Marilyn · kintail
Carn a' Bhodaich
The name means 'cairn' in Gaelic. A 501m hill within reach of Inverness, the Highland capital with at least 150m of prominence — enough to feel like a real summit rather than a shoulder. The modest height belies the quality of the walking.
Gaelic: “stony, cairn-topped hill” · Pronunciation: karn
Quick facts
- Height
- 501m/ 1643ft
- Difficulty
- 2 / 5Moderate
- Grid ref
- NH 56989 37497
Download GPX route file
Standard route
Standard route
A steady ascent through Glen Shiel or surrounding glens with views to the Kintail peaks to the 501m summit. The walking is straightforward with clear views opening up as you gain height. Allow 2-4 hours.
Terrain
Open hillside with a mix of heather, grass and rough ground. Paths are intermittent.
In winter
Winter brings variable conditions. Snow possible on the summit from December to February. The short days require an early start.
Best time of year
Getting there
- Glasgow4h 1m
- Edinburgh5h 52m
OS maps: OS Landranger 26, OS Explorer 416N
Current conditions
Daylight Today
- Sunrise
- 05:26
- Sunset
- 21:03
- Civil dawn
- 04:38
- Civil dusk
- 21:51
NOAA Solar Calculator · 2 May 2026