Càrn nan Gobhar (Loch Mullardoch)
992m
Loch Ness
“Cairn of the Goats”
992mHeight
48kmRound trip
11.2–14.6hWalk time
HardDifficulty 4/5
Overview
About this Munro
Càrn nan Gobhar (Loch Mullardoch) is a 992m Munro in the Loch Ness region, its Gaelic name meaning “cairn of the goats”. It stands 157th of the 282 Munros by height. The usual ascent — Loch Mullardoch Munros circuit — is a 48km round trip taking 11.2–14.6 hours, rated hard (4/5).
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Routes & Navigation
There is 1 route to the summit of Càrn nan Gobhar (Loch Mullardoch), covering 48km.
Route preview
Loch Mullardoch Munros circuit
Hard11.2–14.6h round trip48km distance↑794m ascent
Bog ratingBoggy
ParkingGlen Affric Road End
Step-by-step guideIn the app
Climbing Càrn nan Gobhar (Loch Mullardoch)
The ascent of Càrn nan Gobhar as part of the Loch Mullardoch circuit represents one of Scotland's most demanding…
Climbing Càrn nan Gobhar (Loch Mullardoch)
The ascent of Càrn nan Gobhar as part of the Loch Mullardoch circuit represents one of Scotland's most demanding…
The ascent of Càrn nan Gobhar as part of the Loch Mullardoch circuit represents one of Scotland's most demanding single-day expeditions. This epic 48-kilometre route requires eleven to fourteen hours of sustained effort across remote, pathless terrain. From Glen Affric Road End, you'll embark on a journey that tests physical fitness, mental resilience, and navigation skills in equal measure.
The terrain is characteristically west Highland: wet, boggy, and largely pathless, with the 4/5 bog level meaning you'll be navigating saturated ground for much of the day. Càrn nan Gobhar at 992 metres sits amidst a complex landscape of multiple summits, corries, and ridges where route-finding demands constant attention. The gradient varies throughout this enormous circuit, with steep sections interspersed with gentler terrain across the broad ridges.
This is remote hillwalking at its most serious—limited escape routes mean commitment once you've ventured beyond the initial miles. The name 'Cairn of the Goats' barely hints at the wild, challenging nature of this magnificent expedition.
Best Time to Climb Càrn nan Gobhar (Loch Mullardoch)
The Loch Mullardoch circuit including Càrn nan Gobhar demands near-perfect conditions given its extreme length and…
Best Time to Climb Càrn nan Gobhar (Loch Mullardoch)
The Loch Mullardoch circuit including Càrn nan Gobhar demands near-perfect conditions given its extreme length and…
The Loch Mullardoch circuit including Càrn nan Gobhar demands near-perfect conditions given its extreme length and remote nature. Midsummer offers the only realistic window for most hillwalkers, with the longest daylight hours essential for completing 48 kilometres across difficult terrain. Even a 5am start can see you finishing after 7pm during this marathon day.
The west coast location means high rainfall is common, with the 4/5 bog level becoming even worse during or after wet periods. Late spring through early autumn provides the most reliable weather, though you should monitor forecasts carefully for several days before committing to this expedition. Winter attempts are exceptionally serious, reserved for elite mountaineers with winter camping equipment or extraordinary speed and fitness.
Cloud and mist can persist for days in this region, making navigation across the complex terrain extremely challenging. Consider this route only when a multi-day high-pressure system is established, and be prepared to postpone if conditions deteriorate—retreat options are limited once you're deep into the circuit around Càrn nan Gobhar.
Getting to Càrn nan Gobhar (Loch Mullardoch)
Access to Càrn nan Gobhar begins at Glen Affric Road End, reached via a long, single-track road from Cannich. The drive…
Getting to Càrn nan Gobhar (Loch Mullardoch)
Access to Càrn nan Gobhar begins at Glen Affric Road End, reached via a long, single-track road from Cannich. The drive…
Access to Càrn nan Gobhar begins at Glen Affric Road End, reached via a long, single-track road from Cannich. The drive itself is spectacular but time-consuming, with passing places requiring careful attention as you wind deeper into Glen Affric. The parking area offers basic facilities with space for numerous vehicles, though the remote location means you'll share it with backpackers and other hillwalkers attempting various routes.
From Inverness, allow at least 90 minutes to reach the start, longer if you encounter slow tourist traffic on the narrow roads. The nearest substantial services are in Cannich, so ensure you have all necessary supplies before venturing into the glen. Mobile signal is patchy even at the car park and becomes non-existent once you set off toward Càrn nan Gobhar.
The remote location and extreme distance of the Loch Mullardoch circuit mean early starts are essential—many hillwalkers begin before dawn to maximise daylight hours. The dramatic scenery surrounding the parking area provides a fitting gateway to one of Scotland's wildest mountain expeditions.
Càrn nan Gobhar (Loch Mullardoch) Summit
The summit of Càrn nan Gobhar at 992 metres provides a brief respite during the marathon Loch Mullardoch circuit. The…
Càrn nan Gobhar (Loch Mullardoch) Summit
The summit of Càrn nan Gobhar at 992 metres provides a brief respite during the marathon Loch Mullardoch circuit. The…
The summit of Càrn nan Gobhar at 992 metres provides a brief respite during the marathon Loch Mullardoch circuit. The top is characteristically rounded with a cairn marking the highest point, though the exposed position offers little shelter from the winds that frequently sweep these remote heights. The terrain consists of stones, gravel, and hardy grasses, with the vegetation cropped by wind and altitude.
