Sgurr na Ciche

One of three mountains (the other two being Sgurr nan Coireachan and Garbh Chioch Mhor) which are situated between upper Glen Dessarry and the head of Loch Nevis. They are the westward extension of the long ridge on the south side of Loch Quoich which starts far to the east at Gairich and includes Sgurr Mor. Sgurr nan Coireachan stands at the point where this long ridge changes its character dramatically, for to its west the peaks become extremely wild and rocky, in marked contrast to the smoother outlines of those further east. Garbh Chioch Mhor has a long rocky summit ridge whose north flank has great expanses of slabby rock dipping down to Coire nan Gall. The finest of these three mountains, however, is Sgurr na Ciche, whose steep conical peak is one of the most familiar landmarks of the western highlands. Rock is everywhere on this mountain, and from the water's edge at the head of Loch Nevis, the west ridge rises in a single sweep to the pointed summit.

The traverse of these three mountains is a fine expedition. The end of the public road at the head of Loch Arkaig is one possible starting point, quite a long way from the mountains, and A'Chuil bothy a few kilometres up Glen Dessarry has the advantage of being a bit closer. Go up the glen to cross the Allt Coire nan Uth and climb the south ridge of Sgurr nan Coireachan. Traverse west along the very rocky crest of Garbh Chioch Mhor and descend north-west to the col below Sgurr na Ciche. The ascent of this peak from the col follows a tenuous path through rocks, crags and boulders. Return to the col and descend a narrow gully south-westwards. At its foot turn left and traverse south-east along grassy slopes to descend to the pass at the head of Glen Dessarry.

(Copyright The Scottish Mountaineering Club)