Stob Coire a’ Chàirn: A Majestic Peak in the Mamores

Stob Coire a’ Chàirn is a striking Munro located in the Mamores mountain range, just south of Fort William. At a height of 981 metres (3,218 feet), it forms part of the celebrated Ring of Steall, a challenging and scenic ridge walk that covers several Munros in one of the Highlands’ most iconic landscapes. Offering sweeping views of nearby glens, lochs, and neighbouring peaks, Stob Coire a’ Chàirn is a rewarding climb for experienced hillwalkers.

A Key Summit in the Ring of Steall

Stob Coire a’ Chàirn is often climbed as part of the Ring of Steall, a demanding and exhilarating ridge route that includes other Munros such as An Gearanach, Am Bodach, and Sgùrr a’ Mhaim. The route is famous for its narrow ridges and steep ascents, offering hillwalkers the chance to tackle multiple Munros in one memorable day. Stob Coire a’ Chàirn itself is often considered a linking peak, connecting An Gearanach to the east and Am Bodach to the west.

Despite being one of the lesser-known Munros in the Mamores, the summit of Stob Coire a’ Chàirn provides expansive views of Glen Nevis, Loch Leven, and the surrounding Highlands, making it a rewarding point on the Ring of Steall circuit.

A Challenging and Scenic Ascent

The ascent to Stob Coire a’ Chàirn is typically tackled as part of the full Ring of Steall, beginning from Glen Nevis. The route involves scrambling along exposed ridges, with steep sections that require sure footing and a good level of fitness. While the summit itself is not as challenging as other peaks in the Mamores, such as Sgùrr a’ Mhaim, it still offers the thrill of a high mountain adventure, with stunning Highland scenery in every direction.

For those not keen on completing the entire Ring of Steall, Stob Coire a’ Chàirn can also be reached as a standalone Munro or combined with nearby peaks like Am Bodach for a shorter day out.

Stunning Views of the Mamores

From the summit of Stob Coire a’ Chàirn, climbers are rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding Mamores range, the dramatic peaks of Ben Nevis, and the vast expanses of the Glen Coe mountains. On a clear day, the visibility stretches far across the Highlands, making it an ideal spot for photography and appreciating the rugged beauty of the region.

The descent from Stob Coire a’ Chàirn continues along narrow ridges, providing further dramatic views of the nearby peaks and glens.

Practical Information and Safety

Stob Coire a’ Chàirn and the Ring of Steall are best suited for experienced hillwalkers due to the exposed ridges and challenging terrain. Proper equipment, including sturdy boots, waterproofs, and navigation tools, is essential, especially given the unpredictable nature of Scottish weather.

The walk typically begins from Glen Nevis or Mamore Lodge, with car parking available in both locations. The full Ring of Steall circuit can take between 7 and 10 hours depending on fitness levels and weather conditions, so walkers should plan accordingly and ensure they have enough time to complete the route in daylight.