Map & Elevation
About this Route
This GPX follows the main east-ridge path from Braes of Foss to Schiehallion and returns the same way. It covers 10.5 km with about 743 m of ascent, usually taking 4½ to 6 hours. The lower path is excellent, but the final ridge is a long field of quartzite boulders where movement is slower and the route less obvious.
Leave the Braes of Foss car park on the John Muir Trust's realigned mountain path. It climbs steadily through regenerating woodland and open heath, protecting fragile habitats from the severe erosion caused by the old line. Higher up, the maintained path gives way to the rocky east ridge. Follow cairns and the crest west across increasingly large boulders to Schiehallion's summit at 1,083 m. In clear weather there are wide views over Loch Rannoch and the central Highlands.
Return by the same east ridge. This GPX does not descend towards Kinloch Rannoch or make a circuit. The boulder field is tiring and treacherous when wet, icy or snow covered, while cloud can hide the point where the built path resumes. Carry navigation, stay on durable rock and have another plan if the small car park is full.
The main mountain path was realigned onto a more sustainable and less intrusive line.
John Muir Trust
Route Waypoints
Start from the Forestry and Land Scotland car park. Check charges and use a plan B rather than parking along the access track.
Take the signed Schiehallion path, keeping to the maintained line through the lower woodland. The realigned route protects regenerating ground, so avoid the old eroded scars.
Continue on the realigned path as views open behind. Do not use the eroded former route.
Climb steadily towards the narrowing east ridge. Wind becomes more noticeable with height, and this is a good point to reassess cloud or winter conditions.
The constructed path fades into quartzite blocks. Mark this point carefully for the descent, when the lower path can be hard to spot in cloud.
Cross the boulders along the crest, using cairns only as support for map and compass navigation.
Reach the small rocky summit at 1,083 m. Take an eastward return bearing before leaving.
Retrace the boulder ridge and maintained path to the car park. Do not descend from the summit towards Kinloch Rannoch, which is the opposite side of the mountain.
Essential Tips
The John Muir Trust realigned the route to repair erosion and protect rare habitats. Stay on the maintained line.
The final kilometres take time and concentration. Wet or icy quartzite can be extremely slippery.
Record the position where the built path meets the boulder field so you can locate it on descent.
Braes of Foss is small and popular. Do not create unofficial spaces along the narrow access track.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to climb Schiehallion?
It usually takes 4½ to 6 hours for the round trip from Braes of Foss car park. The route covers 10.5 km with 743 m of ascent, but the boulder field near the summit slows you down considerably.
Is Schiehallion suitable for beginners?
No, it's graded as strenuous. The final section is a long field of quartzite boulders that's slow, tiring, and can be treacherous when wet, icy, or snow-covered, requiring good navigation skills.
What should I do if the Braes of Foss car park is full?
Have a plan B ready, as the car park is small and popular. Do not park along the narrow access track, as this creates problems for other users and isn't permitted.