Buachaille Etive Beag Hike

Hike overview

The Buachaille Etive Beag hike, which means "little shepherd of Etive" in Gaelic, allows you to climb two Munros connected by a magnificent 3-kilometer-long ridge: Stob Coire Raineach (925 m) and Stob Dubh (958 m), the mountain's highest point.

Located in the iconic Glencoe Valley, this hike rewards you with exceptional views of Loch Etive and the surrounding peaks, including the iconic Buachaille Etive Mòr, Aonach Eagach, and Bidean nam Bian. This route is an excellent introduction to the Glencoe Valley mountains, as it is more accessible than most of its neighbors.

Difficulties of the hike

Although the trail is unmarked, it is well-trodden and easy to follow. The passage of numerous hikers has formed a clear and obvious path along the entire route. The ascent to the Mam Buidhe Pass is on a well-maintained trail maintained by the National Trust for Scotland with rocky steps that make it easier to climb. Walking along the ridge is very pleasant and offers magnificent panoramas. It is technically easy and not vertiginous.

What you'll love

  • The breathtaking views from the summits: You can admire Loch Etive stretching southward, the Glencoe valley to the north, and identify the iconic peaks around you, such as Bidean nam Bian and the majestic Buachaille Etive Mòr nearby.
  • The unforgettable ridge crossing between the two peaks: A panoramic walking experience in a high mountain atmosphere for about three kilometers.
  • The accessibility of this hike compared to other Glencoe routes: It's an excellent choice for climbing two Munros in one day thanks to its well-maintained trail.

Hike technical sheet

Activity: Hiking
Difficulty: ModerateiDifficulty levels explained here:
➡️ Hiking parameters
Average duration: 5 hiFind out how we calculate the duration here:
➡️ Hiking parameters
Length: 8.5 km
Type of route: Out and back
Elevation gain: 950 m
Maximum altitude: 958 m
Vertiginous: SlightlyiVertiginous levels explained here:
➡️ Hiking parameters
Marked: No
Popularity: Moderate
Region: Glencoe
Start point: 56.66273, -4.95859

Map and elevation profile of the hike

Buachaille Etive Beag Hike