Cruachan

Hill, Mountain in Stirlingshire

Scotland

Cruachan

Glen Arklet - The reservoir (Loch Arklet) dam Looking southward. — Glen Arklet - The reservoir (Loch Arklet) dam Credit: Peter Wood

Cruachan is a prominent hill located in Stirlingshire, Scotland. It is situated near the village of Dalmally and stands at an impressive height of 1,126 meters (3,694 feet). This makes it one of the highest peaks in the region, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

The name Cruachan is derived from the Gaelic word "cruach," meaning a stack or heap, which is fitting considering its rugged and rocky appearance. It is part of the Cruachan Ridge, a series of peaks that stretch across Stirlingshire and Argyll.

Cruachan is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts, who are drawn to its challenging yet rewarding ascent. The hill is known for its steep slopes and rugged terrain, making it a suitable challenge for experienced climbers. However, there are also less strenuous routes available for those seeking a more leisurely hike.

The hill is rich in wildlife and offers a diverse range of flora and fauna. Hikers may encounter various species of birds, such as golden eagles and ptarmigans, as well as deer and other mammals. The area is also known for its picturesque lochs and sparkling streams, adding to the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Cruachan is steeped in history and folklore, with many tales and legends associated with its name. It is believed to have been a site of ancient rituals and gatherings, adding an air of mystery and intrigue to the hill.

Overall, Cruachan is a captivating and challenging destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering stunning views, diverse wildlife, and a touch of Scottish history and folklore.

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Cruachan Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 56.233007/-4.6614269 or Grid Reference NN3507. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Glen Arklet - The reservoir (Loch Arklet) dam

Looking southward.

Peter Wood

Glen Arklet - Minor road descending towards Inversnaid and Loch Lomond

Looking south-westward.

Peter Wood

Glen Arklet - Minor road climbing away from Inversnaid and Loch Lomond

Looking north-eastward.

Peter Wood

Loch Lomond

Looking southward from Inversnaid Harbour.

Peter Wood

Minor road climbing out of Inversnaid

Looking north-eastward. At this point the West Highland Way has been re-routed along the road and the orange barrier ahead is an access point to re-join the main route.

Peter Wood

Ordnance Survey Flush Bracket 11785

This bracket can be found at the roadside entrance to Loch Arklet dam wall. The recorded details give a height of 147.275 metres above sea level. For more detail see : Link

Peter Wood

Ordnance Survey Cut Mark with Rivet

This mark and rived can be found on top of the parapet of the road bridge spanning Snaid Burn at Inversnaid. The recorded details give a height of 115.889 metres above seal level. For more detail see : Link

Peter Wood

Memorial to Loch Lomond fatality

Mid morning on Sunday 23 November 1975, a party of walkers got into trouble whilst trying to wade through an in-spate Cailness Burn. This burn is approximately 2 km south of Inversnaid on the West Highland Way long distance walk. At that time there was no foot-bridge across the burn; the previous one had been washed away in July of that year. Three of the walkers were swept out into Loch Lomond and their leader, 6ft 5in Bill Lobban, waded in to the water to try and rescue them. All this was witnessed by 68 year old John Groome from nearby Caillnes Cottage. John launched his motorised ten foot open dinghy and managed to rescue three of those in trouble, but there was no sign of Bill Lobban, his body was never recovered. The full story is available as part of John Groome’s Diaries. These are available via the Friends of Loch Lomond’s website. Link

Pete Marrison