Aonach Mor and Aonach Beag: Ben Nevis's Neighbours

For hillwalkers seeking a worthy challenge near the iconic Ben Nevis, Aonach Mòr and Aonach Beag offer a spectacular day out in one of the most dramatic areas of the Scottish Highlands. These two Munros, the eighth and seventh highest peaks in Britain respectively, stand shoulder-to-shoulder just east of Ben Nevis. While they may lack the fame of their neighbour, their remote beauty, sweeping views and exhilarating ridge traverse make them a rewarding choice for experienced walkers.

Whether you tackle the full ascent from the Nevis Range ski centre or use the summer gondola to ease the climb, this is a strenuous but unforgettable route that showcases the grandeur of the Lochaber region. The featureless plateau of Aonach Mòr contrasts with the narrow, rugged ridge leading to Aonach Beag, while views of the Mamores, the Grey Corries and the mighty Ben Nevis keep you in awe throughout the day.

Route Overview

The standard route begins at the Nevis Range ski centre car park, located just off the A82 north of Fort William. The full ascent is around 14.6 kilometres with a challenging 1,394 metres of elevation gain, taking between seven and nine hours depending on fitness and conditions. For those wishing to conserve energy, the gondola offers a convenient way to shave off roughly 600 metres of ascent, starting your walk at 655 metres above sea level.

From the gondola’s top station, the route climbs gently across Aonach Mòr’s broad summit plateau before descending to a bealach (col) and rising steeply again to Aonach Beag. While the walk involves no technical scrambling, the terrain is demanding, particularly on the ascent to Aonach Beag, where steep cliffs and snow cornices may be present. Strong navigation skills and proper preparation are essential, especially in poor weather on Aonach Mòr’s flat, featureless summit.

The Walk

Stage 1: Nevis Range to Aonach Mòr

If starting from the Nevis Range car park, the initial climb is steep and relentless, following a path up the Aonach an Nid ridge. While the path is clear near the start, it becomes eroded and boggy in places before leading onto the open hillside. The gondola, operational during the summer, offers a more manageable alternative, whisking you up to its top station near 655 metres.

From the gondola station, a clear path leads east across Aonach Mòr’s wide plateau towards its summit, marked by a prominent cairn (grid ref. NN 184 746). This section is straightforward under good conditions but can be disorienting in mist or snow. Stay well away from the northern edges, where steep drops into the ski area lie hidden, and use a compass or GPS to maintain your bearings.

Stage 2: Traversing to Aonach Beag

From Aonach Mòr’s summit, descend south to the bealach at approximately 1,100 metres (grid ref. NN 182 739). The path here is rocky but clear, with stunning views opening up towards the Mamores, including the striking peak of Binnein Mòr. The climb from the bealach to Aonach Beag is short but steep, following a narrow ridge that requires care in icy or windy conditions. Snow cornices often linger on Aonach Beag’s eastern side well into spring, so stay central on the path for safety.

Aonach Beag’s summit (grid ref. NN 179 737) is marked by a smaller cairn perched on a narrow ridge. From here, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views: the Grey Corries lie to the east, the Mamores to the south, and Ben Nevis looms to the west. It’s a spectacular spot to pause and soak in the scale of the surrounding peaks.

Stage 3: Return to Nevis Range

The return route retraces your steps back over Aonach Mòr to the gondola station or car park. The gentle ascent from the bealach to Aonach Mòr feels more challenging on tired legs, but the broad plateau allows you to take it at your own pace. If using the gondola, check the operating hours to ensure you have enough time to descend before it closes. Without the gondola, the steep descent to the car park via Aonach an Nid ridge can be strenuous, particularly in poor weather.

Getting There and Parking

The Nevis Range ski centre is easily accessible from the A82, around 10 minutes’ drive north of Fort William. The car park is spacious, with facilities including toilets and a café. Campervans are allowed to park overnight, making it a convenient base for early starts. Public transport options include seasonal buses to Glen Nevis youth hostel, but these require additional walking to reach the ski centre.

Key Takeaways

• This is a strenuous walk: 14.6 km and 1,394 m of ascent (or less with gondola).
• Navigation is crucial: Aonach Mòr’s plateau can be disorienting in poor visibility.
• Steep terrain: The climb to Aonach Beag is short but demanding, with cliffs to the east.
• Stunning views: Enjoy vistas of Ben Nevis, the Mamores, and the Grey Corries.
• Accessible start point: Nevis Range car park offers parking and gondola access.

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard are Aonach Mòr and Aonach Beag? These Munros are rated as strenuous. The ascent from the car park is steep, and the ridge to Aonach Beag is challenging. Good fitness and navigation skills are required.

Can you use the gondola? Yes, the gondola operates in summer, reducing the climb by around 600 metres. Check the Nevis Range website for schedules and fares.

How long does the walk take? With the gondola, the walk takes around 7-8 hours. The full ascent from the car park takes 9+ hours, depending on conditions and fitness.

Are Aonach Mòr and Aonach Beag harder than Ben Nevis? The route is comparable to Ben Nevis via the Mountain Track in terms of effort. However, the featureless plateau and ridge terrain make it more technically demanding.

For walkers looking to extend their adventure, consider linking this route with the CMD Arete for a traverse to Ben Nevis, or exploring nearby ranges such as the Mamores or the Grey Corries. Whatever option you choose, the Aonachs promise a memorable day in the heart of the Highlands.