This classic horseshoe circuit traverses the high, rocky ridges surrounding the Cruachan Reservoir. Starting near Loch Awe, the route climbs steeply to conquer the dramatic peak of Ben Cruachan before following a rugged, undulating crest over Stob Daimh. It offers a superb, high-level mountain day with expansive views across Argyll and the western seaboard.
Terrain and underfoot
The route features a mixture of steep woodland paths, surfaced reservoir tracks, and rough, eroded mountain trails. The high ridges are rocky with sections of boulders and very straightforward scrambling. Descent from the eastern ridge involves pathless, grassy slopes and a boggy traverse above the reservoir. Good navigation is required on the high plateau and during the pathless descent in poor visibility.
Stay close to the hill
Turn Ben Cruachan into part of a Highland break
Browse handpicked Scottish cottages ranked with cached road times to Munro route starts. Signed-in walkers can prioritise cottages by the hills still missing from their round.
Route times and descriptions are planning estimates. Recheck mountain weather, access, daylight, river levels and your own experience before setting out.