Map & Elevation
About this Route
This GPX is a severe 7.4 km out-and-back from the A896 near Glen Cottage to Spidean a' Choire Léith, Liathach's 1,055 m high point, with 1,208 m of ascent. A steep stalkers' path climbs north through Toll a' Meitheach to the eastern ridge, then the line turns west across rough, undulating sandstone and quartzite terrain before the final loose summit cone. Return by the identical route. The GPX does not cross the exposed Am Fasarinen pinnacles or continue to Mullach an Rathain. Even without that traverse, this is a very steep, exposed and navigationally serious Torridon mountain day for experienced hillwalkers.
The ascent from Glen Torridon is relentless, with little easy ground between the road and high ridge. Torridon sandstone terraces can hide the continuation of the stalkers' path, especially on descent, and the loose quartzite near the summit needs patience. The eastern ridge is the turning point for this guide: the Am Fasarinen pinnacles lie beyond Spidean and are not included. Carry enough water, as there is no dependable supply once high on the ridge. The roadside start also has very limited parking space.
The mountain is exceptionally well defended by cliffs and buttresses.
Walkhighlands
Route Waypoints
Start from the roadside parking near Glen Cottage, grid reference NG 936 566. Locate the path on the north side of the A896 and follow it immediately uphill; take care beside the road and do not obstruct passing places.
Climb relentlessly on the narrow stalkers' path through sandstone terraces. The ground is steep, eroded and rough in places, with hands useful for balance; pause to confirm the descent line behind you.
Gain the high eastern ridge at roughly 830 m. Turn west and follow the GPX over complex, undulating ridge terrain; in cloud, do not stray north or south onto the mountain's defended crags and terraces.
Climb the loose quartzite summit cone to Liathach's 1,055 m high point. This GPX turns around here: do not continue west towards Am Fasarinen and Mullach an Rathain unless separately equipped and committed to the full traverse.
Descend the loose quartzite carefully and regain the eastern ridge. Keep away from the westward line towards the pinnacles.
Locate the stalkers' path dropping towards Toll a' Meitheach. In mist, take a bearing before leaving the ridge.
Continue down the steep terraces to Glen Torridon. Avoid shortcuts across loose sandstone and finish at the original A896 lay-by.
Retrace the same GPX east along the ridge and descend Toll a' Meitheach to Glen Torridon. The steep path is demanding when tired; avoid shortcuts across loose terraces and finish at the original lay-by.
Essential Tips
Liathach rises extremely steeply above the glen. Be confident on exposed, loose ground and able to navigate precisely with map and compass. A slip or route-finding error can have serious consequences.
The GPX-based estimate is 3 hours 29 minutes, not a promise. Many parties will need substantially longer for 1,208 m of ascent, rough ground, careful descent, breaks and changing weather; carry a headtorch.
Low cloud makes the complex ridge and descent line hard to identify, while rain and wind worsen loose, exposed ground. Check a mountain forecast and reverse early if visibility, footing or confidence deteriorates.
Snow and ice turn this route into a winter mountaineering undertaking. An ice axe and crampons are useful only with the training to use them; if you lack winter skills, choose a lower objective.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the GPX statistics for this Liathach route?
The supplied GPX is 7.4 km out and back with 1,208 m of ascent. TrailTrack's pace estimate is 3 hours 29 minutes, but most parties should allow additional time for the very steep, rough terrain.
Does this route cross the Am Fasarinen pinnacles?
No. It reaches Spidean a' Choire Léith from the east and returns the same way. It does not continue across Am Fasarinen to Mullach an Rathain, although the route remains severe and exposed.
Where does this Liathach route start and which map covers it?
It starts at the A896 Glen Cottage lay-by in Glen Torridon, grid reference NG 936 566. Use OS Explorer 433 and carry a compass plus an offline copy of the GPX.