The Brack and Cnoc Còinnich Walk

Difficulty
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Very Hard
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
5.5-8h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
15.5 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
1,086 m
User Ratings
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Directions to Trailhead

Rugged paths, steep ascents, and spellbinding scenery sum up The Brack and Cnoc Còinnich Walk best. The 15.5 km trail is not your average walk in the park but brings the heat with two challenging climbs to reach two incredible summits with a total ascent of 1,086 m. This walk features some of the most iconic views down to Loch Long, and the peaks that paint the horizon around the summits are innumerable.

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Route Description for The Brack and Cnoc Còinnich Walk

The Brack and Cnoc Còinnich Walk in Ardgartan, UK, is the perfect hillwalk for those seeking a challenge. The route features two breathtaking summits atop The Brack (787 m) and Cnoc Còinnich (764 m), granting walkers incredible views of the surrounding peaks and sparkling Loch Long. The going is rugged, and the path faint and even non-existent at times, so you’ll want to ensure you’ve got some hillwalking experience under your belt before tackling this walk. If tackling this route during the winter months, crampons and an ice-axe is a must.

Set out from the Ardgartan Forestry visitor centre to begin the walk, heading up the forest trail where you’ll be greeted by stunning views of The Cobbler. A little further on, you’ll spot the North Face of The Brack as you continue to climb towards a higher track. Some high crags pave the way further on as you navigate an expansive, grassy rake that leads to the mountain’s shoulder. Refresh yourself with a splash from the pretty lochan that soon appears as you take in the views over Loch Long and out towards Glen Douglas that have now opened up. The first summit you’ll reach is the Brack, from where the views of Beinn Narnain and Ben Lomond are nothing short of breathtaking. Retrace your steps to soon join the Cowal Way, which sets you up to ascend the north ridge of Cnoc Còinnich. Reaching the summit, you’ll find yourself in a front-row seat to take in the splendour of the surrounding Arrochar Alps, all the way out to the Firth of Clyde and even beyond. Retrace the path that leads back down to the ridge where you’ll rejoin the Cowal Way, continuing on the return route. Return to the Ardgartan Forestry Car Park, where the walk began, and pat yourself on the back for bagging two fine Scottish Corbetts!

Getting to the The Brack and Cnoc Còinnich Walk Trailhead

To get to The Brack and Cnoc Còinnich Walk from Arrochar, head north on the A83 towards the A814 and continue for 4.7 km. Turn left, and then another left to enter the Ardgartan Visitor Center car park, where the walk begins.

Route Information

  • When to do

    Year-round access

  • Pets allowed

    Yes

  • Family friendly

    No

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Lollipop

The Brack and Cnoc Còinnich Walk Elevation Graph

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The Brack and Cnoc Còinnich Walk Reviews

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