Aonach Beag

The Aonachs form a high ridge several kilometres long lying to the east of Ben Nevis and Carn Mor Dearg. The south end of this ridge rises from Glen Nevis over the peak of Sgurr a' Bhuic to the great dome of Aonach Beag. To its north there is a high col, beyond which the long level ridge of Aonach Mor continues to the wide north-facing corrie which is the site of a major downhill skiing development, with ski tows and lifts. The east and west sides of the Aonach Beag - Aonach Mor ridge are continuously steep and craggy, with several fine corries.

Ignoring the gondola which can take one half way up Aonach Mor in a few minutes, the best approach to these mountains is from the end of the public road in Glen Nevis. Follow the path through the splendid Nevis gorge and on along the north side of the Water of Nevis to the ruins of Steall. From there climb north-east up a broad ridge to Sgurr a' Bhuic and continue over Stob Coire Bhealaich to Aonach Beag. Descend to the col and continue north up the gradually rising slope to Aonach Mor.

The quickest descent is to continue north along the level ridge and down the skiers' corrie to the top of the gondola and ride down to the forest, but this is a long way from Glen Nevis. To return to the starting point, go south from Aonach Mor for 1 kilometre, then descend east down a steep ill-defined spur to the col at the head of Coire Giubhsachan. Go down this corrie to the Steall ruins and the path down Glen Nevis.

(Copyright The Scottish Mountaineering Club)