Region: Glen Strathfarrar – Monar Forest
Height: 992m (3,255 ft)
Càrn nan Gobhar, “cairn of the goats,” is the most easterly Munro on the Glen Strathfarrar ridge, a rounded summit rising above the wooded glen and the winding River Farrar. Though modest in profile, it forms a natural circuit with Sgùrr a’ Choire Ghlais and Sgùrr Fhuar-thuill, offering a gentle introduction to the Monar Forest’s sculptural terrain. Access is uniquely ceremonial: Glen Strathfarrar is a private glen with seasonal vehicle restrictions, requiring awareness and planning. For campervan travellers, access begins at the Strathfarrar gate near Deanie Power Station, with controlled entry and wild parking options nearby.
Trailhead and Parking
- Primary Access Point: Mhullie Greens parking area (just past Deanie Power Station)
- Location: Glen Strathfarrar, off the A831 near Struy
- Grid Reference: NH283386 (trailhead)
- Summit Grid Reference: NH273403
- Capacity: Limited; suitable for discreet daytime campervan access
- Facilities: None at the trailhead
- Charges: Free
- Overnight: Not permitted inside the glen; wild parking possible outside the gate
Seasonal Access Notes
- Summer Vehicle Access (Apr–Oct):
- Controlled by gatekeeper; no prior booking required
- Opening hours vary by month (e.g., 9am–8pm in July)
- Max 25 vehicles per day; arrive early to secure entry
- Full access details available from Mountaineering Scotland
- Winter Access (Nov–Mar):
- Vehicle access restricted to Mountaineering Scotland members
- Requests must be submitted in advance
- Foot and bike access permitted year-round
Route Overview
- Standard Ascent: Circular route via Sgùrr a’ Choire Ghlais and Sgùrr Fhuar-thuill
- Distance: ~28 km round trip
- Elevation Gain: ~1,700 metres
- Terrain: Estate tracks, grassy ridges, quartzite crests
- Time Estimate: 8 to 9 hours
Extensions:
- Often climbed as part of a three-Munro circuit
- Ridge pacing can be adapted for seasonal light and weather
Navigation Notes
- Summit is broad and grassy; easy to miss in the mist
- Estate tracks aid navigation but can be confusing at junctions
- A map and compass are essential; a GPS is helpful for ridge transitions
- Weather can shift quickly; ceremonial pacing and full kit advised
Campervan Suitability
- Day Parking: Mhullie Greens offers informal access just inside the glen
- Overnight Options:
- Struy village: Quiet overnighting outside the glen gate
- Cannich Campsite: Toilets, showers, electric hook-ups
- Wild parking possible in designated laybys outside Glen Strathfarrar
- Facilities: None at the trailhead—pack with foresight
Fuel and Supplies
- Beauly: Fuel station, supermarket, cafés
- Cannich: Small shop and campsite
- Outdoor Gear: Available in Inverness
- Water Refill: Recommended before entering the Strathfarrar corridor
Legacy Log
- Name Origin: “Càrn nan Gobhar” means “cairn of the goats”
- Summit Features: Rounded dome, panoramic views, quiet prominence
- Known For: Glen Strathfarrar access, gentle terrain, and sacred pacing
- Popular With: Ridge walkers, legacy stewards, and those seeking ceremonial immersion
Closing Notes
This is Munro Profile 152 in your campervan-access series. If you’ve passed through the Strathfarrar gate, traced the goat’s cairn, or found a rhythm in the glen’s quiet grace, 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: