Glen Shiel south ridge and Forcan Ridge - Sunday 14 June 2026
Glen Shiel south ridge
Two parties set out to the south ridge of Glen Shiel and its seven Munros. Kieran organised a small group that aimed to take in the full seven peaks and 27km from Loch Cluanie to Allt Coire Mhalagain. The second group set off up Drum Thollaidh to the midpoint of the ridge, to climb the westernmost three peaks.
Setting off at 10am to ensure the clouds cleared and views would be seen from all the tops, Chris, Hugh, Helen, Gill, Stuart and Martin traversed the boggy glen and picked their way up a stalkers track turned ATV route, with plenty of wild flowers in view.
Sgurr Choire na Fienne (not a top) was reached after 2h30, for first lunch. Wide, slightly hazy views to Knoydart and Loch Arkaig provided entertainment, trying to identify the peaks from a new angle. The ridge rose and fell by 100-200m as the group traversed along. A few midges on Sgurr na Doire Leathan, the shapely Sgurr an Lochain, over the intermediate Sgurr beag, just for fun, and then onto Creag nan Damh. Unfortunately the descents proved too much for Helen’s legs, which cramped a few times and required rehydration fluid.
The hot muggy conditions slowed the whole group down, but the fantastic views more than made up for the time taken. Only the midges really pushed the group on from rest stops. After refilling water bottles from a high spring, a short scramble on the descent led to the head of a stalkers path down to An Mhalagain, a seemingly endless 3-4km path. 15km, 1200m ascent, and most of us were very glad we didn't do all seven peaks, although the different was probably only another 400m of ascent (and 12km). The reward was a relaxed meal in the Loch Ness Inn on the way home, and to celebrate Chris ticking off Munros 281, 282 and 283 on her list. Only one to go!
Taking part: Group 1 – Kieran, Charlotte, Stela, Ryan; Group 2 – Chris, Hugh, Gill, Stuart, Helen, Martin
Words and Photos: Martin
Sgurr na Forcan, The Saddle and Sgurr na Signe via the North-East Ridge. Glenshiel
The idea of climbing two Munros, a Munro top and two grade 2 scrambles may have seemed a big ask, however this did not put off a team on a Sunday morning. A bit of creative path (coming across a Butterfly Orchid) navigation eventually saw the group (Mairi, Jan, Becky, Martyn, Nick. Prospective members Matt and Stuart and guest, Gareth- Martyn’s neighbour.) arrive at the base of the Forcan Ridge. This impressive grade 2 scramble doesn’t disappoint. With some interesting moves and a moderate down climb the group enjoyed some hands-on rock. Fortunately, the ground was reasonably dry, so the holds were on the whole good. Lunch was had at the summit of The Saddle. There were the odd snow patch lying around. Always good to see in June. The views were extensive, we could see Knoydart, The Ben and Skye.
The next part of the day saw a steep decent to Bealach Coire Mhalagain and then an ascent to the ridge between Faochag and Sgurr na Sgine. Then a traverse was made to the start of the North- West Ridge. Globe flowers were seen as the group made its way across. The ridge was much shorter than the Forcan and the rock more loose and greasy. However, it was a pleasant grade 2 scramble to the summit. Matt asked if the group would mind if he took some pictures from a drone, this was agreed. Matt managed this in an unobtrusive way. Then came the long and eventually steep descent via Faochag back to the road and transport home.
A good 9-hour day in the Scottish Mountains taking in the best the country can offer.
Taking part: Mairi, Jan, Becky, Martyn, Nick. Prospective members Matt and Stuart and guest, Gareth- Martyn’s neighbour.
Words: Martyn. Pictures: Martyn, Matt, Becky