Cruach Tairbeirt to Arrochar

About trip

A short but challenging straight up and down of the hill immediately behind Arrochar rail station. The route starts climbing almost from the start, and there are very few level bits on either the ascent or descent. The path is mostly well formed, although Forestry Commission work can create issues with tree felling. Once clear of the tree-line (about half way up) the path continues through ferns towards higher ground. At this point care has to be taken as there are many potholes and hidden water pools hidden in the foliage that can catch the unwary. Using a stick, both for these and just because of the gradient, is recommended. Once the trig point is reached at 415m the views on a clear day are incredible. Loch Lomond both to the South and North, Loch Long and Arrochar to the West and straight ahead the hydro dam holding back Loch Sloy at the head of Glen Loin. As well as the various nearby mountains such as Ben Lomond and Ben Vorlich and the start of the Trossachs. Route descends by same path as the ascent and continues on into Arrochar.