Ramblers Association Lochaber and Lorn Group Walks Programme October 2014 to March 2015

Transcription

1 Ramblers Association Lochaber and Lorn Group Walks Programme October 2014 to March 2015 Day Date Grade Walk Location Leader Thu 2 Oct S Aonach Dubh and Stob Coire nan Glencoe Andrew Gilbert Lochan Sat 4 Oct M Meall nam Maigheach and Creag Glen Lyon Gerry Gilbert nan Eildeag Thu 9 Oct M+ Meall a Phubuill Glen Loy Sally Cameron Sun 12 Oct L River Pattack and Ardverike Kinloch Laggan Marion Moir Thu 16 Oct M Little Bonnet of Lorn Lochaline Marion Moir Sat 18 Oct M+ Sgurr na h-eanchainne Ardgour Sally Cameron Thu 23 Oct L Loch Ossian Corrour Marion Moir Sun 26 Oct S Gairich Loch Quoich Andrew Gilbert Thu 30 Oct M+ Troisgeach and Meall an Fhudair Glen Falloch Graham Innes Sat 1 Nov L Glencoe Ski Centre to Bà Bridges Rannoch Moor Tony Laidler Thu 6 Nov S Ben Starav Glen Etive Nigel Clark Sun 9 Nov M Cnap Cruinn Fersit Tony Laidler Thu 13 Nov L Achadh nan Darach to Glen Duror Graham Innes Ballachulish Sat 15 Nov S Beinn Vorlich and Stuc a Chroin Lochearnhead Nigel Clark Thu 20 Nov M Loch Oich Circuit Invergarry Tony Laidler Sun 23 Nov M+ Meall Copagach Dalmally Graham Innes Thu 27 Nov S Sgurr Dhomhnuill and Druim Strontian Ian Moir Garbh Sat 29 Nov M Gleann Righ to Glen Nevis Onich Pat Lawson Thu 4 Dec M+ Meall nan Damh Callop Tony Laidler Sun 7 Dec L Tulla Cottage to Bridge of Orchy Bridge of Orchy Kath Small Thu 11 Dec M Am Meall Circuit Glen Coe Nigel Clark Sat 13 Dec M+ Ben Laga and Meall nan Each Ardnamurchan Sally Cameron Thu 18 Dec L Oban to Gallanach Oban Kath Small Sun 21 Dec S Meall an Doire Dhuibh and Beinn Kingairloch Gerry Gilbert Mheadhoin Thu 25 Dec M+ Stob Coire Raineach Glencoe TBA Sat 27 Dec L Black Lochs of Kilvaree Connel Kath Small Thu 1 Jan S Stob Ban Glen Nevis Nigel Clark Sun 4 Jan M Coire an Iubhair Ardgour Ian Moir Thu 8 Jan L Kerrera North Circuit Oban Kath Small Sat 10 Jan S Aonach Beag and Aonach Mòr Glen Nevis Andrew Gilbert Thu 15 Jan M High Silver Walk Acharacle Dave Kime Sun 18 Jan M+ Tom Meadhoin to Inchree Onich Tony Laidler Thu 22 Jan S Meall na Teanga and Sròn Loch Lochy Ian Moir a Choire Ghairbh Sat 24 Jan M Beinn Churalain Loch Creran Graham Innes Thu 29 Jan M+ Sgurr an Fhuarain Duibh Glen Finnan Gerry Gilbert Sun 1 Feb L Tyndrum to Crianlarich Tyndrum Kath Small 1

2 Day Date Grade Walk Location Leader Thu 5 Feb M Monadh Gorm and Glen Dessary Loch Arkaig Tony Laidler Sat 7 Feb M+ Creach Bheinn Loch Creran Gerry Gilbert Thu 12 Feb L Cona Glen to Corrlarach Bothy Ardgour Sally Cameron Sun 15 Feb S Stob Choire Claurigh and Stob Spean Bridge Andrew Gilbert Ban Thu 19 Feb M+ Beinn Bhreac-liath and Beinn Tyndrum Gerry Gilbert Udlaidh Sat 21 Feb L Loch Treig to Monessie Gorge Fersit Marion Moir Thu 26 Feb S Sgor na h-ulaidh Glen Coe Andrew Gilbert Sun 1 Mar M Ariundle Lead Mine and Druim Strontian Gerry Gilbert Glas Thu 5 Mar L Corryhully Bothy Glenfinnan Kath Small Sat 7 Mar S Ben More and Stob Binnein Crianlarich Ian Moir Thu 12 Mar M Brae Roy Lodge to the Dog Falls Glen Roy Gerry Gilbert Sun 15 Mar M+ Beinn Mhich Chasgaig Glen Etive Ian Moir Thu 19 Mar S Aonach Meadhoin, Sgurr Cluanie Andrew Gilbert a Bhealaich Dheirg and Saileag Sat 21 Mar M Sgurr an t-sasunnaich and Sgurr Arisaig Marion Moir an Albanaich Thu 26 Mar M+ Beinn na Lap Corrour Tony Laidler Sun 29 Mar L Loch Moidart and Loch Shiel Circuit Ardmolich Dave Kime Selection of Walks The policy is to avoid repeating walks done within the past two years. However, walks that appeared on programmes within the last two years which were not done for any reason may be included in a subsequent programme at the earliest opportunity. Grading of Walks Walks in this programme are assigned a grade as follows: L Leisurely For people with some country walking experience. Mostly on paths. Ascents generally less than 250m. Distance no more than 16Km. Leisurely pace. M Moderate Often on paths. Some steep or rough ground in open country. Ascents generally under 500m. Moderate pace. M + Moderate Plus Lower hills or passes between higher hills, often pathless on steep or rough ground. Ascents generally more than 500m. Brisk pace. S Strenuous Big hills with rough open terrain. Some steep and/or sustained climbs to high summits, ascents generally more than 800m. Brisk pace, demanding strength and stamina. The ascent limit may be exceeded if the route is shorter than normal or provides easier walking on good paths. The grade is only a guide and members should read the walk description and check the specified maps carefully before deciding whether a walk is suitable for them. Information about grading and walk procedures may be found at Certain winter conditions demand the use of ice axe and crampons. A head torch should be carried on all winter hill walks. Walk Leaders 2

