An Socach (Mullardoch)
1,069m
Loch Ness
“The Snout”
1,069mHeight
20.9kmRound trip
7.6–9.9hWalk time
HardDifficulty 4/5
Photo: GeographBot · CC BY-SA 2.0
Overview
About this Munro
An Socach (Mullardoch) is a 1,069m Munro in the Loch Ness region, its Gaelic name meaning “the snout”. It stands 69th of the 282 Munros by height. The usual ascent — An Socach and Mullach na Dheiragain from Loch Mullardoch — is a 20.9km round trip taking 7.6–9.9 hours, rated hard (4/5).
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Routes & Navigation
There is 1 route to the summit of An Socach (Mullardoch), covering 20.9km.
Route preview
An Socach and Mullach na Dheiragain from Loch Mullardoch
Hard7.6–9.9h round trip20.9km distance↑855m ascent
Bog ratingModerate
ParkingMullardoch Dam
Step-by-step guideIn the app
Climbing An Socach (Mullardoch)
An Socach in the Mullardoch area stands at 1069 metres, making it a substantial peak rising from an already remote…
Climbing An Socach (Mullardoch)
An Socach in the Mullardoch area stands at 1069 metres, making it a substantial peak rising from an already remote…
An Socach in the Mullardoch area stands at 1069 metres, making it a substantial peak rising from an already remote location. The route from Loch Mullardoch combining An Socach with Mullach na Dheiragain covers 20.9 kilometres and requires 7.6-9.9 hours, with a difficulty rating of 4/5 reflecting the serious nature of the terrain and location. The bog level of 3/5 means wet sections on the approaches, though conditions are better than the soggiest western mountains.
The name 'The Snout' appears on multiple Scottish mountains, and An Socach (Mullardoch) shares this designation, referring to its distinctive profile from certain viewpoints. The ascent involves sustained climbing from the Mullardoch Dam, and the mountain is often climbed as part of a circuit. The terrain becomes increasingly steep as you approach An Socach's summit, and the remoteness means self-reliance is essential throughout.
Best Time to Climb An Socach (Mullardoch)
An Socach (Mullardoch) is best attempted from late spring through early autumn when daylight hours are generous. The…
Best Time to Climb An Socach (Mullardoch)
An Socach (Mullardoch) is best attempted from late spring through early autumn when daylight hours are generous. The…
An Socach (Mullardoch) is best attempted from late spring through early autumn when daylight hours are generous. The 7.6-9.9 hour route requires decent daylight, making May to September the most practical window for most walkers. The Loch Ness region receives substantial rainfall year-round, and the moderate bog level means wet conditions persist even after dry spells, though An Socach drains better than the soggiest peaks.
Summer offers the longest days and warmest temperatures, crucial for a route this length in such a remote location. June and July provide maximum daylight with nearly 18 hours between sunrise and sunset at this latitude. Autumn can deliver excellent conditions with stable weather and stunning colours, though days shorten rapidly after August. Winter ascents of An Socach (Mullardoch) demand full winter mountaineering skills and experience.
Always study detailed forecasts before attempting this remote mountain—there are limited escape options once committed to the route.
Getting to An Socach (Mullardoch)
Access to An Socach (Mullardoch) begins at Mullardoch Dam, reached via a long, rough track heading west from the Glen…
Getting to An Socach (Mullardoch)
Access to An Socach (Mullardoch) begins at Mullardoch Dam, reached via a long, rough track heading west from the Glen…
Access to An Socach (Mullardoch) begins at Mullardoch Dam, reached via a long, rough track heading west from the Glen Cannich road. The drive itself is an adventure, with the single-track road requiring care and time. Parking is available at the dam, but the remote location means spaces are rarely an issue except on the busiest summer weekends. Cannich, the last settlement with facilities, is approximately 30-40 kilometres to the east.
The approach drive from Cannich takes 45-60 minutes, and the road can be challenging in poor weather or for lower-clearance vehicles. Ensure you have fuel and supplies before leaving Cannich, as there's nothing beyond. The remoteness of An Socach (Mullardoch) means mobile phone coverage is non-existent once you leave the main roads.
Given the 8-10 hour route length, an early start is essential, and you should ensure someone responsible knows your plans and expected return time.
An Socach (Mullardoch) Summit
At 1069 metres, An Socach (Mullardoch) provides a substantial high point and extensive views across the wild landscape…
An Socach (Mullardoch) Summit
At 1069 metres, An Socach (Mullardoch) provides a substantial high point and extensive views across the wild landscape…
At 1069 metres, An Socach (Mullardoch) provides a substantial high point and extensive views across the wild landscape of the North West Highlands. The summit cairn marks a significant achievement after the long approach and sustained climb. The name 'The Snout' becomes apparent from certain angles, where the mountain's distinctive profile stands out against surrounding peaks.
