Baosbheinn and Beinn an Eoin: the Forgotten Torridon Hills

Baosbheinn and Beinn an Eoin, two striking Corbetts nestled in the Flowerdale Forest area of Wester Ross, offer a truly rewarding adventure for hikers seeking a quieter alternative to the busier Torridon Munros. With their sandstone ridges, stunning coastal views, and far-reaching vistas of dramatic peaks like Liathach and Beinn Eighe, these hills are a hidden gem that deserve a place on any hillwalker’s itinerary. If you’ve long admired Torridon’s rugged beauty but prefer solitude to crowds, the Baosbheinn walk could be your perfect escape.

Unlike some of the more famous Torridon Munros, Baosbheinn (875m) and Beinn an Eoin (855m) see fewer visitors due to their remoteness and challenging terrain. However, this only adds to their charm. A full circuit bagging both typically ranges from 18 to 28km, with elevation gains between 1,200 and 1,680m, taking 7 to 9.5 hours depending on conditions and your chosen route. The walk begins near Loch Bad an Sgalaig, offering a mix of rugged tracks, pathless terrain, and rewarding ridge walks that showcase the grandeur of Wester Ross.

Route Overview

This hike is a moderate undertaking, but it demands good navigation skills and a reasonable level of fitness. Most routes begin from the rough track near the Green Shed by Loch Bad an Sgalaig. The initial few kilometres follow the stony track alongside Abhainn a’ Gharbh Choire, a scenic river that winds through boggy ground and unbridged crossings, which can be tricky in wet conditions or after heavy rain.

Once you reach the base of Beinn an Eoin, the terrain becomes pathless and steep. The ascent involves navigating loose rock and grassy slopes, eventually leading to the broad sandstone ridge that connects the summits. From Beinn an Eoin’s summit, the views are breathtaking: you’ll see Baosbheinn’s distinctive ridges and beyond to Torridon’s iconic peaks, including Slioch and Beinn Eighe. The traverse to Baosbheinn is undulating but straightforward, culminating in its summit cairn near NG87051 65408. A large rock slab lies just west of the cairn, marking the summit’s high point.

The Walk

Stage 1: Green Shed to Beinn an Eoin

Starting from the Green Shed, follow the track alongside Abhainn a’ Gharbh Choire. The first few kilometres provide a gentle introduction, though the terrain is uneven and boggy in places. Keep an eye out for unbridged stream crossings, particularly in spate conditions after rain. As you continue, the track fades, leaving you to navigate pathless slopes towards Beinn an Eoin. The ascent is a mix of grassy steps and loose sandstone, demanding focus and care.

Stage 2: Beinn an Eoin to Baosbheinn

At 855m, the summit of Beinn an Eoin provides a first reward: sweeping views of Torridon’s giants and the rugged coastline of Wester Ross. The sandstone ridge linking Beinn an Eoin to Baosbheinn is a joy to walk, offering varied terrain and magnificent vistas. Baosbheinn’s summit cairn lies at the ridge’s highest point, with a large rock slab marking its true high point.

Stage 3: Descent and Return

Several descent options are available, depending on your time and energy. Some hikers retrace their steps along the ridges, while others opt for a circuit that descends more directly towards Flowerdale Forest or Loch Bad an Sgalaig. Be prepared for rough ground and potentially strenuous sections as you make your way back to the track.

Getting There and Parking

Access to Baosbheinn and Beinn an Eoin is typically via minor roads from Torridon or Gairloch. For most walkers, the starting point near the Green Shed by Loch Bad an Sgalaig provides the easiest access. Parking is limited, and the road is narrow, so arriving early is advisable. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended for navigating the rough track leading to the trailhead, especially in winter conditions.

Key Takeaways

• Baosbheinn and Beinn an Eoin are quieter Corbetts in the Torridon area, offering solitude and stunning views.
• A full circuit covers 18-28km and requires good navigation skills and a moderate level of fitness.
• The sandstone ridges provide outstanding perspectives of Torridon’s iconic peaks, including Liathach and Beinn Eighe.
• Access is via minor roads, with parking near Loch Bad an Sgalaig; a 4x4 is recommended for rough tracks.
• Winter conditions demand extra caution: check avalanche risks and weather reports before setting out.

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard are Baosbheinn and Beinn an Eoin?

These hills are moderately challenging, with steep pathless sections and boggy terrain requiring good navigation skills. They are easier than most Torridon Munros but still demand fitness and preparation.

Are they worth climbing?

Absolutely. Their ridges offer spectacular views of Torridon’s famous peaks, plus peaceful hiking far from the crowds. For lovers of Scotland’s Corbetts, they are an essential addition to the list.

How long do they take?

A full circuit typically takes between 7 and 9.5 hours depending on route choice and conditions. Winter ascents or extended circuits may take longer.

Where do you start?

Most walkers begin near the Green Shed by Loch Bad an Sgalaig in the Flowerdale Forest area. This provides easy access to the track leading towards the hills.

If you’re planning a trip to Wester Ross, don’t miss our guide to Scotland’s Corbetts, which includes nearby peaks like Beinn Eighe and Beinn Alligin. Whether you’re chasing Corbett summits or simply looking for quieter alternatives to Torridon’s busier routes, Baosbheinn and Beinn an Eoin won’t disappoint.