Looking around from Càrn nan Gobhar, you'll appreciate both the achievement of reaching this remote summit and the scale of terrain still to cover. The views extend across the wild country surrounding Loch Mullardoch, with multiple summits and ridges creating a complex mountain landscape. On clear days, distant peaks fill every horizon, reminding you of just how deep into the Scottish Highlands you've ventured.
The summit area feels genuinely remote—few people reach Càrn nan Gobhar given the commitment required, making this a special place for those who do. Don't linger too long; the many kilometres remaining demand you keep moving to complete the circuit in daylight.
Wildlife on Càrn nan Gobhar (Loch Mullardoch)
Càrn nan Gobhar and the surrounding Loch Mullardoch wilderness support some of Scotland's wildest and least disturbed…
Wildlife on Càrn nan Gobhar (Loch Mullardoch)
Càrn nan Gobhar and the surrounding Loch Mullardoch wilderness support some of Scotland's wildest and least disturbed…
Càrn nan Gobhar and the surrounding Loch Mullardoch wilderness support some of Scotland's wildest and least disturbed Highland ecosystems. Red deer roam freely across these remote hills, often in larger herds than more accessible mountains, and you'll likely encounter them throughout the day. The area's remoteness means golden eagles are frequently seen, with several breeding territories in the surrounding glens and corries.
The west coast location brings higher rainfall than eastern mountains, supporting lush moss growth on the lower slopes and rich lichen communities on the rocks. The extensive bogs host unique plant communities including sphagnum mosses, cotton grass, and insectivorous sundews that thrive in the saturated soils. At higher elevations around Càrn nan Gobhar, the vegetation transitions to montane heath with hardy species adapted to exposure and thin soils.
Ptarmigan inhabit the summit ridges above 900 metres, while mountain hares browse across the hillsides. The remote nature of this circuit means you may encounter pine martens or wildcats in the lower glens, though sightings of these elusive species require luck.
Càrn nan Gobhar (Loch Mullardoch) Tips
The Loch Mullardoch circuit including Càrn nan Gobhar is among Scotland's most serious single-day hillwalking…
Càrn nan Gobhar (Loch Mullardoch) Tips
The Loch Mullardoch circuit including Càrn nan Gobhar is among Scotland's most serious single-day hillwalking…
The Loch Mullardoch circuit including Càrn nan Gobhar is among Scotland's most serious single-day hillwalking expeditions and demands exceptional preparation. Navigation skills must be expert-level—the complex terrain, multiple summits, and pathless ground require constant attention, while poor visibility could lead to serious difficulties in this remote location.
Carry comprehensive emergency equipment including bivvy bag, comprehensive first aid kit, headtorch with spare batteries, and emergency food beyond normal requirements. The 48-kilometre distance means you'll need substantial food and water; while streams are available, carry purification equipment and drink frequently to maintain energy levels. The 4/5 bog level makes waterproof boots and gaiters essential.
Mobile signal is non-existent throughout the circuit, so inform someone of your detailed route and expected return time. Consider carrying a satellite communication device given the extreme remoteness. Most importantly, be prepared to turn back—attempting Càrn nan Gobhar in deteriorating conditions or when behind schedule could lead to benightment in extremely remote terrain. This expedition is only for highly experienced, exceptionally fit hillwalkers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about climbing Càrn nan Gobhar (Loch Mullardoch).
How tall is Càrn nan Gobhar (Loch Mullardoch)?
Càrn nan Gobhar (Loch Mullardoch) stands at 992 metres (3,255 feet), making it the 157th tallest of all 282 Munros in Scotland.
What does Càrn nan Gobhar (Loch Mullardoch) mean in Gaelic?
The name Càrn nan Gobhar (Loch Mullardoch) translates from Scottish Gaelic as “Cairn of the Goats”.
How long does it take to climb Càrn nan Gobhar (Loch Mullardoch)?
Climbing Càrn nan Gobhar (Loch Mullardoch) typically takes between 11.2 and 14.6 hours round trip. This varies with fitness, weather, and the route chosen.
Where do I park for Càrn nan Gobhar (Loch Mullardoch)?
There is dedicated parking at the standard starting point for the main route up Càrn nan Gobhar (Loch 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 Càrn nan Gobhar (Loch Mullardoch) to climb?
Càrn nan Gobhar (Loch Mullardoch) is rated Hard (difficulty 4/5).
What is the best route up Càrn nan Gobhar (Loch Mullardoch)?
The most popular route up Càrn nan Gobhar (Loch Mullardoch) covers 48km, 11.2–14.6 hours round trip.
Is Càrn nan Gobhar (Loch Mullardoch) good for beginners?
Càrn nan Gobhar (Loch Mullardoch) (difficulty 4/5 at 992m) 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 Càrn nan Gobhar (Loch Mullardoch) in?
Càrn nan Gobhar (Loch Mullardoch) is in the Loch Ness region of Scotland. Nearby Munros include An Riabhachan, An Socach (Affric), An Socach (Mullardoch).