Stob Ban and Mullach nan Coirean: the Quiet Mamores

When it comes to hillwalking in the Mamores range, many hikers flock eastwards to popular summits like Sgùrr a’ Mhaim or Am Bodach. However, the westernmost Munros, Stob Ban and Mullach nan Coirean, offer a quieter, equally rewarding experience. This circular ridge walk through the “Quiet Mamores” delivers stunning views, varied terrain, and a sense of tranquillity, perfect for those seeking to escape the busier trails.

Starting from Glen Nevis near Fort William, this moderate hike combines steep ascents, rocky ridges, and descents through forestry, making it a fantastic choice for fit walkers. Read on to discover everything you need to know about this hidden gem in the Mamores range.

Route Overview

Stob Ban and Mullach nan Coirean are typically climbed as part of a 13-14km circular ridge walk, beginning and ending at the Achriabhach car park in Glen Nevis. This route involves an ascent of approximately 1160-1200m and takes between 5 and 8 hours, depending on fitness and conditions. While much of the path is well-defined, there are steep rocky sections, loose scree, and occasional boggy areas, making it a tough yet achievable day out for experienced hillwalkers.

Stob Ban, with its striking white quartzite summit, is the highlight of the route, offering superb panoramic views of Ben Nevis, the Mamores, and beyond. The ridge connecting Stob Ban to Mullach nan Coirean provides a classic Scottish hillwalking experience, with a mix of undulating crests and rugged terrain. Mullach nan Coirean, though less dramatic in appearance, offers a bouldery summit and heather-clad slopes, completing a satisfying circuit.

The Walk

Stage 1: The Ascent to Stob Ban

The walk begins at the Achriabhach car park (grid reference NN143683), where a clear path leads into the Coire a’ Mhusgain valley. Initially, the trail is straightforward, following a well-trodden track through picturesque Glen Nevis. As the path begins to climb, it becomes steeper, zigzagging up the hillside and crossing a stream. This ascent, while challenging, rewards hikers with increasingly expansive views of Glen Nevis and the surrounding peaks.

Reaching the ridge, turn right to head towards Stob Ban. The terrain becomes rockier here, with some loose scree to navigate. The final push to the summit is steep but manageable, revealing the distinctive quartzite cap that makes Stob Ban so iconic. Pause here to take in the breathtaking views, which include the Grey Corries, Ben Nevis, and the Mamores range stretching eastward.

Stage 2: Along the Ridge to Mullach nan Coirean

From Stob Ban, the ridge undulates as it carries you westward towards Mullach nan Coirean. The path offers plenty of variety, with sections of narrow crests, rocky outcrops, and grassy patches. This part of the walk is particularly enjoyable on clear days, as the views are uninterrupted in all directions. Coire Dearg lies to your right, its steep slopes adding a dramatic edge to the journey.

Reaching Mullach nan Coirean involves a climb over rough, bouldery terrain. The summit itself is a more subdued affair compared to Stob Ban, but it offers a quiet place to rest and enjoy the surrounding scenery. To the west, the landscape opens out towards Loch Linnhe, while to the east, the Mamores continue their rugged march.

Stage 3: The Descent

The descent begins by following a grassy ridge southeast from Mullach nan Coirean. This section is less defined than the earlier paths, so care is needed to stay on track, especially in poor visibility. The ridge leads to Sròn Riabhach, where you’ll encounter a stile marking the entrance to forestry land.

Once in the trees, the route joins a series of forestry tracks. These can be boggy in places, so sturdy footwear is essential. Follow the main track downhill, taking a right turn at a larger junction, and eventually descending onto the minor road that leads back to the Achriabhach car park.

Getting There and Parking

The walk starts and finishes at the Achriabhach car park, located 6km southeast of Fort William along the minor road in Glen Nevis (grid reference NN143683). Parking here is free, though spaces are limited. As an alternative, the Glen Nevis Lower Falls car park (NN146683) offers paid parking and is serviced by seasonal buses from Fort William (May to September).

Fort William serves as an excellent base for exploring the area, with accommodation, shops, and transport links. The town is accessible by train, bus, or car, making it a convenient gateway to the western Mamores and other nearby highlights like the Devils Ridge on Sgurr a Mhaim.

Key Takeaways

• Distance: 13-14km circular route, starting at Achriabhach car park.
• Ascent: Approximately 1160-1200m, with steep and rocky sections.
• Time: 5-8 hours, depending on fitness and conditions.
• Difficulty: Moderate to tough. Good navigation and hillwalking experience required.
• Highlights: Stob Ban’s quartzite summit, panoramic views, quiet ridges.
• Best for: Walkers seeking a less-travelled route with varied terrain.

For more on this area, see our guide to the full Mamores ridge.

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard are Stob Ban and Mullach nan Coirean?
While not as technically demanding as some Munros, the walk features steep ascents, rocky sections, and occasional boggy ground. It requires fitness, good navigation skills, and appropriate equipment, particularly in winter or poor weather.

Where do you start?
The walk begins at the Achriabhach car park in Glen Nevis (NN143683). Alternative parking is available at the Glen Nevis Lower Falls car park, which is slightly further away but offers additional facilities.

Can you combine them with other Mamores?
Yes, fit and experienced walkers can extend the route to include neighbouring peaks like Sgùrr a’ Mhaim. However, this significantly increases the difficulty and demands excellent navigation skills.

How long does the walk take?
Most walkers complete the circuit in 6 to 7.5 hours. Very fit hikers may manage it in 5 hours, while those taking a more leisurely pace or encountering poor conditions may take up to 8 hours.

For those seeking a quieter adventure in the Mamores, Stob Ban and Mullach nan Coirean deliver an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re drawn by the quartzite summit of Stob Ban, the expansive views, or the peaceful ridge, this route showcases some of Scotland’s best hillwalking away from the crowds.