3 Please contact the leader if you decide to attend a walk. It is in your interests to do so. Transport needs to be co-ordinated and arrangements for the walk may have to be changed at short notice. If you are unsure about your fitness or equipment, the leader will provide more information. Packed lunches A packed lunch and sufficient water or soft drink should be carried on all walks. On longer or more strenuous walks, a reserve of high-energy food should also be carried. Car Sharing As well as its obvious advantages for the environment, car sharing mitigates parking problems where space is restricted at the start of the walk. Members are expected to contribute 20p per mile, shared equally by the occupants, including the driver. Dogs Dogs are allowed only on walks marked, normally one per month. Committee Chairman: Ian Moir Hon. Secretary: Nic Welsh Treasurer: Ron Campbell Walks Secretary: Membership Secretary: Member: Graham Innes Member: Sally Cameron Member: Nigel Clark Member: Trevor Jones DETAILS OF WALKS Navigation All Ramblers walks have a leader, who is responsible for the navigation. Walkers do not need to have any navigational skills or equipment. However, members are encouraged to improve their map-reading and compass skills over time, particularly as they graduate to the harder walks. The programme facilitates this and members should take advantage of training opportunities offered by the Group. Route Descriptions Route descriptions are concise and factual, and designed to be read in conjunction with the map. Headings, bearings, aspects etc. are given simply as cardinal or inter-cardinal compass points unless greater precision is necessary for clarity. The descriptive terms used give an idea of the terrain and help the navigator confirm his/her position. Features mentioned and place names used are those represented on the map. Some of these appear only on the larger scale maps. Each walk description is contained within a single page that can be printed and taken on the walk. Maps and Grid References Map sheet numbers specified are Ordnance Survey 1:50,000 Landranger series and Ordnance Survey 1:25,000 Explorer series. Unique six-figure grid references (XX000000) are given. Positions obtained using a GPS receiver are given a ten-figure reference (XX ). Abbreviations arr arrival CP car park dep departure 3

4 EX Ordnance Survey Explorer Map FC Forestry Commission GPS Global Positioning System LR Ordnance Survey Landranger Map NTS National Trust for Scotland Sch - School Stn railway station amblers Scotland Lochaber and Lorn Group - Walks Programme Winter TBA to be announced. (Contact Walks Secretary for latest information) TIC Tourist Information Centre WHW West Highland Way WM Woollen Mill WP - Waypoint Meeting Places and Driving Times Meeting places used by the Group are listed in the table below, with map references and approximate driving times. Walk descriptions specify the time of departure from a convenient meeting place in the nearest population centre, and the location and time of the start of the walk. Members should inform the leader if they intend to use a different meeting place, or need transport. Minimum driving times in minutes Longsdale CP Oban Oban Ferry Term. Bridge of Orchy Stn Tyndrun Srvcs. CP Ballachulish TIC Glencoe Village CP N. Ballachulish Sch Corran Ferry Slip Fort William WM Fort William Stn Banavie CP Spean Bridge WM Spean Bridge Stn Longsdale CP Oban NM Oban Ferry Term. NM Bridge of Orchy Stn NN Tyndrum Srvcs. CP NN Ballachulish TIC NN Glencoe Village CP NN N. Ballachulish Sch NN Corran Ferry Slip NN Fort William WM NN Fort William Stn NN Banavie CP NN Spean Bridge WM NN Spean Bridge Stn NN

5 Thursday 2 nd October Aonach Dubh and Stob Coire nan Lochan Glen Coe (Munro Top) A classic mountain walk up the W face of Aonach Dubh by Dinnertime Buttress and descending from Stob Coire nan Lochan down the nose of Gearr Aonach. Use the CP near Achnambeithach NN Follow the path by the Allt Coire nam Beithach. Cross the burn at approx. NN and head E up the steep slope towards the buttress between the 1 st and 2 nd gullies on the W face of Aonach Dubh. A path, distinct on the crest of an eroded moraine, becomes fainter higher up on steeper vegetated ground. The rock quality improves at the rhyolite band, which provides a good scramble. Exposed scrambling may be avoided here by trending rightwards into the 2 nd gulley, which is followed up into a small coire under the skyline. Climb out of the coire and visit the summit of Aonach Dubh, 892m, then head up the N ridge of Stob Coire nan Lochan to its summit, 1115m. Descend the steep E ridge then follow the crest of Gearr Aonach to the cairn at the NE end. Find the path, marked by a further cairn, which zig-zags down the nose of Gearr Aonach. At each bend is a short scramble. Below the nose, the path joins the Coire Gabhail path, which is followed to the Viewpoint CP on the A82 at NN Transport required. Grade: S LR 41 Distance: 7Km EX 384 Height to climb: 1080m Glencoe Village CP NN at 0845 Start of walk at 0900 Leader: Andrew Gilbert Saturday 4 th October Meall nam Maigheach and Creag nan Eildeag Glen Lyon (Corbett) This walk offers a Corbett summit, grandstand views of the nearby Munros and beautiful Glen Lyon, and finishes in a picturesque highland village. Start at the watershed, marked by a cairn at the summit of the Ben Lawers road between Loch Tay and Glen Lyon, NN Limited parking is available in the vicinity. Head N over Meall nan Eun and climb the broad SE ridge of Meall nam Maigheach to its summit, 779m. Descend the NE ridge to a shallow col and continue to the summit of Creag nan Eildeag, 642m. Head NE to a smaller summit then descend between the crags on the N aspect to reach the track at the corner of Kerrowmore Woods, NN Turn left and follow the track to Bridge of Balgie. Transport required from the CP at NN575463, 400m S of the bridge over the River Lyon. Grade: M LR 51 Distance: 11Km EX 378 Glencoe Village CP NN at 0825 Height to climb: 383m Longsdale CP Oban NM at 0810 Start of walk at 1000 Leader: Gerry Gilbert

