Beinn a' Chlaidheimh

Beinn a' Chlaidheimh
Ross-shire, Cromartyshire
Range:	Fisherfield Forest
Summit:	2,999 feet NH061775 57°44’43"N, 5°15’34"W

Beinn a' Chlaidheimh is a mountain in the Fisherfield Forest of Ross-shire, which reaches a height of 2,999 feet at its summit, and so it narrowly fails to qualify as a Munro. The measured height has changed several times though: it was originally listed amongst the Munros, but later downgraded as a summit height of 2,999 feet was measured. Later though a new measurement put it at 3,005 feet above sea level and so Beinn a' Chlaidheimh was duly enrolled on the list of Munros and remained there for many years. Later measurements differed, putting the height just above or below the 3,000-foot level. The latest accepted measurement is that the mountain reaches 2,999 feet, making it a 'Corbett' but not a Munro.

The remote, trackless Fisherfield Forest leaves its mountains hard to reach, and Beinn a' Chlaidheimh is no exception. It is in the north-east corner of the Forest, overlooking Loch na Sealga to the northwest.

Geography

The summit ridge runs south-west to north-east, terminating at its north-east end at Strath na Sealga and Shenvall bothy which is worth a stay. The northern end of the summit ridge has several crags and care must be taken if using this route (this is the most common route of ascent).

The southern ridge stretches out for two miles, dropping to a low col before connecting with neighbouring Munro, Sgùrr Bàn; some climb the two together but perhaps Sgùrr Bàn is best tackled with its neighbours amongst the southern Fisherfield Munros.

The western face of the mountain rises from Gleann na Muice a deep glen separating the eastern and western mountain groups of the Fisherfield Forest. This face is steep and often craggy, particularly surrounding the summit. The eastern slopes are less intimidating but are rarely used.

Ascent and summit views

Most approaches to the mountain are made from the north, on the A832 road at Corrie Hall. A good set of Land Rover tracks lead to its north-east ridge, from which the climb begins.

The best views from Beinn a' Chlaidheimh are down the lovely Loch na Sealga and across to An Teallach, a breathtaking massif with two Munro summits. The views west to the other hills of Fisherfield are also superb.

From here the wild, trackless emptiness of the Forest can be appreciated.

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