Càrn Liath (Beinn a' Ghlò)

Crawford Macnab

23 August 2023

Marion and both Moira’s unfortunately had to call off but this still left a group of 7 consisting of the three “Stewart/Stewart/Stuart"s, Lesley, Crawford, Willie and Sheila.

An excellent new car park has recently been created at the walk start which more than triples the previous available parking space. After sorting out the correct car park fee (avoiding the £15 minibus fee!), the group set off towards the day’s Munro - Càrn Liath.

The walk started with a gentle warm up on a track which soon revealed views of the lovely Loch Moraig.

Before too long a fork was reached and we left the track to head towards Càrn Liath. The forecast was for clouds from about 700m so it was very promising to see the top.

Although this was a steep ascent the going was made easier with a pitched path almost all the way to the top. A steady pace with plenty of stops ensured good progress was made though as height was gained we could see clouds approaching from the south west. With a final push the top was reached giving a brief view before the clouds finally arrived.

Waterproof jackets were donned and lunch taken at the top while sheltering from some light rain. Although now entirely in the clouds, the decision was taken to descend by continuing along the ridge as originally planned rather than retracing our steps. This proved to be a good choice as we soon had to stop and take layers off as the clouds lifted. The 2nd munro on the Beinn a' Ghlò range, Bràigh Coire Chruinn-bhalgain emerging out of the clouds.

From the bealach there was a pretty good path descending around the south east flank of Càrn Liath staying on the west side of the Allt Coire na Saobhaidh. To our east we could see a herd of deer watching us from the safety of the south ridge of Beinn Bheag.

Eventually we reached the main Beinn a' Ghlò return path at 449m and followed this for the 5km back to the car park.

A very enjoyable Munro walk with the added bonus of better than expected weather!

Thanks,
Crawford.