Big Summits, Less Time on the Trail
Let’s face it — not every Munro mission has to involve a 4am start and a soggy tent. Whether you’re on a time crunch or just easing into the world of Munro-bagging, there are plenty of mountains that offer epic views and summit satisfaction without chewing up your whole day.
This list is for anyone who wants that peak-bagging buzz in under six hours, from beginner-friendly hills to slightly more rugged ridges — all achievable in a solid morning or afternoon.
Time estimates are based on average pace in decent weather — adjust for your own ability, and always check the mountain forecast before heading out.
1. Ben Lomond – Southern Highlands
- Height: 974m
- Route Length: ~12km
- Time: 4.5–5.5 hours
- Start Point: Rowardennan
- Why it’s doable: Clear path the whole way, one of the most accessible Munros
- Highlight: Sweeping views over Loch Lomond — a true “starter Munro”
- Bonus Tip: Very popular — hit it early or midweek to avoid crowds
2. Mount Keen – Glen Esk
- Height: 939m
- Route Length: ~17km
- Time: 4.5–6 hours
- Start Point: Invermark car park
- Why it’s doable: Smooth track most of the way, long but steady
- Highlight: Scotland’s most easterly Munro, peaceful and scenic
- Bonus Tip: Add the Queen’s Well for a bit of royal history
3. Meall nan Tarmachan – Killin
- Height: 1,043m
- Route Length: ~8km
- Time: 3.5–5 hours
- Start Point: Ben Lawers car park
- Why it’s doable: Quick ascent and a cracking ridge without major exposure
- Highlight: Excellent intro to ridge walking
- Bonus Tip: Watch for mountain hares near the summit
4. Ben Chonzie – Glen Lednock
- Height: 931m
- Route Length: ~12km
- Time: 4–5 hours
- Start Point: Coishavachan
- Why it’s doable: One of the easiest Munros — clear paths and gentle gradients
- Highlight: Quiet moorland with panoramic view
- Bonus Tip: Gaiters recommended — bog central after rain
5. Carn Aosda – Glenshee
- Height: 917m
- Route Length: ~6km
- Time: 2.5–3.5 hours
- Start Point: Glenshee Ski Centre
- Why it’s doable: Possibly the easiest Munro — short and direct
- Highlight: Great for snowy conditions or first winter walk
- Bonus Tip: Pair with The Cairnwell for a quick double Munro
6. Beinn Ghlas – Ben Lawers Range
- Height: 1,103m
- Route Length: ~7km
- Time: 3.5–5 hours
- Start Point: Ben Lawers car park
- Why it’s doable: Often tackled en route to Ben Lawers — but worthy on its own
- Highlight: Classic views and a solid path
- Bonus Tip: Great confidence booster before tackling the full Lawers ridge
7. Ben Vorlich (Loch Earn) – Southern Highlands
- Height: 985m
- Route Length: ~10km
- Time: 4–5.5 hours
- Start Point: Ardvorlich House
- Why it’s doable: Steady trail and direct route
- Highlight: Sweeping views over Loch Earn and the Central Highlands
- Bonus Tip: Leave early to beat the weekend rush — it’s a busy one
8. Cairnwell & Carn a’ Gheoidh – Glenshee
- Height: 933m & 975m
- Route Length: ~10km
- Time: 4.5–5.5 hours
- Start Point: Glenshee Ski Centre
- Why it’s doable: Lift-accessed start makes for a high-level loop
- Highlight: Double Munro with minimal effort
- Bonus Tip: Ideal for low-cloud days — terrain is fairly straightforward
9. Ben Wyvis – Ross-shire
- Height: 1,046m
- Route Length: ~14km
- Time: 4.5–6 hours
- Start Point: Garbat forest car park
- Why it’s doable: Long but steady trail with a solid ridge
- Highlight: Vast summit plateau with incredible northern views
- Bonus Tip: Keep an eye out for ptarmigan and golden eagles
10. Stob Coire Raineach – Glencoe
- Height: 925m
- Route Length: ~8km
- Time: 3.5–4.5 hours
- Start Point: Lairig Eilde car park
- Why it’s doable: Shorter of the Buachaille Etive Beag pair
- Highlight: One of Glencoe’s best value-for-effort summits
- Bonus Tip: Great intro to Munros in more dramatic terrain
Final Thoughts
Not every Munro needs to be a monster. These 10 routes prove you can have an epic Highland day out without committing to 10+ hours in the hills. Whether you’re new to Munro-bagging or just after a quick win, these mountains deliver the goods without stealing your weekend.
Photo by Jonas on Unsplash
