A Double Munro Day in the Crianlarich Hills
If you’re ready to tackle a satisfying ridge walk in the southern Highlands, Beinn a’ Chròin and An Caisteal offer a superb double Munro day. With sweeping views, ridge drama, and just enough technical terrain to keep things interesting, this walk is a solid step up from beginner-level routes — and a lesser-known gem just outside Crianlarich.
This circular hike takes in two Munros via grassy slopes, rocky ridges and high mountain bealachs, with a sense of wild remoteness despite its easy access from the A82. Here’s how to make the most of this rewarding day in the hills.
Quick Stats
- Location: Glen Falloch, near Crianlarich
- Height: An Caisteal (995m), Beinn a’ Chròin (941m)
- Distance: Approx. 13km (circular route)
- Time: 5–7 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Start Point: Layby on A82, near the Glen Falloch bridge
- Parking: Free, limited roadside spots
- OS Map: Explorer 364
- Facilities: None on site – nearest village: Crianlarich (5 min drive)
Route Overview
The walk begins from a layby just north of Crianlarich, following a track into Glen Falloch before heading up onto the open hillside.
The first Munro of the day is An Caisteal, reached via a steep grassy ascent followed by a bit of ridge walking and minor scrambling. From there, you descend to the bealach (a mountain pass) and begin the climb to Beinn a’ Chròin, a broader and slightly more subdued summit with excellent views over Glen Lochy and beyond.
Return can be made by dropping south into Coire Earb and picking up the track back to the A82, forming a satisfying circular route.
Terrain Breakdown
- Lower slopes: Grassy, can be boggy after rain
- An Caisteal ridge: Narrow in parts, rocky underfoot with hands-on sections
- Bealach to Beinn a’ Chròin: Often wet, requires confident footing
- Beinn a’ Chròin summit: Broad, rounded plateau – keep your bearings in poor visibility
- Descent: Steep and pathless at times, care needed on rough ground
Key Highlights
- The ridge section between the two Munros offers striking views and enjoyable walking
- An Caisteal has one of the most photogenic summits in the southern Highlands, with views over Ben More, Stob Binnein and Loch Lomond
- The route is quieter than neighbouring peaks and gives a real sense of remote Highland walking without major distance
- Great opportunity to practice navigation and ridge skills
What to Watch Out For
- The bealach can be boggy, especially after heavy rain
- Navigation is crucial on both summits in cloud — the paths fade at points
- The scrambly section near An Caisteal’s summit is mild but exposed — watch your footing, especially in wet or icy conditions
- The descent path isn’t always clear — check your map and bearings
What to Bring
- Waterproof hiking boots (gaiters helpful for the boggy sections)
- Map and compass (Explorer 364), GPS or Peaky Baggers app
- Waterproofs and extra warm layers — the summits are exposed
- Food and 2L+ water — no refill points en route
- Headtorch and power bank if walking in spring/autumn
- First aid kit and emergency bivvy recommended
Optional Add-Ons
- Add Beinn Tulaichean or Cruach Ardrain for a longer day (experienced navigators only)
- Camp in Glen Falloch or use Crianlarich as a base for other nearby Munros
- Pair this route with Ben More & Stob Binnein on a weekend trip
Final Thoughts
Beinn a’ Chròin and An Caisteal offer a top-tier Highland ridge walk without the crowds or extreme remoteness. They’re ideal for hikers looking to move beyond beginner routes and experience a classic Munro day out.
Expect ridge drama, boggy bealachs, and a real sense of Highland scale — just remember to respect the terrain, check your map often, and give yourself time to soak up the views.
Photo by martin bennie on Unsplash
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