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Beinn Achaladair & Beinn a’Chreachain

Lovely route on good trails that has a bit of everything.

Trail Running Difficult

Distance
22 km
Ascent
1.3 km
Descent
1.3 km
Duration
3-4 hrs
Low Point
172 m
High Point
1.1 km
Gradient
16˚
Beinn Achaladair & Beinn a’Chreachain Map

Park in the signposted car park just off the A82 at the east end of Loch Tulla. This route can be run in either direction, but I prefer to tackle it anti-clockwise as you get the majority of the climbing out the way early on and have the flattish valley section at the end to cruise along looking back towards Loch Tulla.

Description

Start out along the farm track before branching right onto a singletrack path; there is an old walkers sign here to mark the turn point. The path will begin to climb upwards and over the top of the railway line. Follow the path with the burn on your left before cross over to the other side after about 4km. Beinn an Dòthaidh will be looming over you on your right, a peak that can be incorporated if you so wish, or run separately with Beinn Dorain (see other route in guidebook). Hit the saddle in the hill and cut up left to follow the ridge up to the summit of Beinn an Dòthaidh (1038m). The ridge is steep to the north with a sheer rock face drop in places, so take care, especially when the terrain turns steeply downwards after Meall Buidhe before the final push up to Beinn a’ Chreachain.

Tag the summit of Beinn a’ Chreachain before following the ridge in a northly direction and branching right and downwards. The path continues on, but take a left down towards Lochan a’ Chreachain—a great place for a dip on a hot day! Continue down the hill with the burn on your right before entering a section of native woodland. Navigate through the small tunnel under the railway line, cross the river, and join the fireroad on the other side. Turn left onto the fireroad, which will lead you back down the valley to the start point. It’s a great way to finish the run, and Loch Tulla awaits if you need to cool off!

Difficulty

Difficult

Medium Exposure

2 out of 4

The trail contains some obstacles such as outcroppings and rock which could cause injury.

Remoteness

3 out of 4

Little chance of being seen or helped in case of an accident.

Best time to visit

between May and October

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area