Fisherfield Six: Scotland's Remotest Munros

The Fisherfield Six, nestled in the rugged expanse of the Fisherfield Forest and Letterewe wilderness, are widely regarded as Scotland’s remotest Munros. This iconic group includes five Munros and one Corbett, offering hillwalkers an unparalleled wilderness experience through challenging terrain, breathtaking views and true solitude. With their remoteness, dramatic landscapes and demanding routes, they are a pinnacle achievement for experienced hikers seeking to test their endurance and navigation skills.

These peaks include A' Mhaighdean (963m), often hailed as the remotest Munro from any public road, Mullach Coire Mhic Fhearchair (1018m, the highest in the range), Sgùrr Bàn (1020m), Ruadh Stac Mòr (919m), Beinn Tarsuinn (934m) and Beinn a' Chlaidheimh (914m, now a Corbett). The Fisherfield Six can be tackled as a two- or three-day backpacking adventure, typically starting from Dundonnell and incorporating wild camping or the Shenavall Bothy as a base of operations. The expedition covers approximately 40km with 2,700-3,000m of ascent across remote, rugged terrain.

Route Overview

The Fisherfield Six circuit is a demanding route suited to those with advanced navigation skills, high fitness levels and a readiness for unpredictable conditions. The most common starting point is Dundonnell, following a route to Shenavall Bothy, a Mountain Bothies Association site situated in the heart of this vast wilderness. From here, the walk takes you on a roughly 29km loop through pathless glens, scree-covered slopes and rocky cols, summiting each peak in turn.

The six summits are typically tackled in an anti-clockwise direction starting with Beinn a' Chlaidheimh. This is followed by Sgùrr Bàn and Mullach Coire Mhic Fhearchair, before heading to Beinn Tarsuinn. The last two summits, Ruadh Stac Mòr and A' Mhaighdean, crown the circuit, with their remote positions and extraordinary views of the Great Wilderness making them highlights of the walk.

Expect steep ascents, river crossings and long stretches of pathless terrain. The route is highly weather-dependent, and river crossings such as those at Abhainn Srath na Sealga and Abhainn Gleann na Muice can be impassable after heavy rainfall. Wild camping is permitted under the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, and summit bivouacs on A' Mhaighdean are particularly popular for the adventurous.

The Walk

Stage One: Corrie Hallie to Shenavall Bothy

Start your adventure at Corrie Hallie car park, located off the A832 near Dundonnell. From here, a well-defined Land Rover track leads westward along the Allt na Beinne Mòire. The path winds through rugged moorland with occasional glimpses of the surrounding mountains, gradually descending towards the Shenavall Bothy. This initial stretch, covering approximately 7km, takes around 3-4 hours and includes a couple of straightforward river crossings before reaching the bothy.

Shenavall Bothy is a popular resting place for Fisherfield Munros walkers, offering basic shelter and a communal space. However, due to its popularity, wild camping nearby may provide more solitude.

Stage Two: The Circuit of the Fisherfield Six

From Shenavall, the circuit begins by crossing the valley floor, tackling the first summit, Beinn a' Chlaidheimh (914m). Though now classified as a Corbett, its position in the group makes it a logical starting point for the circuit. The ascent is steep and pathless, with scree and grassy slopes requiring careful footing.

Next comes Sgùrr Bàn (1020m), which is reached by following a high ridge. This Munro is characterised by its steep scree-covered slopes and offers panoramic views over the wilderness. Mullach Coire Mhic Fhearchair (1018m) is the third peak, easily accessed from the col below Sgùrr Bàn. As the highest peak in the Fisherfield Six, it rewards climbers with commanding views across the surrounding mountains.

Beinn Tarsuinn (934m) is the fourth summit, featuring distinctive rocky terrain formed from Torridonian and Lewissian gneiss. Its lumpy top provides a challenging but rewarding ascent. From here, the route heads towards Ruadh Stac Mòr (919m), which involves navigating boulder-strewn ridges and rocky passes. Finally, A' Mhaighdean (963m) completes the circuit, offering unparalleled views over Lochan Fada and the Great Wilderness.

Return via the col below A' Mhaighdean, navigating lumpy ground and potentially cloud-prone terrain, before retracing your steps to Shenavall Bothy and back to Corrie Hallie.

Getting There and Parking

The most convenient access point for the Fisherfield Six is Corrie Hallie car park, located on the A832 near Dundonnell. The car park is free, but spaces can fill up quickly during peak season. From here, a 7km Land Rover track leads to Shenavall Bothy, taking around three to four hours on foot.

Alternatively, the western approach via Incheril provides a longer but equally scenic route to Loch Gleann na Muice. This option is ideal for those looking to extend their adventure over multiple days.

Key Takeaways

• The Fisherfield Six comprises five Munros and one Corbett, offering Scotland’s most remote hillwalking experience.
• The circuit is a 29-42km route with 2,700-3,000m of ascent, typically completed over 2-3 days.
• Shenavall Bothy is a convenient base, though wild camping along the route offers greater solitude.
• River crossings can become hazardous after heavy rainfall, so always check forecasts and conditions beforehand.
• Advanced navigation skills, high fitness levels and proper preparation are essential for tackling this route.
• Summer offers the best conditions, though midges can be problematic during warmer months.

For more on this area, see our guide to Beinn Eighe to the south.

Frequently Asked Questions

How remote are the Fisherfield Six? The Fisherfield Six are considered Scotland’s most remote Munros, with A' Mhaighdean often regarded as the remotest Munro from any public road. The route takes you deep into the Great Wilderness, far from civilisation and mobile phone signals.

How long does it take? The circuit typically takes two to three days, depending on fitness levels and weather conditions. Experienced and fit hillwalkers may complete it in a single day, though this requires a very early start and considerable stamina.

Can you stay at Shenavall Bothy? Yes, Shenavall Bothy is managed by the Mountain Bothies Association and is open to walkers. It provides basic shelter but can become crowded during peak times, so wild camping nearby may be preferable for solitude.

What are the main dangers? The main dangers include river crossings, which can become impassable in spate conditions, and pathless terrain requiring advanced navigation skills. Weather in the Great Wilderness can change rapidly, and the remoteness of the area means help is far away in case of emergencies.

For adventurous walkers seeking an unforgettable challenge, the Fisherfield Six offers a unique opportunity to experience the wild beauty of Scotland. Whether you’re tackling the route as a backpacking expedition or as part of two-day mountain routes, this remote circuit promises solitude, spectacular scenery and a true sense of achievement.