Photo: GeographBot · CC BY-SA 2.0
About this Munro
Spidean Coire nan Clach (Beinn Eighe) is a Munro rising to 993m near Torridon. It is a serious and committing mountain day requiring experience. Weather and visibility can significantly affect the experience.
The Climb
The ascent of Spidean Coire nan Clach is one of the most serious undertakings in Torridon, demanding both stamina and…
The Climb
The ascent of Spidean Coire nan Clach is one of the most serious undertakings in Torridon, demanding both stamina and…
The ascent of Spidean Coire nan Clach is one of the most serious undertakings in Torridon, demanding both stamina and mountain experience. Setting out from Glen Torridon Car Park, you will face a committing 26.1 kilometer route that traverses some of Scotland's most rugged terrain. The path quality varies considerably, with sections of good track giving way to steep, rocky scrambles as you approach the upper slopes. The gradient intensifies as you climb toward Spidean Coire nan Clach, particularly when navigating the corrie itself. The terrain here lives up to its Gaelic name, with boulder fields and scree that require careful foot placement. This is not a mountain to be underestimated. The 5 out of 5 difficulty rating reflects the technical demands and sustained effort required throughout this expedition. Moderate bog levels on the lower approach add to the challenge during wet conditions.
When to Climb
Timing your ascent of Spidean Coire nan Clach requires careful consideration of the Torridon environment and the…
When to Climb
Timing your ascent of Spidean Coire nan Clach requires careful consideration of the Torridon environment and the…
Timing your ascent of Spidean Coire nan Clach requires careful consideration of the Torridon environment and the mountain's considerable altitude of 993 meters. Late spring through early autumn offers the most stable conditions, though weather in this region can change rapidly at any time of year. Summer provides maximum daylight hours, which you will need for the 7.3 to 9.5 hour expedition. The western Scottish Highlands experience high rainfall, and Spidean Coire nan Clach often sits shrouded in cloud. Winter ascents are strictly for experienced mountaineers with appropriate equipment and skills. Visibility is critical on this peak, as navigation across the boulder-strewn upper reaches becomes treacherous in mist. September can offer excellent clarity and settled weather, though daylight begins to shorten. Always check the mountain forecast before committing to Spidean Coire nan Clach, as conditions at summit level differ dramatically from those in the glen.
Getting There
Access to Spidean Coire nan Clach begins at Glen Torridon Car Park, the starting point for this epic mountain journey.…
Getting There
Access to Spidean Coire nan Clach begins at Glen Torridon Car Park, the starting point for this epic mountain journey.…
Access to Spidean Coire nan Clach begins at Glen Torridon Car Park, the starting point for this epic mountain journey. This car park is located along the A896 road that runs through Glen Torridon, one of Scotland's most spectacular glens. The approach from Kinlochewe or Shieldaig brings you through stunning Highland scenery, though the single-track sections require careful driving. Parking facilities at Glen Torridon Car Park are adequate but can fill quickly during peak season, so an early start is advisable for multiple reasons. The road access is generally good year-round, though winter conditions may require appropriate vehicle preparation. From the car park, the commitment to Spidean Coire nan Clach begins immediately, with no easy escape routes once you are deep into the corrie. Mobile phone signal is unreliable throughout the area, so ensure someone knows your intended route and expected return time.
At the Summit
Reaching the summit of Spidean Coire nan Clach at 993 meters is a hard-won achievement. The summit area itself is a…
At the Summit
Reaching the summit of Spidean Coire nan Clach at 993 meters is a hard-won achievement. The summit area itself is a…
Reaching the summit of Spidean Coire nan Clach at 993 meters is a hard-won achievement. The summit area itself is a rocky, exposed platform that provides little natural shelter from the elements. What it lacks in comfort, it more than compensates for with views that rank among the finest in Scotland. On clear days, the panorama encompasses the entire Torridon range, with jagged peaks stretching in every direction. The quartzite cap that characterizes Beinn Eighe reflects the light with an almost ethereal quality. The summit of Spidean Coire nan Clach offers a genuine sense of remoteness and wild grandeur. Wind is a near-constant companion at this altitude, so bring extra layers even on seemingly calm days in the glen. The rocky nature of the summit requires care when moving about, particularly in wet or icy conditions. Take time to appreciate your surroundings before beginning the long descent back to Glen Torridon.
