Am Bastier 2

In the view from Sligachan, Am Basteir is the lower peak to the right of Sgurr nan Gillean with a prominent cleft and tower, The Bhasteir Tooth, to its right. It stands at the head of Coire a' Bhasteir and forms a narrow peak on the Main Ridge, its north face almost vertical and its south face above Lota Corrie only slightly less steep. The easiest route to Am Basteir is the east ridge, which is its left-hand ridge as seen from Sligachan, but a recent rockfall on the crest of this ridge has left a difficult gap to be crossed and a rope should be taken to safeguard this passage.

From Sligachan follow the path, which is also the route to Sgurr nan Gillean, southwards across the moor for about 3½ kilometres. Before reaching Coire Riabhach climb south-west onto the low rounded ridge which overlooks the Bhasteir Gorge and go up it towards the foot of the Pinnacle Ridge. Before reaching the lower rocks of this ridge, bear rightwards to make a rising traverse across scree, grass and slabby rocks to the Bealach a' Bhasteir. From this col scramble up the east ridge of Am Basteir, which becomes narrower and more exposed until a gap is reached where recent rockfall has left a difficult descent. Go down a sloping ledge on the south side of the ridge until it is possible to climb down to a lower ledge from which it is easy to return to the crest. The summit is a short distance further.

(Copyright The Scottish Mountaineering Club)