Munro Profile 138: Stob Ban (Mamores)

Region: Loch Linnhe to Loch Tay
Height: 999m (3,278 ft)

Stob Bàn, “white peak,” is a striking quartzite summit in the Mamores, known for its pale scree and elegant ridges. Its name is visually apt, reflecting the gleaming prominence that defines its character. Though often paired with Mullach nan Coirean for a two-Munro day, Stob Bàn holds its own as a luminous ascent, airy, sculptural, and rhythmically poised above Glen Nevis. For campervan travellers, access is direct via the Lower Falls car park, with scenic walk-ins and nearby amenities in Fort William.

Trailhead and Parking

  • Primary Access Point: Lower Falls Car Park (Glen Nevis)
  • Location: End of Glen Nevis road, west of Fort William
  • Grid Reference: NN145684 (trailhead)
  • Summit Grid Reference: NN148653
  • Capacity: Moderate; suitable for daytime campervan access
  • Facilities: Toilets, picnic area, information boards
  • Charges: A Small fee may apply during peak season
  • Overnight: Not permitted

Alternative Options

  • Fort William: Campsite with full facilities, 15-minute drive
  • Wild Parking: Possible in designated laybys along Glen Nevis (check signage and seasonal restrictions)
  • Achintee: Informal parking and access to Ben Nevis paths

Route Overview

  • Standard Ascent: Direct path via Coire Mhusgain
  • Distance: ~10 km round trip
  • Elevation Gain: ~850 metres
  • Terrain: Steep grassy slopes, quartzite scree, narrow ridges
  • Time Estimate: 4 to 6 hours

Extensions:

  • Often paired with Mullach nan Coirean for a two-Munro circuit
  • Ridge traverse offers airy pacing and sculptural flow

Navigation Notes

  • Summit is exposed and pale; visibility can be deceptive
  • A map and compass are essential; a GPS is helpful for ridge transitions
  • Ridge is elegant but narrow in places; care needed in poor conditions
  • Weather can shift quickly; ceremonial pacing and full kit advised

Campervan Suitability

  • Day Parking: Lower Falls car park allows daytime campervan access
  • Overnight Options:
    • Fort William Campsite: Toilets, showers, electric hook-ups
    • Wild parking may be possible in designated laybys
  • Overflow: Fort William offers additional staging and amenities

Fuel and Supplies

  • Fort William: Fuel station, supermarket, cafés
  • Nearest Large Supermarket: Fort William town centre
  • Outdoor Gear: Available in Fort William and Glencoe
  • Water Refill: Recommended before entering the Glen Nevis corridor

Legacy Log

  • Name Origin: “Stob Bàn” translates to “white peak”
  • Summit Features: Cairn with views across Glen Nevis, the Mamores, and Ben Nevis
  • Known For: Quartzite summit, elegant ridges, and visual prominence
  • Popular With: Ridge walkers, legacy stewards, and those seeking a luminous ascent

Closing Notes

This is Munro Profile 138 in your campervan-access series. If you’ve climbed Stob Bàn, linked it with Mullach nan Coirean, or found a reliable overnight spot nearby, feel free to share your comments. Your insights help shape the archive and support 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:

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