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Ben More
means the big hill and it certainly dominates this corner of Scotland,
lying with its equally large partner Stob Binnein just east of Crianlarich.
To do both hills inevitably means some compromise, between distance traversed
and convenience. This route attempts to come up with the best option,
requiring only one car, taking in both summits and presenting the most
interesting ascent routes. The downside is a few kilometres of track bashing
at the end of the day.
Start from
the car park at the end of the public road west from Balquhidder, 700m
east of Inverlochlarig. Take the steep grassy slopes directly to Stob
Invercarnaig, the south spur of Stob Binnein. The ridge now continues
north to Stob Coire an Lochain (1068m) along a delightful grassy ridge
with fine views of the Crianlarich hills to the west.
Drop down
slightly then climb up the steepening ridge to gain the summit of Stob
Binnein. There are crags on the west flank which can provide some shelter
from a cold east wind if necessary. From the summit, descend the rock-strewn
slope to the Bealach-eadar-dha-Beinn, 862m (the bealach between two hills,
logically enough!)
Looking up
towards the final climb, you may be excused for feeling lethargic but
it is not as long, or as steep, as it appears - believe me! A good, steady
climb up this, north at first, then north-east, then north again before
hitting the summit of Ben More perched on a crag on the edge of all things.
Once you reach here, you will be happy that you did not slog up the unrelenting
slope from the north of the mountain. Views to the north include the Ben
Lui group, while to the west are the Crianlarich Munros.
Retrace your
route back to the bealach, then turn SW to head for the watershed between
Benmore and Inverlochlarig glens. Continue south down Inverlochlarig Glen
and pick up first a path, then a track leading down the glen to Inverlochlarig
and the road back to the car park.
Note:
These hills are fairly high, with exposed upper slopes. Bear this in mind
when planning a winter ascent. A pleasant shorter day may be grabbed if
the weather is threatening by turning east from the first top, Stob Coire
an Lochain to climb Meall na Dige (966m) and taking its south ridge to
return to the road.
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