6 Thursday 9 th October Meall a Phubuill Glen Loy (Corbett) This Corbett is a fine vewpoint above the watershed between Gleann Sùleag and Glen Loy, and harbours a rare geological feature. Start at Achnanellan, NN092847, near the end of the public road in Glen Loy. Parking is available in the vicinity. Head W along the track to Brian Choille. Beyond the trees, climb NW up the slope to the col W of Druim Gleann Laoigh. Follow the ridge W by a dry-stone dyke to a summit, 747m, and descend to the col beyond. Climb W to the summit of Meall a Phubuill, 774m. Return to the col and descend S following the burn. At NN it passes over the agglomerate of a volcanic vent. At about NN (420m altitude), diverge from the burn and head ESE down to re-join the track back to the start. Grade: M+ LR 41 Distance: 15Km EX 399 Height to climb: 764m Fort William WM NN at 0915 Start of walk at 0930 Leader: Sally Cameron Sunday 12 th October River Pattack and Ardverikie Kinloch Laggan A pleasant circuit on woodland tracks to the waterfalls on the river Pattack, and back past Glen Bogle Castle. Start on the A86 at the estate gatehouse, where roadside parking is available, NN Cross the bridge, turn right and follow the estate road to a junction at NN Turn sharp left and head E for 2Km, then right to Gallovie farm. Continue S on the track to the Falls of Pattack. Continue on the track until it diverges from the river at NN There are more waterfalls a few metres upstream from here. Head back to the track, turn S, then sharp right at the junction at NN Follow the track NW, through mixed woodland and plantation down to Ardverikie. Take the track NE by the loch side back to the A86 at the gatehouse. Grade: L LR 42 Distance: 16Km EX 401/393 Height to climb: 150m Fort William WM NN at 0920 Start of walk at 1000 Leader: Marion Moir

7 Thursday 16 th October Little Bonnet of Lorn Lochaline A mysterious little hill almost surrounded by forest, set between the wilderness of Morvern and the Sound of Mull above lovely Loch Arienas. Intriguing. Fine long views in all directions. Start on the cycle trail at NM Head S then SE on the forest track to turn right at the first junction then sharp right at the next. Leave the track at NM and head N up the slope where convenient between sections of plantation and clear-felled areas, to reach An t-strang. Follow the broad ridge to Aoineadh Beag, then NW over Sgurr na Gréine and Aoineadh Mór to reach the summit of Sìthean na Raplaich. Head NE, along the rim of the scarp to the source of a small burn at about NM643523, which tumbles SE down the slope and intersects with a forest track at NM Negotiate the scarp where convenient, join the track and follow it back to the start. Grade: M LR 49 Distance: 14 Km EX 383 Height gained: 520m Corran Ferry Slip NN for 0915 sailing Start of walk at 1010 Leader: Marion Moir Saturday 18 th October Sgurr na h-eanchainne Ardgour Not high enough to make it into the Corbett list, this hill is nonetheless an imposing feature in the Lochaber landscape and one of its best viewpoints. Start at the Ardgour ferry slip and follow the A861 N to the graveyard at Cille Mhaodain, NN Climb NW up the ridge immediately behind the graveyard to reach a shallow coire and continue NW to a col, NM996665, at the foot of the N ridge of Sgurr na h-eanchainne. Follow this S to its summit at 730m. Descend W, past a lochan on the col and climb W, then SW to the summit of Meall Dearg Choire nam Muc, 734m. Descend SE down a well-defined ridge to reach the waterfalls of Maclean s Towel. Descend steeply to the communications tower at NN000645, follow the track SW to Ardgour House, then follow the estate roads to the A861 back to Ardgour ferry slip. Grade: M+ LR 40/41 Distance: 14Km EX 391 Height to climb: 800m Corran Ferry slip NN for 0915 sailing Start of Walk at 0930 Leader: Sally Cameron Thursday 23rd October Loch Ossian Corrour A short journey by train on the West Highland Line, then a fairly level walk on good paths or tracks in a remote area. Start from Corrour Stn, NN Take the track ENE. Near the Youth Hostel a path forks right and climbs E to Peter s Rock. Here, turn left and descend to rejoin the track on the S shore of Loch Ossian. Follow the track to the foot of the Loch, past Corrour Shooting Lodge and turn SW along the N shore to return to Corrour Stn. Train to Bridge of Orchy, dep Grade : L LR 41/42 Distance : 14km EX 385 Longsdale CP Oban NM at 1000 Height to climb: 150m Glencoe Village CP NN at 0930 Bridge of Orchy Stn NN for 1048 dep Leader: Marion Moir

8 Sunday 26 th October Gairich Loch Quoich (Munro) This is a relatively easy hill in a wild and isolated setting. The splendid E-facing headwall above Coire Thollaidh is visible from afar and remains a fine sight throughout the approach, especially in winter. Start at the dam at the E end of Loch Quoich, NH There is limited parking space here. Cross the dam and follow the boggy path S for about 3Km, to the edge of a conifer plantation. Turn W and follow the path, indistinct or eroded in places, up the shoulder of Druim na Geid Salaich to the summit of Bac nam Foid, 584m. Ignoring an old stalkers path that leads to the S face, keep to the crest of the E ridge where a hillwalkers path may be found, and ascend steeply to the summit of Gairich, 919m. There are a few rocky steps to negotiate. The easiest descent is made by reversing the outward route. Alternatively follow the N ridge down to the shore of Loch Quoich and follow it to the dam - not recommended unless the ground is well frozen. Grade : S LR 33 Distance : 16Km EX 399/414 Height to climb 800m Fort William WM NN at 0850 Start of walk at 1000 Leader: Andrew Gilbert Thursday 30th October Troisgeach Glen Falloch Easy access to a rough and rocky hill that affords views down Loch Lomond and up Glen Falloch, with a panorama of famous Munros from the summit. Start on the A82 in Glen Falloch at the foot of a track at NN319196, where limited parking is available. Follow the track under the power lines and over the railway. Turn right at the junction at NN and leave the track at the left-hand bend just W of Troisgeach Bheag. Climb W up the hillside to the summit of Troisgeach, 733m. Head NW for 1Km to Meall nan Caora at 721m. Two return routes are possible from here: Descend NE, steeply down to the track in Gleann nan Caorann. Follow this back to the start. Head SW across the rough plateau to the Corbett Meall an Fhudair, 764m. Descend SE, making a long traverse directly down to the track at NN and follow it back to the start. This option adds about 100m of height to climb, and another 2Km. Grade: M+ LR 56 Distance: 11km EX 364 Height to climb: 790m Longsdale CP Oban NM at 0850 Glencoe Village CP NN at 0900 Start of walk at 1000 Leader: Graham Innes

