Map & Elevation
About this Route
This GPX climbs Dùn da Ghaoithe from Upper Achnacroish on the track serving the television masts, then follows the broad ridge to the summit. The out-and-back is 14.9 km with about 902 m of ascent. Allow 5 to 7 hours; much of the approach is on a track, but the high ridge is exposed and requires reliable navigation.
From the start near the former bird-of-prey centre, follow the access track uphill through forestry and onto open ground. The gradient is steady and the track makes rapid height, passing infrastructure before reaching the mast area on Sgùrr Dearg. Leave the installations by the mapped ridge line and continue north-east over broad, stony ground. The route undulates before the final rise to Dùn da Ghaoithe's summit at 766 m, Mull's only Corbett. In clear weather there are extensive views over the Sound of Mull and towards Ben More.
Return to Upper Achnacroish by the same ridge and mast track. This GPX does not descend to Scallastle, so do not be drawn onto paths leaving the summit in that direction. Cloud makes the broad ridge and numerous tracks around the masts confusing, while wind can be severe above the tree line. Keep outside fenced compounds, give service vehicles room and take an accurate bearing before leaving the summit.
There are two main ways to get to the summit, the first being the track up to the TV masts.
Visit Mull & Iona
Route Waypoints
Start by the access track near the former bird-of-prey centre. Park only where permitted and keep the track clear for estate and service vehicles.
Follow the main uphill track through forestry. Ignore smaller extraction tracks and stay with the GPX at bends.
Leave the trees and continue on the exposed service track. The gradient remains steady and there is little shelter from wind.
Pass communications infrastructure without entering fenced areas. Vehicles may use the road, so keep to one side.
Near the upper installations, locate the ridge route continuing north-east. This junction can be confusing in cloud.
Follow the undulating ridge over stones and short rises. Take care not to drift down towards Scallastle.
Reach the summit cairn at 766 m. Take a checked bearing back along the south-west ridge before leaving.
Retrace the ridge to the masts, then follow the service track downhill to the start.
Essential Tips
The track serves working communications equipment. Do not park across gates and step aside promptly for authorised vehicles.
Tracks and fences create misleading lines near Sgùrr Dearg. Use the map and GPX to find the correct north-east ridge.
That is a different and more demanding route. Return to Upper Achnacroish exactly as shown.
Dùn da Ghaoithe means fort of the two winds. Check gust forecasts and turn back if progress on the open ridge becomes unsafe.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to climb Dùn da Ghaoithe?
Allow 5 to 7 hours for the full out-and-back route. Much of the approach is on a service track, but navigation on the exposed high ridge takes time, especially in poor weather.
Where do I park for the Dùn da Ghaoithe hike?
Park near Upper Achnacroish by the former bird-of-prey centre, but only where permitted. Keep the access track completely clear because it serves working communications equipment and service vehicles need access.
Is Dùn da Ghaoithe suitable for beginners?
No, it's graded as strenuous. The exposed ridge requires reliable navigation skills, and winds can be severe above the tree line — the mountain's name literally means 'fort of the two winds'.