Ben More via A’ Chioch. July 2015.

PLEASE NOTE: The GPX trace on this route is for use as a guide only, its accuracy may change depending on the scale of map you are using. Use in combination with judgement and a paper map. We have taken all reasonable steps to ensure these walks are safe and correctly described. However things do change and all outdoor activities involve a degree of risk. The publishers accept no responsibility for any errors or omissions or for any injuries or accidents that occur whilst following this walk. Trail magazine, Copyright Bauer Media Limited.


Distance 12km (7½ miles)

Total ascent 1060m

Time 7 hours

Start/finish layby near the bridge over the Abhainn na h-Uamha (NM507367)

Terrain rough throughout, both boggy and rocky: the scramble over A’ Chioch and Ben More’s northeast ridge is Grade 1, borderline Grade 2: sticking to the true crest is technically more difficult and more exposed, while flanking options on the slopes below tend to be looser and more serious. The descent of Ben More’s normal route is easy but very eroded.

NM507367 A rough path follows the south-west bank of the burn, passing above a series of cascades and pools in a ravine and then a larger waterfall. Above this, continue beside the burn into boggy Gleann na Beinne Fada, with an impressive view of Ben More to your right. At the head of the glen a steady ascent gains the col between Beinn Fhada and A’ Chioch.

NM537344 Scramble Turn right to get established on A’ Chioch’s north ridge. Beyond a broad, grassy area the ridge narrows and steepens dramatically, rearing up to the sharp summit in a series of rock steps. Stick with the crest for some enjoyable scrambling, with a short, airy crux step. Take care for loose rocks, and avoid the rubbly flanks below the crest.

NM534333 From the summit cairn there’s an imposing view 2 of Ben More’s sharp east-northeast ridge, the crest you’re about to traverse. Fear not: it’s no harder than A’ Chioch. An easy initial descent soon leads to steep, rocky ground leading down into a little col at the start of the Ben More ridge.

NM530332 Scramble The initial toothed crest can be avoided via a series of scrappy trails just down on the left flank, but the higher line is better. As the ridge begins to steepen where it meets the flank of Ben More the temptation to veer off the crest grows stronger. But though it is very exposed, the best rock is found in a direct assault up the very edge, and the real difficulties are short-lived. By contrast the left flank is less hands-on, but much looser. A good compromise is to skirt left below the initial steep nose of the ridge on a rubbly path, then quickly turn right to climb an unpleasant scree gully leading up to the crest. Easier scrambling then leads in fine style up the arête to Ben More’s summit. 

NM525330 As the high point of Mull the summit offers a huge view over the island. Take the popular baggers’ path down the mountain’s broad north-west ridge. At first quite steep and rubbly, the going  gradually eases on the grassy slopes leading down to the Abhainn Dhiseig. On the lower ground cross the burn and follow an intermittent trail across boggy ground to the cottage at Dhiseig. Back at sea-level a short stroll along the road regains the car.