9 Saturday 1 st November Glencoe Ski Centre to the Bà Bridges Rannoch Moor A fairly level walk to the River Bà, which rises in the nearby Blackmount and eventually joins the mighty Tay on its way to the North Sea. Wide open views of moorland and mountains. Start from the Ski Centre CP at NN Walk down the approach road a short distance and turn right on to a path heading E past a small patch of woodland. This soon joins the WHW. Follow this track to the Bà Cottage ruin, and continue to the old Bà Bridge at NN Return to Bà Cottage, cross the bridge and take the right fork on to a footpath leading E to the A82. Turn right along the road to the new Bà Bridge. Transport required. Grade: L LR 50 Distance: 11 Km EX 377/384 Height to climb: 150m Glencoe Village CP NN at 1010 Start of walk at 1030 Leader: Tony Laidler Thursday 6 th November Ben Starav Glen Etive (Munro) This fine Munro, in a prominent position at the head of Loch Etive, makes a splendid winter expedition. Start at NN where limited parking is available. A track leads across the River Etive to Coileitir. Continue SW on the path past Coileitir and cross the Allt nam Meirleach to the foot of the NNE ridge of Ben Starav. Climb this to the summit. From the summit take the ridge E over Stob Coire Dheirg and descend to the col at 766m. Turn N into the coire and join the path leading back to Coileitir. If weather and snow conditions are suitable, the walk could be extended by a traverse of Meall nan Tri Tighearnan and Glas Bheinn Mhor to a col at 738m, before descending NW to Coileitir, adding 4Km and 300m of distance and height respectively. Grade: S LR 50 Distance: 11 Km EX 377/384 Glencoe Village CP NN at 0845 Height to climb: 1140m Start of walk at 0930 Leader: Nigel Clark Sunday 9 th November Cnap Cruinn Fersit This small hill, on the Grahams list, gives a grand perspective on nearby Munros in the Grey Corries and the Easains. Start at the end of the public road at Fersit, NN349781, where parking is available. Follow the dismantled tramway N then SW to a dam on the Allt Làire. Cross the dam and follow the river upstream on its W bank until past the plantation, then head NW to the summit of Cnap Cruinn*. Descend NE to the track, turn right and rejoin the dismantled tramway to return to Fersit. *A short extension to the route may be made to Beinn Chlianaig, which adds 1Km and 50m of distance and height respectively. Grade: M LR 41 Distance 13Km EX 392/393 Height gained 550m Fort William WM NN at 0920 Start of walk at 1000 Leader: Tony Laidler

10 Thursday 13 th November Achadh nan Darach to Ballachulish Glen Duror A walk spanning both forest and wide open glen in an area steeped in history and immortalised in Robert Louis Stevenson s Kidnapped. Start from the forestry CP at Achadh nan Darach, NN Follow the lower track SE through the forest. Turn left at the 3 rd junction and follow a narrower track uphill to reach the James of the Glen Bothy at NN Return directly S to the main track on rough ground, about 100m distant and a drop of about 30m. Follow the track E to its junction with a footpath at NN This crosses the watershed between Glen Duror and Gleann an Fhiodh. The path continues E, out of the forest, and down to Ballachulish on the NW side of the River Laroch. Transport required from the Ballachulish TIC NN Grade: L LR 41 Distance: 13Km EX 384 Height gained: 250m Longsdale CP Oban NM at 0850 Ballachulish TIC NN at 0910 Start of walk at 0930 Leader: Graham Innes Saturday 15 th November Beinn Vorlich and Stuc a Chroin Lochearnhead (Two Munros) Two classic munros at the edge of the highlands with distant views of the lowlands to the south. Start on the lochside road near the entrance to Ardvorlich Estate at NN632232, where parking is available. Follow the directions past the buildings to reach the path that climbs steadily S in Glen Vorlich. Fork right at NN and continue on the path to the summit of Ben Vorlich, 985m. Descend W and follow a line of fence posts down to Bealach an Dubh Choirein. Beyond this col stands the rocky buttress of Stuc a Chroin s N Top. It is possible to scramble up the rock directly to its summit. The scramble can be avoided by descending a short distance NW into Coire Fuadarach and following a path around the head of the coire and up to the NW ridge by an obvious slope between rock outcrops. The main summit of Stuc a Chroin, 975m, lies ½Km to the S. Return to Coire Fuadarach by this route and follow the path leading horizontally across the W face of Ben Vorlich, around its NW ridge and across Coire Buidhe to rejoin the ascent route eventually, at about NN Grade: S LR 51/57 Distance: 14Km EX 368 Height to climb: 1160m Longsdale CP Oban NM at 0800 Glencoe Village CP NN at 0815 Start of walk at 0930 Leader: Nigel Clark

