Ben More, A' Chioch & Beinn Fhada loop from the B8035

While the komoot tour data suggests a duration of around 2.5 hours for jogging, this challenging mountain loop is generally not recommended for jogging due to its difficult terrain. For hiking, expect a full mountain day, typically taking 6-8 hours, depending on your pace, experience with scrambling, and weather conditions.

The loop starts from the B8035 on the Isle of Mull. Parking is usually available in designated lay-bys or small car parks along the B8035 near the trailhead. Always ensure you park responsibly and do not obstruct access.

No, this trail is not recommended for jogging due to its difficult terrain, which includes significant scrambling and loose rock. It is also not suitable for beginners. This is a challenging mountain hike requiring good fitness, experience with mountain environments, and comfort with exposed scrambling.

The terrain is varied and demanding. You'll encounter boggy sections initially, transitioning to rocky mountain ridges with exposed, easy scrambling. The ascent of Ben More features a steep final slope with loose, broken rocks and can involve tricky route finding. The A' Chioch ridge offers straightforward scrambling, with some Grade 1, borderline Grade 2 sections, and bypass paths for more exposed areas. Beinn Fhada's ridge is rocky and undulating.

The trail offers spectacular and stunning views throughout. You can expect to see across Loch na Keal, with the islands of Ulva and Eorsa. From the Ben More Summit, you'll get 360-degree panoramic views. Waterfalls and dramatic cloudscapes also add to the visual appeal. Don't miss the vistas from Beinn Fhada and A' Chioch Summit.

The best time to hike this trail is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to September) when weather conditions are generally more stable and daylight hours are longer. However, mountain weather can change rapidly at any time of year, so always be prepared for all conditions.

Attempting this route in winter conditions (roughly November to April) significantly increases the difficulty and requires specialized equipment and experience. You would need an ice-axe, crampons, and the necessary skills to use them safely, along with advanced navigation abilities.

While dogs are generally allowed on Scottish hills, this particular route involves significant scrambling, exposed sections, and potentially loose rock, which can be challenging and dangerous for dogs, especially on the A' Chioch ridge and Ben More's final ascent. Consider if your dog is capable and comfortable with such terrain, and always keep them under close control, preferably on a leash, due to livestock and ground-nesting birds.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to hike the Ben More, A' Chioch & Beinn Fhada loop. Access to Scottish mountains is generally open under the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.

Yes, there are notable scrambling sections, particularly on the A' Chioch ridge and parts of Ben More's northeast ridge. The A' Chioch ridge features straightforward scrambling, with some sections requiring hands-on climbing. For more exposed areas on A' Chioch, there are often bypass paths available, allowing you to avoid the most challenging scrambling if preferred.

Yes, approximately 54% of this route follows sections of the Ben Moore Trail.