Stuc a Choire Dhuibh Bhig and Spidean a' Choire Leith on Liathach from Glen Torridon
Traversing the Am Fasarinen Pinnacles, Liathach
Liathach in spring from the west
Liathach is considered by many mountaineers as one of the greatest mountains in Scotland. This impenetrable looking hill is rivalled only by An Teallach and the Skye Cuillin. Located in the heart of Torridon, it’s level of difficulty is beautifully matched with its breathtaking scenery. Giving spectacular views of Loch Torridon and the mountains of the North West Highlands. Liathach’s two munros, Spidean a’ Choire Leith (1055m) and Mullach an Rathain (1023m) are connected along an 8km ridge (crossing eight separate tops in total). The Am Fasarinen pinnacles is one of Liathach’s most identifiable features, a notorious section of scrambling, located approximately halfway along this ridgeline. A true classic, Liathach fully deserves its reputation as one of Scotland’s best mountains.
View some of the routes we can offer on this mountain
We offer a private guiding service based in the North West of Scotland. Priding ourselves on our local knowledge, experienced guides can help you achieve your mountaineering goals on this fantastic hill. If you’re looking to explore a remote scramble, experience a winter adventure like no other or complete one of the classic ridge traverses in Scotland we can help.
See our ratios and pricing information
Liathach lies in Glen Torridon. Accommodation is available in the glen at the Torridon Youth Hostel, The Torridon Hotel or Kinlochewe Hotel. There is also camping available in Torridon or Kinlochewe. A small shop / cafe is available in Torridon itself. A short drive away from the glen itself are the villages of Shieldaig, Lochcarron, and Gairloch. These provide more facilities.
This is our most popular option and the most traditional traverse of Liathach. We start midway along Glen Torridon using a well-made track to make our way up onto the ridge. Some walking and easy scrambling leads us to the first of the munros (Spidean a’Choire Leith). From here we continue along the ridge and over the The Am Fasarinen Pinnacles, a real highlight for many. The Pinnacles involve grade II scrambling but a bypass can be used if preferred. Next a worn track leads over our second munro (Mullach an Rathain) before descending back into the glen.
While most people experience Liathach using the traditional traverse above there are alternatives we can guide. For example, we can access the mountain from a northerly route, most popular with those wishing to include the summit of Meall Dearg (mainland Scotland’s most technical munro top) before scrambling along The Northern Pinnacles to reach Mullach an Rathain and continuing along the traverse in an Easterly direction. Another alternative start can be made via a scramble along the South Ridge of Mullach an Rathain. We have extensive knowledge of the various routes along Liathach, so if you have any particular requests for the day do just let us know.
In winter Liathach offers many outstanding winter days out. The traditional traverse being a much sought after experience. In addition, the great corries on the northern flanks of the mountain hold many famous ice and mixed climbs including Twisting Gully (II), George (III 4) and Poachers Fall (V 5)
In order to provide the highest level of experience and safety we maintain low ratios for guided ascents. Below you can see the details. All trips are considered private bookings so you will not have to worry about the pace of others and will get a trip tailored to your individual needs.
| Ratio | Summer Traverse | Summer Bespoke |
|---|---|---|
| 1:1 | £245 | £285 |
| 1:2 | £140 per person | £155 per person |
| 1:3 | £95 per person | N/A * |
| 1:4 | £75 per person | N/A * |
| Ratio | Mountaineering & Climbing Price |
|---|---|
| 1:1 | £295 |
| 1:2 | £155 per person |
You should expect a full day with an ascent of the munros normally lasting 8 to 10 hours with more than 1000m of ascent. A good level of walking fitness and experience of hill walking elsewhere in the UK form a good prerequisite for walking on Liathach. In winter the mountain is even more challenging and you should expect to have some experience of winter walking before attempting an ascent.
You will need normal hill walking kit including sturdy footwear, waterproofs (jacket and trousers), food and warm clothing. Technical kit is available to borrow for your booking where required. Alternatively, you are welcome to bring your own subject to inspection by your guide to ensure its safety. A complete kit list is provided with each booking.