11 Thursday 20 th November Loch Oich Circuit Invergarry Loch Oich is the summit of the Caledonian Canal. A circuit of its shores is full of variety and points of interest. Start at the Post Office in Invergarry, NH301010, where limited parking is available. A short distance W along the A87 turn left on to a path leading S, across a bridge over the River Garry, and turn right along the bank. Pass through a gate, turn S across a field to reach the minor road at Easter Mandally. Turn left then take the right fork on to a forest track just after a cattle grid. Follow the Great Glen Cycle Route to the A82 at NH Follow the A82 to Laggan Bridge and cross to the Water Park. Head NE on the path along the side of Loch Oich, which more or less follows the line of the dismantled railway. At the far end of the loch, leave the main path to cross the Calder Burn on the old railway bridge and continue to the A82. Turn left, over the swing bridge and visit the old Bridge of Oich. Diverge from the main road near a milestone at NH and follow a footpath SW through a conifer plantation. This eventually becomes a forest road, which ends at a turning space above the village of Invergarry. Turn right on to a footpath just before this, at NH306013, descend to the A87 and turn right, back to the Post Office. Grade: M LR 34 Distance: 17Km EX 400 Height gained 400m Fort William WM NN at 0930 Start of walk at 1000 Leader: Tony Laidler Sunday 23 rd November Meall Copagach Dalmally A fine walk on an established hill track followed by a short ascent to a hill overlooking Glen Kinglass. Start from the CP on the B8077 at NN Head NE on the track up Glen Strae to a junction with a path at NN Follow the path N up the Lairig Dhoireann to its highest point near a lochan. Leave the path and head W over rough ground rising steeply to the summit of Meall Copagach, 810m. Return by the outward route. Grade: M+ LR 50 Distance:13km EX 377 Height to climb: 800m Ballachulish TIC NN at 0830 Longsdale CP Oban NM at 0900 Start of walk at 0930 Leader: Graham Innes

12 Thursday 27 th November Sgurr Dhomhnuill and Druim Garbh Strontian (Corbett) An easy approach through mature oak woods and old mine workings leads to a rough and remote ridge walk, taking in a shapely Corbett summit. Start from the forest walk CP at the end of the public road, NM Head NE up the track through the woodland. On leaving the forest, continue to the old Lead Mine. Cross the burn as soon as convenient and climb E up the spur to reach Druim Leac a Sgiathain and continue to the summit of Sgurr na h-ighinn, 766m. Turn NE, descend to a col and climb the S ridge of Sgurr Dhomhnuill to its summit, 888m. Descend steeply NW over rocky ground to a col at NM885680, then climb up to the summit at the E end of Druim Garbh, 803m. Follow the undulating ridge WSW to the source of a burn at NM Descend steeply S following the burn until the gradient eases, then head SW and make directly for the footpath at the Lead Mine. Return to the start by the outward route. Grade: S LR 40 Distance: 19Km EX 391 Height to climb: 1098m Corran Ferry Slip NN for 0850 sailing Start of walk at 0930 Leader: Ian Moir Saturday 29 th November Gleann Righ to Glen Nevis Onich A cross-country route in the shadow of the Mamores linking up with the final section of the West Highland Way. Mainly on well made paths. Minimal bog-trotting. Start at the Inchree forest walk CP, NN Leave from the SW corner of the CP following the path that zig-zags up the wooded side of the glen above the waterfall on the Abhainn Righ. At the forest track, turn right and follow it through Gleann Righ by the river to the forest boundary at NN There is a stile in the vicinity, concealed among the trees, that gives access over the fence and on to the boggy open ground to the N. A faint path may be found that leads past the remains of some dwellings and continues to Lundavra. Follow the public road to NN where a short track on the right gives access to the WHW. Follow this path N, then NW towards Glen Nevis until it becomes a forest track. At this point a short diversion may be made to the vitrified fort of Dun Deardail. Return to the forest track and follow the WHW to its junction with the Peat Track at NN Turn right and descend on a footpath to the public road in Glen Nevis, to finish at the Visitor Centre CP. Transport required. Grade: M LR 41 Distance: 19 Km EX 384/392 Height to climb: 361m Fort William WM NN at 0910 N. Ballachulish Sch NN at 0920 Start of walk at 0930 Leader: Pat Lawson

13 Thursday 4 th December Meall nan Damh Glenfinnan A remote, craggy hill giving views into an area not often visited. It is on the Grahams list, at no. 59. Start at the CP by the river at Callop, NM and follow the track S, past the power station and farm buildings. The track ends at a small dam after about 2½Km. Shortly before the dam, take the footpath forking right and follow it up S to pass through a gate in the fence. Leave the path and follow the fence to the Allt na Cruaiche Where convenient, cross the burn to its eastern side to gain the NE ridge of Meall nan Damh. Climb the ridge to the first summit, 722m, and traverse E to the second at 723m. Return to the first summit and descend its SW ridge, turning NW to pick up the path at the watershed, NM900747, and follow it back to Callop. Grade : M+ LR 40 Distance : 14 Km EX 391 Height to climb : 750m Sunday 7 th December Fort William WM NN at 0900 Start of walk at 0930 Leader: Tony Laidler Tulla Cottage to Bridge of Orchy Bridge of Orchy A beautiful loch, native Scots pine trees and a backdrop of grand hills from every viewpoint make a memorable walk in any season. Start just off the A82 at the drive leading to Tulla Cottage, NN Parking is available. Take the track forking left and follow it SW beside Loch Tulla. Turn left on to the WHW, across Victoria Bridge and continue to the Inveroran Hotel. Stay on the WHW, which leaves the public road and climbs the hill to Màm Carraigh before descending to the Bridge of Orchy Hotel. Transport required. Grade: L LR 50 Distance: 10Km EX 377 Height gained: 191m Longsdale CP Oban NM at 0920 Glencoe Village CP NN at 1000 Start of walk at 1030 Leader : Kath Small

