Region: Northwest Highlands – North of Loch Mullardoch
Height: 1,053m (3,455 ft)
Sgùrr a’Chaorachain, “peak of the little corrie,” rises in remote prominence above the northern shore of Loch Mullardoch, forming part of the wild and sculptural arc of Munros that includes An Riabhachan, Sgùrr na Lapaich, and Carn nan Gobhar. Though not visually dominant, its summit offers mythic solitude and panoramic views across the folds of Glen Strathfarrar, Glen Cannich, and the distant ridges of Affric. The terrain is steep and pathless in places, demanding ceremonial pacing and confident navigation. For campervan travellers, access begins at Mullardoch Dam, with informal staging near the loch’s eastern edge.
Trailhead and Parking
Primary Access Point: Mullardoch Dam (end of Glen Cannich road)
Location: West of Cannich village
Grid Reference: NH194315 (trailhead)
Summit Grid Reference: NH146347
Capacity: Limited roadside parking; suitable for short campervans during the day
Facilities: None at the trailhead
Charges: Free
Overnight: Not permitted at the trailhead; tolerated with discretion in designated laybys
Nearby Options
- Cannich: Campsite with full facilities
- Wild parking: Possible in designated laybys along Glen Cannich (check signage)
- Drumnadrochit and Glen Affric: Additional amenities and staging options
Route Overview
Standard Ascent: Multi-Munro circuit via An Riabhachan, Carn nan Gobhar, and Sgùrr na Lapaich
Distance: Approximately 22–25 km round trip
Elevation Gain: Around 1,700 metres
Terrain: Estate tracks, steep ridges, rocky summits
Time Estimate: 7 to 9 hours
Extensions:
- Circuit can be reversed or adapted depending on conditions
- Boat access across Loch Mullardoch may shorten the approach (by arrangement)
Navigation Notes
- Route begins on a well-defined estate track
- Transitions into open hillside with faint paths and complex ridges
- Summit is cairned and quiet; views stretch deep into the Highlands
- A map and compass are essential; GPS is helpful for summit identification and descent planning
- Weather can shift quickly; mist and wind demand caution
Campervan Suitability
Day Parking
- Mullardoch Dam allows discreet daytime campervan access
- Space is limited; arrive early and pack with foresight
Overnight Options
- Cannich Campsite: Toilets, showers, electric hook-ups
- Wild parking may be possible in designated laybys
- Community-supported staging near Glen Affric
Fuel and Supplies
- Cannich: Shop, café, basic services
- Drumnadrochit and Beauly: Fuel and additional supplies
- Full resupply: Inverness (supermarkets, outdoor gear)
- Water refill: Recommended before entering Glen Cannich
Legacy Log
- Name origin: “Sgùrr a’Chaorachain” translates to “peak of the little corrie”
- Summit features: Cairn with views across Glen Strathfarrar, Glen Cannich, and Loch Mullardoch
- Known for: Remote access, ridge linkage, and sacred pacing
- Popular with: Wilderness pilgrims, legacy stewards, and those seeking sculptural solitude
Closing Notes
This is Munro Profile 78 in your campervan-access series. If you have traced the loch’s hush, paused at the cairned crest, or found a rhythm in Cannich’s sculptural folds, your reflections are welcome. Each insight helps shape the archive and supports fellow travellers.
Sources Used
These sites provide far more detailed and comprehensive overviews of the walks and Munros than I could hope to cover here: