Fort William

Garbh Chioch Mhòr

1,013 metres · 1 detailed route

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Sgùrr nan Coireachan (Glen Dessary) · Garbh Chioch Mhòr · Sgùrr na Cìche

Glen Dessary Munros

ScramblingGrade details

Grades describe the named technical sections, not every metre of the route.

Route overview

This demanding, high-level circuit tackles three rugged Munros at the remote head of Loch Arkaig. Featuring Sgùrr nan Coireachan, Garbh Chioch Mhòr, and the iconic peak of Sgùrr na Cìche, the route offers exceptionally wild ridge walking. It is a long, physically taxing day out in the Rough Bounds of Knoydart, rewarded with spectacular views over Loch Nevis.

Terrain and underfoot

The terrain is highly varied and physically demanding. Lower glen approaches feature boggy paths, while the high ridges are exceptionally rough, rocky, and complex, requiring careful navigation. Ascents and descents are sustained and very steep, particularly the initial climb and the descent from Feadan na Cìche, which involves minor scrambling down a steep, rocky ravine. The crossing of the Allt Coire nan Uth can be difficult in spate.

Distance
26.2 km
Ascent
1,681 m
Typical time
8.5 - 10.5 hoursStandard moving time
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Munros
3

Getting there and parking

Driving and parking

Strathan, Loch Arkaig road-end car park

The walking start is at the car park at the end of the public road along Loch Arkaig. The long single-track approach needs care; keep entrances, tracks and the turning aisle clear.

Dedicated gravel parking beside the road junction. Park around the perimeter and keep central circulation clear.

Approximately 15 to 25 cars

Walking approach and return
There is no established public bus along Loch Arkaig to this start. Arrange the full outward and return journey.
Sources checked 2 October 2026

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On foot

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Guidebook & paper maps

The Munros

Scottish Mountaineering Club · 4th edition (2021)

  • M116 · p. 226
View on Amazon (paid link)

Walking the Munros · Volume 2

Cicerone

Northern Highlands and the Cairngorms

  • Guide route 20 · p. 106

Latest edition: 4th (2022). Edition of page references unconfirmed.

View on Amazon (paid link)

The Munro Almanac

Cameron McNeish · 2011

Knoydart and Loch Quoich

  • Munro description · p. 85

100 Best Routes on Scottish Mountains

Ralph Storer · 1997

Sgurr na Ciche and Garbh Chioch MhorGuide route 35 · p. 76

Page numbers vary by edition.

OS Explorer · 1:25,000
  • 398Loch Morar & Mallaig
OS Landranger · 1:50,000
  • 33Loch Alsh, Glen Shiel & Loch Hourn

Summit locations only, not the approach or return route.

Check sheets with Ordnance Survey

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Mountain planning note

Route times and descriptions are planning estimates. Recheck mountain weather, access, daylight, river levels and your own experience before setting out.