Aonach Eagach Ridge
Mainland Britain's narrowest ridge — a sustained, exposed scramble high above Glencoe with no escape.
Overview
The Aonach Eagach is the most celebrated ridge scramble on the British mainland, a notched crest of pinnacles linking the Munros Meall Dearg and Sgorr nam Fiannaidh high above Glencoe. Once on the ridge proper there is no safe way off until the far end — it is a serious, committing day.
Sustained grade-2 scrambling with severe exposure makes this strictly for experienced, confident scramblers with a strong head for heights, or those going with a guide. In the wrong conditions it is genuinely dangerous; in the right ones it is the trip of a lifetime.
Best of this route
- Knife-edge ridge
- Sustained scrambling
- Two Munros
Good to know
Best time to walk
Late spring to early autumn for the walking; the glen is at its most atmospheric when low cloud drifts between the peaks.
Ideal seasons: Summer, Autumn
Getting there
Glencoe sits on the A82 between Glasgow and Fort William, around two hours from Glasgow. The visitor centre is a useful starting point.
What to bring
- Sturdy walking boots
- Waterproof jacket & warm layers
- Plenty of water & snacks
- Map / GPS or phone with offline maps
- Walking poles
- Full waterproofs & spare insulating layers
- Head torch, whistle & first-aid kit
- Hat, gloves & sun protection
Fitness & experience
Serious mountain terrain for experienced hill-walkers with navigation skills.
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