Aonach Eagach Guide
Glen Coe, Scotland
4 out of 5: Difficult
Up to 9 Hours
From £300
Aonach Eagach Overview
The Aonach Eagach is often described as the narrowest and most exposed ridge scramble in mainland Britain, although An Teallach and the Liathach Traverse must run close. This famous Glencoe route stretches across 10 kilometers, linking the two Munros of Meall Dearg and Sgorr nam Fiannaidh. Known for its dramatic views and hands-on exposed scrambling, it’s a true highlight of Scotland’s finest scrambles.
As you traverse the ridge, you’ll encounter challenging rocky sections graded at around 2/3 and at times ‘moderate’ graded rock climbing, breathtaking vistas over Loch Leven, and the rugged beauty of the surrounding Glen Coe and Lochaber Munros, including Ben Nevis, the Mamores, and Bidean nam Bian.
Hiring a guide from North West Mountaineering ensures you have expert support to safely navigate these technical sections, including the exposed scrambles and narrow ridges that make the Aonach Eagach one of Scotland’s most iconic routes. With their in-depth knowledge of Glencoe and experience in guiding on the Aonach Eagach Ridge, our guides provide the confidence and expertise needed for a safe and unforgettable day in the Highlands. Whether you’re a seasoned hillwalker or a first-time scrambler, we tailor the experience to suit your needs, ensuring you get the most out of this exhilarating route.
Length
Guided ascents of the Aonach Eagach are often between 8 and 9 hours.
Cost
Our private guided Aonoch Eagach days start at £300 per day for one person with a maximum size of 2 people.
1 Person - £300
2 People - £320
Experience Needed
The Aonach Eagach Ridge is suitable for those with a good level of fitness and some experience with hillwalking. Prior scrambling experience is beneficial, but it’s not a requirement—our guides will provide all the coaching and support you need.
When
Whenever suits you. Get in touch!
Guided Traverse of Aonach Eagach
The Aonach Eagach Ridge is renowned as one of Scotland’s most challenging and exposed ridge scrambles (behind the Cuillin Ridge), offering an unforgettable experience in the heart of Glencoe.
Stretching along the dramatic northern edge of the Glencoe valley, this iconic route combines technical scrambling with breathtaking mountain views including north towards Ben Nevis and Lochaber and south towards Bidean nam Bian, the highest Munro in Glencoe.
As you traverse the ridge, you’ll encounter some of the narrowest sections in mainland Britain, adding to the excitement of the traverse. Along the way, you’ll also summit two Munros, Meall Dearg and Sgorr nam Fiannaidh, adding to the collection of 282 Munros.Your Aonach Eagach Travese begins at the small parking area on the north side of the A82 near Allt-na-reigh. You'll likely meet your Aonoch Eagach guide in the village of Glencoe and prior to starting, we'll drop a vehicle where we'll descend back into the glen.
From the small parking area , the route ascends towards Am Bodach, where we can choose a steep direct path or a more gradual route alongside the Allt Ruigh. Reaching the summit of Am Bodach offers breathtaking views and marks the start of the ridge traverse.
The descent from Am Bodach involves a steep, sloping rock face that requires careful navigation, especially in wet conditions, before the path narrows and leads to Meall Dearg, the first Munro of the day.
From Meall Dearg, the ridge becomes more technical, with numerous scrambles and exposed sections, including the challenging “Pinnacles,” demanding both focus and care. After the scrambling ends, the ridge broadens, leading to Stob Coire Lèith and then to Sgorr nam Fiannaidh, the highest point on the ridge at 967 meters, offering stunning views of Glen Coe and beyond.
The descent follows a westward path down the ridge, avoiding the dangerous Clachaig Gully, eventually joining the Pap of Glencoe path to return to the valley floor.
The Aonach Eagach Ridge is suitable for those with a good level of fitness and experience with hillwalking. Prior scrambling experience is beneficial, but it’s not a requirement—our North West Mountaineering guides will provide all the coaching and support you need. While the exposure on the ridge can be intimidating, our small group sizes and personalised guidance ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
If you’re unsure about your readiness for the ridge, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re happy to discuss your experience and help you decide if the Aonach Eagach is right for you.
At Northwest Mountaineering we run our guided Aonoch Eagach Traverses throughout the spring and summer. Conditions often allow between April and October.
Prices
Our private guided Aonoch Eagach Traverses start at £300 per day for one person with a maximum size of 2 people.
1 Person - £300
2 People - £320
Book Your Aonoch Eagach Guide
The Aonach Eagach Ridge in the Scottish Highlands is one of the most challenging and exhilarating ridge walks on mainland Britain. This iconic mountaineering route requires good fitness, solid hillwalking experience, and confidence on exposed and technical terrain. With expert guidance from North West Mountaineering, you’ll receive coaching through the toughest sections of the Aonach Eagach Ridge. Book your guided adventure with North West Mountaineering today and discover the excitement of this famous ridge walk.
