Marilyn · North-West Highlands
Maiden Pap
At 484m in the far northeast near Helmsdale, this is the kind of hill that experienced walkers love — not famous, not crowded, but a proper summit with proper views.
Quick facts
- Height
- 484m/ 1587ft
- Difficulty
- 1 / 5Easy
- Grid ref
- ND 04832 29353
Download GPX route file
Standard route
Standard route
A steady ascent via rough paths through the emptiest landscape in mainland Britain to the 484m summit. The walking is straightforward with clear views opening up as you gain height. Allow 2-4 hours.
Terrain
Ancient Lewisian gneiss and Torridonian sandstone underfoot — some of the oldest rock in Europe. The terrain is rough and boggy between outcrops.
In winter
Winter in the northwest is characterised by wind, rain and occasional snow. The remoteness adds an extra dimension of seriousness to winter outings.
This hill is in the Torridon SAIS forecast area. Check SAIS forecasts in winter (December–April).
Best time of year
Getting there
- Glasgow6h 22m
- Edinburgh6h 2m
OS maps: OS Landranger 11, OS Landranger 17, OS Explorer 444E
Current conditions
Daylight Today
- Sunrise
- 05:19
- Sunset
- 21:04
- Civil dawn
- 04:30
- Civil dusk
- 21:53
NOAA Solar Calculator · 2 May 2026