The summit of An Socach offers minimal shelter from the prevailing winds sweeping across this exposed terrain. On clear days, the views are spectacular, extending across some of Scotland's most remote and beautiful mountains. The sense of wilderness is profound—you're many kilometres from the nearest road in any direction.
In poor visibility, navigation becomes challenging with few distinct features, and the exposed position of An Socach (Mullardoch) means weather can deteriorate rapidly. The rocky summit provides reasonable footing, a welcome contrast to the wetter ground on the approaches.
Wildlife on An Socach (Mullardoch)
The remote glens approaching An Socach (Mullardoch) support substantial red deer populations, and encounters are almost…
Wildlife on An Socach (Mullardoch)
The remote glens approaching An Socach (Mullardoch) support substantial red deer populations, and encounters are almost…
The remote glens approaching An Socach (Mullardoch) support substantial red deer populations, and encounters are almost guaranteed during your walk. The wet moorland and moderate bog sections provide breeding habitat for wading birds including golden plover and dunlin, whose calls accompany you through the lower sections. Golden eagles hunt across these mountains, and the remoteness increases your chances of sightings compared to busier areas.
As you climb towards An Socach's 1069-metre summit, heather moorland transitions to montane heath and finally to alpine communities above 900 metres. Ptarmigan nest on the higher slopes, relying on cryptic plumage for protection from predators. Mountain hares are common at higher elevations throughout the year.
The western location of An Socach (Mullardoch) means substantial rainfall creates lush moss growth and the moderate bog conditions, but also supports diverse bryophyte communities and rich alpine flora in sheltered corries.
An Socach (Mullardoch) Tips
An Socach (Mullardoch) demands serious preparation. The 4/5 difficulty rating, 21-kilometre distance, and remote…
An Socach (Mullardoch) Tips
An Socach (Mullardoch) demands serious preparation. The 4/5 difficulty rating, 21-kilometre distance, and remote…
An Socach (Mullardoch) demands serious preparation. The 4/5 difficulty rating, 21-kilometre distance, and remote location mean this is a route for experienced hillwalkers only. Your navigation must be confident and accurate; carry map, compass, and GPS backup with downloaded maps. Phone signal is non-existent throughout the route, so self-reliance is absolute. Carry full emergency equipment including bivvy bag, extra food and clothing, and comprehensive first aid kit.
The moderate bog level still requires waterproof boots and gaiters for comfort and safety. Carry at least 2-3 litres of water or purification capability—mountain streams are available but going off-route to find them wastes time and energy. The length of the route makes blister prevention critical; tape hotspots before they develop into problems. Weather can change rapidly in this region, so carry full waterproofs and warm layers regardless of the forecast.
An Socach (Mullardoch) rewards experience and careful planning but punishes complacency—treat this remote mountain with the respect it demands.
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Nearby Munros in Loch Ness
Explore more peaks near Loch Ness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about climbing An Socach (Mullardoch).
How tall is An Socach (Mullardoch)?
An Socach (Mullardoch) stands at 1,069 metres (3,507 feet), making it the 69th tallest of all 282 Munros in Scotland.
What does An Socach (Mullardoch) mean in Gaelic?
The name An Socach (Mullardoch) translates from Scottish Gaelic as “The Snout”.
How long does it take to climb An Socach (Mullardoch)?
Climbing An Socach (Mullardoch) typically takes between 7.6 and 9.9 hours round trip. This varies with fitness, weather, and the route chosen.
Where do I park for An Socach (Mullardoch)?
There is dedicated parking at the standard starting point for the main route up An Socach (Mullardoch), in the Loch Ness area. The exact car park location, map pin and arrival guidance are in the free Munros app.
How difficult is An Socach (Mullardoch) to climb?
An Socach (Mullardoch) is rated Hard (difficulty 4/5).
What is the best route up An Socach (Mullardoch)?
The most popular route up An Socach (Mullardoch) covers 20.9km, 7.6–9.9 hours round trip.
Is An Socach (Mullardoch) good for beginners?
An Socach (Mullardoch) (difficulty 4/5 at 1,069m) is best suited to experienced hillwalkers in the Loch Ness area. Expect sustained steep terrain and the need for confident navigation in poor visibility.
What region is An Socach (Mullardoch) in?
An Socach (Mullardoch) is in the Loch Ness region of Scotland. Nearby Munros include An Riabhachan, An Socach (Affric), Beinn Fhionnlaidh (Càrn Eige).