Map & Elevation
About this Route
This GPX approaches Cìr Mhòr from Glen Rosa, climbing to The Saddle before turning onto the mountain's south-west ridge. The out-and-back route is 15.5 km with about 830 m of ascent. Allow 6 to 8 hours: much of the distance lies in the long glen approach, while the final climb is steep, rough and slow.
From the Glen Rosa campsite area, follow the track north beside the river into the heart of the glen. The walking is gentle at first, passing through open ground beneath Goatfell and Beinn a' Chliabhain. Beyond the main footbridge the path becomes rougher, with burns to cross and boggy patches after rain. At the head of the glen, climb to The Saddle between Cìr Mhòr and North Goatfell. Turn north-west here and follow the narrowing ridge towards Cìr Mhòr. The upper section is rocky and steep, with hands useful in places, but this route avoids the harder scrambling on A' Chìr.
Return to The Saddle and retrace Glen Rosa to the start. This GPX does not continue over Caisteal Abhail or make the full horseshoe. The mountain is exceptionally rugged for its height, and cloud can hide the junction at The Saddle as well as the correct descent into Glen Rosa. Carry a map and compass, allow plenty of daylight and be prepared to turn around if wet rock, wind or poor visibility makes the upper ridge uncomfortable.
Glen Rosa gives Cìr Mhòr a long approach, but it also shows the mountain from its most impressive side.
TrailTrack
Route Waypoints
Begin near Glen Rosa campsite and take the track into the glen. Parking is limited, so keep access clear and follow local signs.
Continue north beside the river on the broad approach track. This easy ground accounts for much of the outward distance.
Cross the bridge and stay with the path deeper into the glen. Check water levels before relying on any smaller burn crossings ahead.
The path narrows and becomes rougher and wetter. Continue towards the obvious col at the head of the glen.
Begin the steeper ascent to the col. Loose stones and wet rock make this section tiring late in the day.
At the col, turn north-west for Cìr Mhòr. Memorise this junction for the return, particularly if cloud is building.
Reach the rocky summit at 799 m by the steep south-west ridge. Avoid continuing towards Caisteal Abhail or A' Chìr.
Descend to The Saddle, turn back into Glen Rosa and retrace the full approach to the campsite.
Follow the worn line through steep grass and granite. The path is intermittent and hands are needed on short rock steps.
The ground becomes rockier and more exposed. Look back to fix the line to The Saddle before completing the climb.
Reach the small 799 m summit. Return by the south ridge; do not continue towards A’ Chìr or Caisteal Abhail.
Descend to The Saddle, follow the glen path south, recross Garbh Allt and return along the main track.
Essential Tips
The first and last kilometres are easy but time-consuming. Start early and carry a head torch in case the upper ridge takes longer than expected.
Side burns in Glen Rosa can rise after heavy rain. If a crossing looks unsafe, do not force it.
The col is the key navigation point on both ascent and descent. Note its bearing and surrounding ground before climbing to the summit.
A' Chìr and parts of the Arran ridges involve serious scrambling. Stay with this GPX and return the way you came.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need scrambling experience to climb Cìr Mhòr?
Yes. The south ridge has steep, exposed rock that requires hands and is not suitable for walkers without scrambling experience.
Can I continue from Cìr Mhòr summit to A' Chìr?
No, don't continue to A' Chìr or Caisteal Abhail from the summit. Those ridges contain much harder ground — you must return to The Saddle by the same route you came up.
Where do I start the Cìr Mhòr walk on Arran?
Start at the end of the Glen Rosa road, where there's a small parking area. From there, follow the main track north through the glen.