Beinn Achaladair
1,038m
Argyll
“Mountain of the Field by the Hard Water”
1,038mHeight
15.2kmRound trip
7.4–9.6hWalk time
HardDifficulty 4/5
Photo: GeographBot · CC BY-SA 2.0
Overview
About this Munro
Beinn Achaladair is a 1,038m Munro in the Argyll region, its Gaelic name meaning “mountain of the field by the hard water”. It stands 98th of the 282 Munros by height. The usual ascent — Beinn Achaladair and Beinn a' Chreachain from Glen Lochay — is a 15.2km round trip taking 7.4–9.6 hours, rated hard (4/5).
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Routes & Navigation
There are 2 routes to the summit of Beinn Achaladair, ranging from 15.2km.
Route preview
Beinn Achaladair and Beinn a' Chreachain from Glen Lochay
Hard7.4–9.6h round trip15.2km distance↑830m ascent
Bog ratingModerate
ParkingAchallader Farm
Step-by-step guideIn the app
Route preview
Beinn a' Chreachain and Beinn Achaladair from Glen Lochay
Hard7.4–9.6h round trip15.2km distance↑830m ascent
Bog ratingModerate
ParkingGlen Lochay Car Park
Step-by-step guideIn the app
Climbing Beinn Achaladair
The ascent of Beinn Achaladair from either Achallader Farm or Glen Lochay Car Park covers 15.2 kilometres of demanding…
Climbing Beinn Achaladair
The ascent of Beinn Achaladair from either Achallader Farm or Glen Lochay Car Park covers 15.2 kilometres of demanding…
The ascent of Beinn Achaladair from either Achallader Farm or Glen Lochay Car Park covers 15.2 kilometres of demanding terrain to reach the 1038-metre summit. The route involves sustained climbing with sections of moderate bog, particularly in the lower portions where the 3/5 bog rating means you'll need to pick your line carefully.
As you gain height on Beinn Achaladair, the terrain becomes progressively steeper and more complex. The 4/5 difficulty rating reflects both the technical nature of the upper mountain and the sustained effort required over 7.4 to 9.6 hours. The paths are not always clear, and in places you'll be navigating across trackless ground where route-finding skills are essential. This is a serious mountain expedition that rewards experienced walkers with a genuine sense of achievement.
Best Time to Climb Beinn Achaladair
Beinn Achaladair is best climbed between May and September when you have sufficient daylight for the lengthy expedition…
Best Time to Climb Beinn Achaladair
Beinn Achaladair is best climbed between May and September when you have sufficient daylight for the lengthy expedition…
Beinn Achaladair is best climbed between May and September when you have sufficient daylight for the lengthy expedition and the most stable weather patterns. The Argyll location means this mountain sits in the path of Atlantic weather systems, so even in summer you should expect changeability.
Plan your ascent of Beinn Achaladair during a period of high pressure for the best chance of clear summit views and manageable conditions. The altitude of 1038 metres means the summit can be dramatically colder and windier than the valley, even in midsummer. Winter ascents require full winter mountaineering skills, and the long approach becomes significantly more serious when dealing with snow and ice.
Autumn can offer stunning conditions with clear air, though daylight hours begin to shorten and you'll need an early start.
Getting to Beinn Achaladair
Beinn Achaladair can be approached from either Achallader Farm or Glen Lochay Car Park. Achallader Farm is accessed from…
Getting to Beinn Achaladair
Beinn Achaladair can be approached from either Achallader Farm or Glen Lochay Car Park. Achallader Farm is accessed from…
Beinn Achaladair can be approached from either Achallader Farm or Glen Lochay Car Park. Achallader Farm is accessed from the A82 near Bridge of Orchy, where you'll find a parking area suitable for hillwalkers. The approach from this direction is relatively straightforward in terms of road access.
Alternatively, Glen Lochay Car Park requires driving along the single-track road from Killin into Glen Lochay. This narrow road demands careful driving and passing places must be used courteously. Both approaches involve some remote driving, so ensure your vehicle is reliable and you have adequate fuel. The nearest substantial facilities are in Bridge of Orchy or Killin, where you can stock up on supplies before heading into the mountains.
