Beinn an Eoin and Beinn a' Chaisgein Mor: Great Wilderness Corbetts

Beinn an Eoin and Beinn a' Chaisgein Mòr, two remote Corbetts nestled in the Great Wilderness of Scotland, offer an unparalleled hiking experience for seasoned walkers seeking solitude and rugged beauty. These peaks, located in the Fisherfield and Letterewe regions, are not for the faint-hearted. Their remoteness, challenging terrain, and lengthy approaches mean they are best tackled by those with strong navigation skills, excellent fitness, and a love for true wilderness. The rewards: breathtaking views, utter tranquillity, and a deep sense of accomplishment.

The area is often overshadowed by the likes of the Fisherfield Six or An Teallach, but these Corbetts hold their own, offering a quieter yet equally dramatic experience. Beinn a’ Chaisgein Mòr’s rolling summit plateaus showcase views to Munros such as Ruadh Stac Mòr and A’ Mhaighdean, while Beinn an Eoin provides coastal panoramas of the Torridon region. Hiking here is a true escape into the wild.

Route Overview

The approaches to these peaks are long and demanding, often requiring multi-day expeditions with wild camping. The main routes begin from Poolewe, via the Kernsary track, or Dundonnell. Both involve traversing rough moorland and steep, pathless slopes. From Poolewe, the round trip to Beinn a’ Chaisgein Mòr alone is approximately 58km with 2628m of ascent, taking over 20 hours including walk-ins and outs. The route from Dundonnell is slightly shorter but equally strenuous.

While Beinn a' Chaisgein Mòr's summit features rolling terrain, Beinn an Eoin offers a more dramatic coastal setting near Flowerdale Forest. These peaks demand careful planning and preparation, but their remoteness and isolation make them an unforgettable experience in the Great Wilderness. For those who prefer more structured challenges, exploring our Corbetts guide may provide inspiration.

The Walk

Stage One: The Approach

From Poolewe, park near NG863795 and follow the well-defined Kernsary track through Larachantivore. The path here is broad and reliable, but as you venture deeper into the Fisherfield wilderness, the terrain becomes boggier and less distinct. River crossings and rough moorland will test your stamina. If using a bike, this section offers some relief, allowing quicker access to Carnmore Bothy, which serves as an ideal base for tackling Beinn a’ Chaisgein Mòr.

Alternatively, the Dundonnell route begins at Corrie Hallie (NH128958). After crossing rivers and boggy stretches, hikers can set up camp near Lochan Feith Mhic’illean. This approach requires navigating steep slopes and pathless terrain, so good map-reading skills are essential.

Stage Two: Beinn a’ Chaisgein Mòr

From Carnmore Bothy, the ascent to Beinn a' Chaisgein Mòr begins with a northeast ridge climb, navigating crags and boulder-strewn sections. The summit plateau, at 856 metres, is marked by a cairn and offers sweeping views across Fisherfield: Ruadh Stac Mòr, A’ Mhaighdean, and Beinn Dearg Mòr are visible on clear days. This is true wilderness walking: no upper paths, no cairns, and often cloud-covered summits.

Stage Three: Beinn an Eoin

While Beinn a’ Chaisgein Mòr is often tackled alone due to the sheer distance involved, Beinn an Eoin makes for an excellent circular walk from Flowerdale Forest near Torridon. The ascent here is steep but rewarding, with stunning coastal views towards Baosbheinn and beyond. Its summit, at 855 metres, is slightly lower but equally dramatic. Combining both peaks requires meticulous planning and multiple days, with wild camping mandatory.

Getting There and Parking

The primary starting point for accessing Beinn a’ Chaisgein Mòr is Poolewe (NG863795), a small village with limited parking spaces. This route is more commonly used due to the well-established Kernsary track and the option of cycling part of the way. Alternatively, walkers can begin from Dundonnell’s Corrie Hallie car park (NH128958), although this parking area can be crowded during peak season.

Public transport options are limited in these remote areas, making access reliant on private vehicles. Ensure you arrive early to secure a parking spot and leave room for other visitors. For multi-day expeditions, notify someone of your planned route and expected return time, especially given the area’s isolation.

Key Takeaways

• Both peaks are extremely remote, requiring long approaches and wild camping.
• Beinn a’ Chaisgein Mòr offers rolling summit plateaus and expansive wilderness views.
• Beinn an Eoin provides coastal panoramas and dramatic ascents.
• Essential equipment includes OS maps, GPS, and waterproof gear.
• These routes are suited only for experienced walkers seeking solitude.
• Wild camping near Carnmore Bothy or Lochan Feith Mhic’illean is necessary for most routes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How remote are these peaks?
Beinn an Eoin and Beinn a’ Chaisgein Mòr are among Scotland’s most remote Corbetts. Located deep in the Fisherfield and Letterewe wilderness, they require long walk-ins over boggy terrain and have no maintained paths on their upper slopes. Their isolation makes them a serious challenge for all but experienced walkers.

Do you need to camp?
Yes, wild camping is essential for most walkers due to the long distances involved. Recommended sites include areas near Carnmore Bothy or Lochan Feith Mhic’illean. Follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code to ensure your camping leaves no trace.

How long does the walk take?
The full round trip from Poolewe to Beinn a’ Chaisgein Mòr is approximately 58km and takes over 20 hours, including walk-in and out. From Dundonnell, a core day can take 11-20 hours depending on fitness and conditions. Multi-day expeditions are strongly recommended.

Are they worth the effort?
Absolutely. The solitude, rugged terrain, and panoramic views make these peaks a unique challenge. While the effort is considerable, the rewards are extraordinary for those seeking a true wilderness experience.

If you’re inspired by remote hiking, you may also enjoy exploring Suilven or tackling iconic routes like An Teallach. For those drawn to Scotland’s diverse peaks, browse our Corbetts guide for more adventures.