14 Thursday 11 th December Am Meall Circuit Glencoe A varied route taking in some historic sites, with splendid views of the local hills, glens and coast. Start at Glencoe Village CP, NN Follow the village street ENE and turn right into Upper Carnoch, just before the bridge over the River Coe. Continue to the Massacre Monument, pass around it, drop down through a gate and head SW across a boggy field to the Henderson Stone. Cross the A82, turn left along the footpath, which soon diverges from the main road into NTS land. Continue on the path and turn right on to a forest road at NN The road zig-zags up through the forest to the col, 342m, between Am Meall (unnamed on LR maps) and Meall Mor, NN Divert right to climb N up a steep, rough track to the summit of Am Meall, NN Pass beyond the communications tower for grand views of the area. Return to the col, turn right and follow the forest road for 200m to the edge of the clear-felled area at NN Turn W across rough ground for about 100m to reach a grassy ravine and the head of a burn. Continue down beside the burn, through an area of standing trees, to the Water Company building. Take the track N then turn right at NN up the path to the Brecklet ruins. Continue on the path to the forest boundary just S of the quarry. Follow the path down, around the rim of the quarry and descend to Ballachulish Village. Return to Glencoe Village on the cycle track and along the old road by Tighphuirt. Grade: M LR 41 Distance: 12Km EX 384 Height to climb: 500m Saturday 13 th December Glencoe Village CP NN at 0930 Leader : Nigel Clark Ben Laga and Meall nan Each Ardnamurchan A small craggy hill, surmounted by delightful lochans, with great views of Loch Sunart. If this is not enough, there are several other hills in the vicinity. Start at the CP on the B8007 at NM Cross the road and head up through a short section of woodland on to the open hillside. Continue N following the broad ridge, rocky in places, to the summit of Ben Laga 512m. Descend the ridge still heading N, then NW to the head of Loch Laga. Cross the path and head for the summit of Meall nan Each 490m. Descend S, over Leac an Fhidhleir, across the path to reach Leac an Tuairneir. Descend S down the ridge to the road at Laga and return to the start. Grade: M+ LR 40 Distance: 10Km EX 390 Height to climb: 770m Corran Ferry Slip NN for 0850 sailing Start of walk at 1000 Leader: Sally Cameron

15 Thursday 18 th December Oban to Gallanach Oban A pleasant walk through Oban and the nearby countryside and coast. Start at Longsdale CP Oban NM862307, near the Leisure Centre. Walk through the town and up to the viewpoint on Pulpit Hill. Take the track up to the mast at NM then head SW along Druim Mòr to the high point at 137m. Visit the fort site at Dùn Uabairtich, 88m, then take the path down to the Dive Centre and follow the road to Gallanachbeg and Gallanachmore. Visit the site of Dun an Fheurain, NM with a good view to the Firth of Lorn. Head back along the public road as far as the Kerrera Ferry Slip and take the footpath that leads above Ardbhan Craigs to Pulpit Hill. Return to the Leisure Centre. Grade: L LR 49 Distance: 12Km EX 359 Height to climb: 250m Sunday 21 st December Longsdale CP Oban NM at 1030 Leader: Kath Small Meall an Doire Dhuibh and Beinn Mheadhoin Kingairloch The ridges of these modest hills enclose some fine corries. Views of Mull and beyond to the Firth of Lorn. Start at a small CP on the Kingairloch Estate road, just past the Boathouse Restaurant at NM Follow the estate road and paths to South Corry, then climb a good stalkers path which zig-zags up the nose of Meall an Doire Dhuibh. Head SSW along the spur between two fine corries to the small summit of Lag a Mhaim, overlooking Glensanda quarry. Turn WNW and traverse rising ground to Beul Choire nan Each, 702m. Continue to a col, then bear N on steeper ground to reach the summit of Beinn Mheadhoin, 739m. Descend by its ENE ridge, which is steep and narrow at first, and return to Kingairloch. Grade: S LR 49 Distance: 16km EX 383 Height to climb: 917m Corran Ferry slip NN for 0915 sailing Start of walk at Leader: Gerry Gilbert

16 Thursday 25 th December Stob Coire Raineach Glencoe (Munro) A classic hill for a short day, with an interesting way down. Great views around Glen Coe. Start from the CP at NN and head SW on the footpath towards the Lairig Eilde. Take the left fork at NN and climb on a well built path to the col between the two summits of Buachaille Etive Beag. Turn NE and continue up to the summit of Stob Coire Raineach, 925m. Descend NE until the spur levels out. At about NN a ridge to the right of a prominent gully leads down NW towards the start. This feature is seen to advantage from the CP. Grade: M+ LR 41 Distance: 5Km EX 384 Glencoe Village CP NN at 0940 Height to climb: 724m Start of Walk at 1000 Leader: TBA Saturday 27 th December Black Lochs of Kilvaree Connel Three lochs in a chain are the focus of this pleasant walk in open country with a backdrop of woodlands and distant views of Ben Cruachan. Start at the Falls of Lora viewpoint CP at NM Walk E on the pavement along the main road for about 750m then turn right at NM up Achaleven Road, passing under the railway. Turn right at the farmhouse and head SE uphill on the track to Cuil-uaine. Follow the footpath S towards the Lochs and on to Kilvaree. (Stepping stones at NM may give access to the woodland beyond the lochs). Take the track from Kilvaree to the public road. Turn right and follow it for about 3Km back to the start. Grade: L LR 49 Distance: 10km EX 376 Height to climb: 133m Ballachulish TIC NN at 0935 Longsdale CP Oban NM at 1015 Start of walk at 1030 Leader: Kath Small Thursday 1 st January Stob Bàn Glen Nevis (Munro) A classic route for a short winter day, up a crag-lined corry and a superb summit ridge. Start from the Lower Falls CP, NN Take the path SSE up into Coire Mhusgain to the col on the Mamores main ridge. Turn right and climb the E ridge of Stob Bàn to its summit, 999m. Descend the N ridge, which soon turns NW to reach the rim of Coire an Lochain. Descend into the upper corrie and follow the burn down to the lochan. Continue down into the main Coire Dearg and exit N back to the start. Grade: S LR 41 Distance: 10km EX 392 Height gained: 940m Fort William WM NN at 0915 Leader: Nigel Clark