Beinn Achaladair Summit
The summit of Beinn Achaladair at 1038 metres is a satisfying destination, marked by a prominent cairn that signals your…
Beinn Achaladair Summit
The summit of Beinn Achaladair at 1038 metres is a satisfying destination, marked by a prominent cairn that signals your…
The summit of Beinn Achaladair at 1038 metres is a satisfying destination, marked by a prominent cairn that signals your arrival at the top. The summit area is rocky and exposed, offering sweeping views across the Argyll mountains when weather conditions cooperate.
On clear days from Beinn Achaladair, you'll appreciate the mountainous landscape surrounding this substantial peak. The summit provides little shelter from the prevailing winds, so be prepared for blustery conditions even when the valleys are calm. In poor visibility, the summit area of Beinn Achaladair requires careful navigation, as the complex topography can make finding the correct descent route challenging.
Take time to properly identify your intended direction before leaving the cairn.
Wildlife on Beinn Achaladair
The lower slopes of Beinn Achaladair support typical Highland vegetation including heather, bilberry, and rough grasses…
Wildlife on Beinn Achaladair
The lower slopes of Beinn Achaladair support typical Highland vegetation including heather, bilberry, and rough grasses…
The lower slopes of Beinn Achaladair support typical Highland vegetation including heather, bilberry, and rough grasses where red deer graze throughout the year. The moderate bog sections you'll cross support specialized plant communities adapted to waterlogged conditions.
As you climb higher on Beinn Achaladair, the vegetation becomes progressively more sparse and wind-sculpted. Above 900 metres, you enter the montane zone where only the hardiest alpine plants survive. Mountain hare inhabit these higher elevations, their coats turning white in winter for camouflage against the snow. Golden eagles may be spotted riding the thermals, and ravens are commonly heard calling across the mountainside.
The relatively remote nature of this peak means wildlife encounters are often more intimate than on busier mountains.
Beinn Achaladair Tips
The 4/5 difficulty rating for Beinn Achaladair demands that you come properly equipped and experienced. Carry full…
Beinn Achaladair Tips
The 4/5 difficulty rating for Beinn Achaladair demands that you come properly equipped and experienced. Carry full…
The 4/5 difficulty rating for Beinn Achaladair demands that you come properly equipped and experienced. Carry full navigation equipment including map, compass, GPS, and the skills to use them effectively. The 3/5 bog rating means waterproof boots are essential, and gaiters will significantly improve your comfort.
Pack plenty of food and water for the 7.4 to 9.6-hour expedition, as there are limited reliable water sources on some sections of the route. Weather at over 1000 metres can be dramatically different from valley conditions, so carry warm layers, waterproofs, and hat and gloves regardless of the forecast. Mobile phone signal is unreliable in this remote area, so ensure someone knows your planned route and estimated return time.
The commitment required for Beinn Achaladair means you should assess your fitness honestly before setting out.
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Nearby Munros in Argyll
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about climbing Beinn Achaladair.
How tall is Beinn Achaladair?
Beinn Achaladair stands at 1,038 metres (3,406 feet), making it the 98th tallest of all 282 Munros in Scotland.
What does Beinn Achaladair mean in Gaelic?
The name Beinn Achaladair translates from Scottish Gaelic as “Mountain of the Field by the Hard Water”.
How long does it take to climb Beinn Achaladair?
Climbing Beinn Achaladair typically takes between 7.4 and 9.6 hours round trip. This varies with fitness, weather, and the route chosen — there are 2 routes to the summit.
Where do I park for Beinn Achaladair?
There is dedicated parking at the standard starting point for the main route up Beinn Achaladair, in the Argyll area. The exact car park location, map pin and arrival guidance are in the free Munros app.
How difficult is Beinn Achaladair to climb?
Beinn Achaladair is rated Hard (difficulty 4/5). Route difficulty varies across the 2 available routes.
What is the best route up Beinn Achaladair?
The most popular route up Beinn Achaladair covers 15.2km, 7.4–9.6 hours round trip. There are 2 routes to the summit in total, ranging from Hard to Hard difficulty.
Is Beinn Achaladair good for beginners?
Beinn Achaladair (difficulty 4/5 at 1,038m) is best suited to experienced hillwalkers in the Argyll area. Expect sustained steep terrain and the need for confident navigation in poor visibility.
What region is Beinn Achaladair in?
Beinn Achaladair is in the Argyll region of Scotland. Nearby Munros include Beinn a' Chlèibh, Beinn a' Chochuill, Beinn a' Chreachain.