Hikes/United Kingdom/Scotland/Loch Lomond and The Trossachs

Difficulty

Very Hard

Elevation

1,019 m

Distance

12.5 km

Duration

5-7h

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Cruach Ardrain and Beinn Tulaichean Walk

Cruach Ardrain, Stob Garbh and Beinn Tulaichean Walk

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The Cruach Ardrain and Beinn Tulaichean Walk is a superb hillwalk from Inverlochlarig, located near Balquhidder. The 12.5 km walk features two ascents to the summits of Beinn Tulaichean (946m) and Cruach Ardrain (1,046 m), from where you’ll unlock remarkable views out over the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. This walk is best reserved for experienced hillwalkers seeking a challenging ascent, as sections of the trail are pathless and boggy. Proper footwear is a must for this one, as well as crampons and an ice axe for those wishing to do this walk during the winter months.

Route Description for Cruach Ardrain and Beinn Tulaichean Walk

Prepare to be wowed by incredible mountain scenery on the Cruach Ardrain and Beinn Tulaichean Walk, which unfolds across stunning Highland landscape. The 12.5 km walk features the exciting ascent of two challenging Munros followed by tough descents. Some sections of the trail will be pathless and or boggy, making this a walk best suited for those with some hillwalking experience.

The Cruach Ardrain and Beinn Tulaichean Walk begins from the car park found at the end of the public road near Loch Voil. You’ll leave the car park via the track found on the north side of the glen and make your way towards the farm at Inverlochlarig. Up ahead, you’ll spot Beinn Tulachean, looking majestic and beckoning you forward. The track soon crosses a bridge, leading you over the burn, and through a stile to join a riverside path. Another gate soon leads you up towards the bumpy ridge, which you can then climb to avoid some serious boggy sections on the mountain's base. Reach the large cairn on the left and continue up the slopes. Once you reach 804.7 km, you’ll spot a fence that splices the slope, pass through the gate and continue uphill. You’ll soon reach the summit, where you’ll spot another cairn on top of a rugged outcrop. Enjoy the splendid views, most notably Ben More and Stob Binnein, then continue the walk by following the path along the ridge, headed towards Cruach Ardrain. From the bealach, a rather straightforward climb leads you to the second summit, marked by a small cair. Admire the expansive views out to Coire Àrdrain and beyond to Crianlarich. Retrace your steps to return to the bealach and spot the small cairn that marks the path leading down the eastern slopes. Continue downhill, soon reaching a grassy track on the glen’s floor, which you’ll turn right on to continue south, back to Inverlochlarig farm. A signpost marks the spot where you’ll depart from the track, and you’ll then continue on an outward route to return to the car park where the walk began.

Getting to the Cruach Ardrain and Beinn Tulaichean Walk Trailhead

To get to the Cruach Ardrain and Beinn Tulaichean Walk from Crianlarich, head southeast on the A85 toward Meadow Grove and continue for 25.7 km. Continue straight onto A84, then proceed with a left turn, a right turn, a slight left, and a final left turn to reach the car park at the end of the public road found just beyond Loch Voil where the walk begins.

Route Information

When to do:
Year-Round Access
Backcountry Campsites:
Wild camping (permit required)
Pets allowed:
Yes
Family friendly:
No
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
Moderate
Route Type:
Lollipop