17 Sunday 4 th January Coire an Iubhair Ardgour A walk to a high bealach and lochan under the imposing northern crags of Garbh Bheinn. Start on the A861 at NM929597, where limited parking is available. Take the path up the E side of the Abhainn Coire an Iubhair. This can be boggy in places. After 2Km the gradient steepens and the corry gradually narrows between Garbh Bheinn and Beinn Bheag. Climb up to a spectacular bealach with a small lochan. Return by the same route. Grade: M LR 40/49 Distance: 10Km EX 391 Height to climb: 517m Corran Ferry Slip NN for 0915 sailing Start of walk at 1000 Leader: Ian Moir Thursday 8 th January Kerrera North Circuit Oban A walk around the north end of Kerrera, taking in the monument, marina, the lovely bay of Oitir Mhòr and some archæological sites. Views across the Firth of Lorn to Mull and beyond. From the ferry slip take the track uphill to a high point just past Balliemore. Head N up the hillside to Barr na Gile, then NE to the summit Barr Dubh, the highest point on the north end of Kerrera, 114m. Continue NE and drop steeply down to the path, avoiding the crags. The track leads past Ardantrive farm, the marina and on to the monument at the N end of the island. Head NW to the Cashel at NM Retrace steps to the farm and follow the path W to Oitir Mhor. Leave the path at the head of the bay to visit the Cairn at NM Head S to rejoin the path and visit the Cists at NM Continue on the path to meet the outgoing track just before the high point and follow it back to the ferry for the 1400 or 1600 sailing. Grade : L LR 49 Distance : 10Km EX 359 Height to climb : 250m Ballachulish TIC NN at 0925 Kerrera Ferry Slip NM for 1035 sailing Leader: Kath Small

18 Saturday 10 th January Aonach Beag and Aonach Mòr Glen Nevis (2 Munros) Two classic Munros, Aonach Beag being the more interesting and also the higher. Splendid views of grand hills and wild corries. Start at the Upper Falls CP in Glen Nevis, NN Take the path through the gorge and across the bridge to Steall ruin. Head NE up the broad ridge, which turns E as it narrows, to reach the summit Sgurr a Bhuic, 963m. Descend a little NE to a col, then climb steeply N to Stob Coire Bhealaich, 1048m. Head W along the ridge, then steeply NW up a fine ridge to Aonach Beag, 1234m. Descend steeply NW on rocky ground to the col then climb gradually to the summit plateau of Aonach Mor, 1221m. Return S, almost to the col, to a WP (NN192722) on the 1130m contour. Descend steeply W on an ill-defined spur to the bealach at NN186721, taking care not to stray on to even steeper ground on either side of this line. From the bealach, head S through the hanging valley of Coire Giubhsachan to pick up the path down to Steall ruin on the W side of the burn. Return through the Nevis gorge to the CP. For a shorter day, omitting Aonach Mòr, descend from the summit of Aonach Beag down the SW ridge until the ground steepens at the 950m contour. Turn SSE and continue down to an almost level spur at the lip of Coire nan Laogh, NN Turn SSW and head down the slope direct to Steall ruin. Return through the Nevis gorge to the CP. Grade : S LR 41 Distance : 16Km EX 392 Fort William WM NN at 0845 Height to climb : 1500m Leader: Andrew Gilbert Thursday 15 th January High Silver Walk Acharacle A rough walk at first, with fine views over Loch Moidart and Castle Tioram. Mixed woodland, lochside and river make for a varied and interesting day. Start on the A861 at Blain, NM , where parking is available. Head N on a track a short distance then climb NW up an uneven ridge to Beinn Gheur. The summit is at the N end at about 190m. Descend steeply to the small dam at NM Climb steeply N to the summit of Cruach nam Meann, 207m. A short way further is a fine viewpoint down to Castle Tioram. Head SE over rough ground, past a lochan, to reach a footpath at its highest point at NM Turn N and follow it down to the shore of Loch Moidart and turn left on to the path leading to Castle Tioram. Head S on the estate road along the River Shiel estuary to join the public road and return to Blain. Grade: M LR 40 Distance:12Km EX 390 Height to climb: 300m Corran Ferry Slip NN for 0915 sailing Start of walk 1010 Leader: Dave Kime

19 Sunday 18 th January Tom Mheadhoin to Inchree Onich A through route over hills not often visited at the junction of two great sea lochs. Splendid views of familiar places from a different perspective. Start on the B863 at NN where parking is available. Take the track N up through the trees and continue N on the path up to the bealach at NN Turn W and follow the broad ridge to Tom Mheadhoin 621m. Cross the plateau SW to Creag Bhreac, 615m. Descend W over Leac Mhor and continue over undulating ground to the summit of Beinn an Aonaich Mhoir, 387m. Descend W and up to a small summit, 297m. Head NW to a bridge over the Abhainn Righ at NN (A short diversion may be made to the Lag nam Morag Dun at NN ) Cross the bridge and follow the track up to a junction, turn left, then left again after 400m, and follow the path down past the waterfalls to the CP at Inchree, NN Transport required. Grade: M+ LR 41 Distance: 12Km EX 384 Height to climb: 760m Longsdale CP Oban NM at 0800 Fort William WM NN at 0830 Start of walk at 0900 Leader: Tony Laidler Thursday 22 nd January Meall na Teanga and Sròn a Choire Ghairbh Loch Lochy (Two Munros) A long but easy approach gives good access to these two Munros, which afford grand views up and down the Great Glen. Start from the CP at Laggan Locks, NN Cross the canal and walk SW to the end of the public road at Kilfinnan. Continue on the track through forest on the W side of Loch Lochy. After about 2km take the right fork and continue on the forest track for another 2.5Km to NN , where the path for the Càm Bhealach goes off to the right. Follow this path steeply up to the high point of the bealach. Head S up the slope, contouring around the W flank of Meall Dubh, to reach a wide saddle at about NN Turn SW and climb an ill-defined spur to reach the N ridge of Meall na Teanga and climb to its summit, 917m. Return to the Càm Bhealach and take the steep path N that zig-zags up to a small col, then turn NW and follow the ridge to the summit of Sròn a Choire Ghairbh, 935m. Descend to the Càm Bhealach again and follow the outward route back to the CP. Grade : S LR 34 Distance : 19Km EX 400 Height to climb : 1200m Fort William WM NN at 0830 Start of walk at 0900 Leader: Ian Moir

