Map & Elevation
About this Route
This GPX climbs The Cobbler, or Ben Arthur, from Succoth by the long-established path through Coire a' Bhalachain. It covers 12.7 km and gains 927 m. The approach is clear and well used, but the upper mountain is steep, rocky and more complex than the woodland zigzags at the start.
From Succoth car park, cross the road and take the path into the trees. The broad zigzags gain height steadily before the route leaves the forest and follows the burn into the corrie. Pass the huge Narnain Boulders and continue up the main valley path. At the later fork, turn towards The Cobbler and climb stone steps to the col beneath its three distinctive tops. The GPX reaches the central-peak area, where there are fine views without needing to make the exposed move onto the true summit pinnacle. “Threading the Needle” and climbing the pinnacle are optional scrambling objectives and are not part of this walking guide. Return to Succoth along the same route.
The path is obvious for much of the day, but cloud can make the upper forks and rocky tops confusing. Wet rock, snow or strong wind make the summit area much more serious. If you are not an experienced scrambler, stop at the safe viewpoint before the pinnacle and do not be drawn on by other walkers. Carry normal hill kit and a navigation backup, and allow plenty of time for the long, stony descent past the Narnain Boulders.
The Narnain Boulders feel like a gateway: beyond them, The Cobbler's three rocky tops fill the corrie.
TrailTrack
Route Waypoints
Start at the large car park beside the A83. Cross the road carefully and take the signed path entering the forest.
Follow the broad path through a series of long bends. Ignore narrow shortcuts cutting between the zigzags.
Leave the trees and continue up Coire a' Bhalachain with the burn nearby and the three tops of The Cobbler ahead.
Pass the enormous boulders beside the path. They make a useful sheltered stop, but keep clear of wet or icy overhangs.
Stay with the main valley path until the signed or obvious branch turns towards The Cobbler. Do not drift onto Beinn Narnain's route.
Climb the steep constructed path towards the gap between the north and central tops. Loose gravel may sit on the steps.
Reach the safe high point by the central peak. The exposed true-summit pinnacle and 'Threading the Needle' scramble are not required by this GPX.
Descend by the same stone steps, corrie path and woodland zigzags. Take care crossing the A83 back to the car park.
Essential Tips
The central pinnacle involves an exposed climb through the rock and a difficult move. Stop before it unless you have the experience and conditions for it.
Paths for Beinn Narnain and The Cobbler share the approach. Check the GPX at upper forks, especially in cloud.
There is a long stony descent after the summit. Tighten laces, use poles if you normally do and resist cutting the woodland bends.
Snow or ice transforms the upper rocks and summit pinnacle. Carry suitable winter equipment and skills or choose another day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be a scrambler to climb The Cobbler?
No. The walking route takes you to a safe viewpoint near the central peak with excellent views. The actual summit pinnacle involves an exposed scramble through rock and is optional—only attempt it if you have scrambling experience and good conditions.
How long does it take to walk up The Cobbler from Succoth?
Allow around 4 hours total for the 12.9 km round trip. This includes the ascent of 846m and the long, stony descent back down, so give yourself plenty of time especially for tired legs on the way down.
What are the Narnain Boulders?
They're enormous boulders beside the path at about 3 km into the walk. They make a good sheltered rest stop, but avoid sitting under wet or icy overhangs.