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Munro · Central Highlands

An Riabhachan

An Riabhachan (1129m) is a Munro set in the country between Killilan to Inverness. Its 302m of re-ascent gives it a distinct identity — this is no subsidiary top but a hill worth visiting in its own right. The summit, marked by a large cairn, gives views of wide panoramas across the Highland interior toward the Cairngorms and the west coast. The nearest town is Inverness in Highland.

Quick facts

Height
1129m/ 3704ft
Distance
18 km
Ascent
994 m
Time
5.3 hrs
Difficulty
5 / 5Expert
Grid ref
NH133344
Parking
NH152344
Nearest city
Inverness

Download GPX route file

Standard route · 18km

GPX coming soon

Standard route

The standard route is a longer walk with a gradual approach covering approximately 18km with 994m of total ascent — a long and demanding day. Lower slopes cross blanket bog, rough grass and heather on broad open moor. Higher up, the terrain changes to rounded summits of peat and short grass, occasionally rocky. Stalkers' paths and landrover tracks provide the main access — above them, the ground is open and featureless. The summit is marked by a large cairn.

Terrain

Above 700m the ground is fully exposed to weather from all directions. Stalkers' paths and landrover tracks provide the main access — above them, the ground is open and featureless. The connecting ridges to adjacent hills are well-defined but involve noticeable re-ascent.

In winter

In winter, An Riabhachan is a serious proposition. Exposed to persistent cold winds. Snow cover is less reliable than the west but drifting can be severe on the open plateau. Short winter days mean an early start is essential, particularly on longer routes.

SAIS Creag Meagaidh: Check the avalanche forecast before heading out in winter. Full forecast ↗

Best time of year

Getting there

  • Glasgow3h 22m
  • Edinburgh4h 46m
Parking: NH152344

OS maps: OS Landranger 25

Current conditions

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Daylight Today

16h 35mwalking daylight
Sunrise
05:46
Sunset
20:51
Civil dawn
05:01
Civil dusk
21:36

NOAA Solar Calculator · 25 April 2026

Trip reports

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