Sgorr Ruadh

Sgorr Ruadh
Ross-shire
Sgorr Ruadh seen from Beinn Liath Mhòr
Range:	Torridon Hills
Summit:	3,156 feet NG959505 57°29’55"N, 5°24’28"W

Sgorr Ruadh is a mountain of Ross-shire, standing in the mountainous area between Strath Carron and Glen Torridon in Wester Ross. It reaches a height of 3,156 feet and is therefore a Munro.

Sgorr Ruadh is in Coire Lair near Achnashellach along with two other fine mountains, Beinn Liath Mhòr and Fuar Tholl, and is often climbed in conjunction with one or both of these other mountains.

The name "Sgorr Ruadh" is from the Gaelic tongue, and means "Red Peak".

Geography

Sgurr Ruadh is an attractive peak, made up of red sandstone (hence its name of "Red Peak") and shows many of the characteristics of the Torridon Hills to the west, in that it has steep terraced buttresses and considerable scree slopes. The north-west face has precipitous cliffs which should be avoided by walkers, although these crags attract rock climbers with around 20 recognised traditional and winter climbs. The centre of the crag is split by a large gully. There are plenty of easier routes on the crag.

Ascent

View from the top

Direct ascents of Sgorr Ruadh are usually started from Achnashellach in Glen Carron, although it is possible to approach from Glen Torridon on a considerably longer and rougher route. From Achnnashellach the right of way which goes up Coire Lair to Torridon is taken for a mile and a half where a cairn indicates a path bearing left which crosses the River Lair (the river often requires wading) and climbs to the top of the Bhealaich Mhoir, the pass between Sgorr Ruadh and Fuar Tholl . From the top of the pass it is a 300-yard climb to the summit, by-passing the many buttresses and gullies on the way.

The summit cairn stands in a spectacular position on the edge of sheer slopes and gives spectacular all round views. The two nearby Munros of Beinn Liath Mhòr and Maol Chean-dearg are well seen as are the Torridon mountains to the west. Many walkers will continue to the adjoining Munro of Beinn Liath Mhòr after climbing Sgorr Ruadh, this is not a straight forward walk as there are areas of crags and high rock steps at the foot of the pass between the two mountains.

References

• Torridon, A Walker's Guide: Peter Barton: Cicerone Press: ISBN 1-85284-022-6
• The Munros, SMC Guide: Donald Bennett et al.: Scottish Mountaineering Trust: ISBN 0-907521-13-4
  

Munros in SMC Area SMC Section 13 - Coulin and Torridon
Beinn Liath Mhòr • Maol Chean-dearg • [Liathach