Wildlife & Nature
The environment surrounding Spidean Coire nan Clach showcases the remarkable biodiversity of the Torridon mountains. On…
Wildlife & Nature
The environment surrounding Spidean Coire nan Clach showcases the remarkable biodiversity of the Torridon mountains. On…
The environment surrounding Spidean Coire nan Clach showcases the remarkable biodiversity of the Torridon mountains. On your approach through the lower glen, you may spot red deer grazing on the hillsides, particularly during early morning or evening hours. Golden eagles patrol the skies above the corries, and ravens are frequent companions on the upper slopes. The flora changes dramatically with altitude as you climb Spidean Coire nan Clach. Lower elevations feature heather moorland and remnant native woodland fragments, while the middle slopes host alpine plants adapted to harsh conditions. Above 800 meters, vegetation becomes sparse, with only the hardiest mosses and lichens clinging to the quartzite rocks. The boulder fields that give the corrie its name provide habitat for mountain hares, which turn white in winter. During summer, keep watch for ptarmigan on the summit plateau. The unique geology of Spidean Coire nan Clach creates distinct ecosystems at different elevations, each with its specialized inhabitants.
Essential Tips
Safety on Spidean Coire nan Clach cannot be overstated given its 5 out of 5 difficulty rating and serious mountain…
Essential Tips
Safety on Spidean Coire nan Clach cannot be overstated given its 5 out of 5 difficulty rating and serious mountain…
Safety on Spidean Coire nan Clach cannot be overstated given its 5 out of 5 difficulty rating and serious mountain character. Navigation skills and the ability to use map and compass in zero visibility are essential, as GPS cannot be relied upon exclusively. The length of the route means you must carry sufficient food, water, and emergency supplies for a full day in the mountains. Weather conditions can deteriorate rapidly, transforming Spidean Coire nan Clach from challenging to dangerous within minutes. Carry full waterproofs, extra insulation, and a headtorch regardless of the forecast. The boulder fields require concentration and energy, so pace yourself carefully to avoid exhaustion. An early start is crucial to ensure sufficient daylight hours for the descent. Winter conditions on Spidean Coire nan Clach demand ice axe, crampons, and winter mountaineering experience. Mobile signal is absent, so a personal locator beacon provides valuable insurance. This mountain rewards respect and careful preparation while punishing overconfidence.
Nearby Munros in Torridon
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Routes & Navigation
1 route available for Spidean Coire nan Clach (Beinn Eighe). Download the app for GPS tracks and live conditions.
Beinn Eighe from Coire Mhic Fhearchair
Very Hard7.3–9.5h round trip26.1km distance
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about climbing Spidean Coire nan Clach (Beinn Eighe).
How tall is Spidean Coire nan Clach (Beinn Eighe)?
Spidean Coire nan Clach (Beinn Eighe) stands at 993 metres (3,258 feet), making it the 156th tallest of all 282 Munros in Scotland.
What does Spidean Coire nan Clach (Beinn Eighe) mean in Gaelic?
The name Spidean Coire nan Clach (Beinn Eighe) translates from Scottish Gaelic as “Peak of the Corrie of Stones”.
How long does it take to climb Spidean Coire nan Clach (Beinn Eighe)?
Depending on the route and conditions, climbing Spidean Coire nan Clach (Beinn Eighe) typically takes between 7.3 and 9.5 hours round trip. The Munros app provides detailed time estimates for each route.
Where do I park for Spidean Coire nan Clach (Beinn Eighe)?
The nearest parking for Spidean Coire nan Clach (Beinn Eighe) is at Glen Torridon Car Park. Check the Munros app for detailed parking coordinates and live conditions.
How difficult is Spidean Coire nan Clach (Beinn Eighe) to climb?
Spidean Coire nan Clach (Beinn Eighe) is rated Very Hard (difficulty 5/5). Route difficulty varies — check the Munros app for detailed ratings on each route.