Carn Eige and Mam Sodhail topographical map
The approaches to the western end of this range vary. Many people, content with a single days outing will make their approach up Gleann nam Fiadh. However there are those wanting to make their approach from the west from Sgurr nan Ceathreamhnan or from the western end of Loch Mullardoch. Both these approach routes are uncomplicated however in the latter case, you will need to cross the river Abhainn a' Choilich which may be tricky in wet weather. From loch mullardoch, the quickest route to the ridges is to aim for the saddle between Carn Eige and Beinn Fhionnlaidh. Beinn Fhionnlaidh is the most remote summit to access, and a lengthy detour from Carn Eige. It's frequently left out of itineraries and for those counting their munros, it requires a lot of determination to climb at a later date if it's left out the first time round. In spite of this it offers a fine view down Loch Mullardoch. The ascent of the summit is uncomplicated from the saddle with Carn Eige. The eastern ridge of Mam Sodhail terminates on the munro top of Sgurr na Lapaich, it's an undulating ridge that's well defined but not scrambly. The ridge going east from Carn Eige offers by contrast a mixture of plateau and narrow scrambling. It's surely the finest walk to traverse in Affric. The ridge broadens out again but then drops steeply before tackling the munros of Tom a' Choinich and Toll Creagach.
Eastern Affric Ridge topographical map
The two closer summits, Tom' Choinich and Toll Creagach, form an easier day. Toll Creagach is very featureless and the corries merge seamlessly with the broad whaleback ridges. It would provide an ideal opportunity to practice winter navigation without too much fear of falling off something nasty. By Contrast, Tom a' Choinich has a fine eastern corrie. The western ridge from Tom a' Choinich to the saddle with Carn Eige is a fine one. The western view takes in this ridge leading west to the pinnacle ridge east of Carn Eige with the waters of Loch a' Choire Dhomhain nestling below.
The descent from Toll Creagach is most frequently done down to Glen Affric. A path can be intercepted in Gleann nan Fiadh taking you down to the road. The northern descent from this munro down to Loch Mullardoch however is tough. The descent is best made into Froach Choire from Toll Creagach's eastern saddle. Lower down, the heather becomes very deep in the forest. You should avoid the temptation to follow the shore, as this ends up in a cliff. It's best to cross a deer fence and continue east past the road before dropping down. The end of the road is guarded by a long cliff.  Toll Creagach seen from Tom a' Choinich For easier days, the foothills of Affric provide some more relaxing walks from where you can appreciate full size of the bigger hills. They're all generally rounded and often the lower slopes are guarded by plantations. Beinn a' Chairein is the last summit before the great Affric ridge descends into Cannich, from here the full extent of the vastness of the wilderness west of where your're standing becomes apparent.Many simply visit Glen Affric because of its reputation as being the finest glen in Scotland. And very fine it is too with its exquisite blend of extensive Caledonian forest, loch, rapids, distant mountains, and wildlife songs echoing across Loch Mheadhoin. Yes, it's a real treat to be here on a fine spring day.
Sgurr nan Ceathreamham topographical map
Meanwhile, further away still, it is possible to visit Sgurr nan Ceathreamhnan - regarded by as the most beautiful summit in Scotland - via an overnight stay wild camping or in Glen Affric Youth Hostel. |