20 Saturday 24 th January Beinn Churalain Loch Creran A pleasant walk with lovely views across Loch Creran and beyond. There are several historical sites in the vicinity:- St. Cairell s Well at NM Cladh Churalain (burial ground) at NM Abandoned farmstead at NM Kiln at NM Buildings and enclosures at NM Graffito carved on rock at NM (Source: Appin Historical Society Park at the Creagan Inn, NM and take the cycle track E. Before the roundabout follow a track through a gate on the left. A short steep ascent through the trees leads to the line of the old railway and the hillside above. Further up, a gate in a stone wall gives access to the more open hillside. Follow the broad ridge NE to the summit of Beinn Churalain, 549m. Head NW down to a col from here, then up to a small summit at 430m. Take the SW ridge and descend to the A828 where it crosses the An Lola burn at NM Follow the cycle track back to the Creagan Inn. Grade: M LR 49 Distance: 8Km EX 376/384 Height to climb: 550m Longsdale CP Oban NM at 0900 Ballachulish TIC NN at 0900 Start of walk at 0940 Leader: Graham Innes Thursday 29th January Sgurr an Fhuarain Duibh Glenfinnan A craggy hill of intermediate height in the shadow of the Coire Thollaidh Horseshoe. Not often visited. Grand views around Glen Finnan. Start at the CP just before the gate to the estate road at NM Follow the estate road NE, under the railway viaduct and through Glen Finnan. Turn left at the junction before Corryhully and turn left again on to the footpath that follows the Allt a Chaol-ghinne. Continue to the watershed. Head N up a steep slope to the crest of the ridge, just east of a small summit, 553m. Climb NE up the ridge to the summit of Sgurr an Fhuarain Duibh, 749m. Descend N to a col then SE down into Coire Carnaig. Follow the Allt a Choire Charnaig into the lower coire. At an altitude of about 340m, head E to pick up the path descending from Sgurr a Choire Riabhaich. Follow the path down to the track and turn right to reach Corryhully. Follow the estate road back to the start. Grade: M+ LR 40 Distance: 16km EX 398 Height to climb: 730m Fort William WM NN at 0930 Start of walk at 1000 Leader: Gerry Gilbert

21 Sunday 1 st February Tyndrum to Crianlarich Tyndrum This section of the West Highland Way has a variety of scenery and interest, with a backdrop of big hills never far away. Start at Tyndrum Lower Station, NN327301, where parking is available. Follow the WHW SE to Dalrigh. Continue by the river Fillan under the road, then up to Auchtertyre and on to Kirkton farm. The remains of St. Fillan s Priory are close by. The route then continues S to cross the river, road and railway in turn. Follow the WHW up through the forest. At the junction of paths at NN turn E and take the path down, across the new bypass and on to Crianlarich. Transport required. Grade: L LR 50 Distance: 10Km EX 364/377 Height to climb: 220m Longsdale CP Oban NM at 0900 Glencoe Village CP NN at 0915 Start of walk at 1000 Leader: Kath Small Thursday 5 th February Monadh Gorm and Glen Dessary Loch Arkaig A small hill situated amongst rugged scenery and remote mountains with a grand view down Loch Arkaig. Start from the CP at the end of the public road at NM Take the track W, past Strathan Farm, and follow the forest track leading to Glen Pean. After 400m turn right at the junction and head up N to the burn crossing at NM Follow the burn W up through a clearing between the trees to open ground and ascend the steep slope to the summit of Monadh Gorm, 478m. Continue W over open ground to the head of Coir a Bhoganaich then descend northward to the bridge over the river Dessarry at NM A footpath to Upper Glendessarry, then a track following the river Dessarry, lead back to the start. Grade: M Distance: 12Km Height to climb: 500m LR40 EX398 Fort William WM NN at 0850 Start of walk at 1000 Leader: Tony Laidler

22 Saturday 7 th February Creach Bheinn Loch Creran (Corbett) A useful hilltrack gives easy access to this hill, a fine viewpoint above Loch Creran The return on the eastern side takes us into a remote corry. Start on the minor road just N of Druimavuic at NN009451, where parking is available. Take the track through the woods past Druimavuic House to the open hillside. The track now continues uphill, following the line of the Allt Buidhe and eventually reaches the bealach at the head of Coire Buidhe. Turn SW, and continue over Creag na Cathaig, 662m. Climb steeply up to a summit at 804m. The main summit of Creag Bheinn lies about 1Km to the SW. Head S to a tiny ring contour on a small summit at NN then E down a steep ridge to about 600m. Turn N into the corrie and across it on a NE heading to reach the col SW of Creag na Cathaig, WP NN Head N down into Coire Buidhe, cross the Allt Buidhe where convenient and regain the track back to Druimavuic. Grade: M+ LR 50 Distance: 13Km EX 377 Height to climb: 850m Thursday 12 th February Ballachulish TIC NN at 0835 Longsdale CP Oban NM at 0845 Start of walk at 0915 Leader: Gerry Gilbert Cona Glen to Corrlarach Bothy Ardgour A walk by the Cona river in a lovely glen. The landscape is varied, with many pools and waterfalls and some 700 year old trees. Start at the estate road entrance at NN021686, where parking is available. Follow the estate road, turn left at the junction and head NW on the track into Cona Glen to reach Corrlarach Bothy, NM Return by the same route. Grade: L LR 40/41 Distance: 16Km EX 391 Height to climb: 140m Meet at : Corran Ferry Slip NN for 0945 sailing Start of walk at 1010 Leader: Sally Cameron Sunday 15 th February Stob Choire Claurigh and Stob Ban Spean Bridge (Two Munros) Two spectacular hills at the eastern end of the Grey Corries make a fine winter expedition. Parking is possible at NN at the Scout Hut, (or 2km further south at NN but the track is very rough). Follow the track around Corriechoille House and continue S through The Lairig, an area of forest recently cleared. On emerging from the forest, head SW up steep rough ground on to the N aspect of Stob Coire Gaibhre, 958m, then traverse a fine ridge, over a summit at 1121m, to Stob Choire Claurigh, 1177m, Descend SE then S to the col and lochan on the E side of Coire Ràth. A short steep ascent leads to the summit of Stob Ban, 977m. Descend the E ridge, which levels out then turns NE down to the bothy in the Lairig Leacach. There is a bridge across the Allt a Chuil Choirean just S of the bothy. Return N on the track to Corriechoille. Grade: S LR 41 Distance: 19 Km EX 392 Fort William WM NN at 0830 Height to climb: 1300m Start of walk at 0900 Leader: Andrew Gilbert