Highlight (Segment) • Mountain Pass
Mountain biking
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Gravel riding
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The Corrieyairack Pass, known in Scottish Gaelic as Màm Choire Ghearraig, is a historic mountain pass in the heart of the Scottish Highlands. Reaching an elevation of 770 meters (2,526 feet), this challenging route traverses the remote Monadhliath Mountains, forming a vital east-west connection between Laggan in Badenoch and Fort Augustus on Loch Ness. It is most famous for General Wade's Military Road, an 18th-century engineering marvel built during the Jacobite Risings.
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5.0
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2
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76.8km
07:12
1,670m
1,660m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Distance 18.5 km
Uphill 410 m
Downhill 660 m
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The Corrieyairack Pass can be accessed from both the Laggan side (east) and the Fort Augustus side (west). On the Laggan side, parking is typically available near Garvamore, close to the start of General Wade's Military Road. From the Fort Augustus side, access points are usually found further south of the town. Due to the remote nature of the pass, parking areas are generally informal and can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. There are no formal parking permits required.
The Corrieyairack Pass is widely considered a challenging route, not suitable for beginners. It involves significant elevation gain, with the pass reaching 770 meters (2,526 feet), and the terrain features loose rocks, steep sections, and several creek crossings. One user described the climb as 'brutal but beautiful.' Hikers and mountain bikers should have a good level of fitness and experience in remote, mountainous environments.
Absolutely. The most prominent feature is General Wade's Military Road itself, an 18th-century engineering marvel. As you ascend, you'll encounter a series of twelve steep zig-zags, a remarkable part of the original road. Other historical points include the old barracks and former inn at Garvamore, and the impressive Garva Bridge over the River Spey, also built by General Wade. The remote setting also offers magnificent views of the Monadhliath Mountains.
The best time to visit Corrieyairack Pass is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to October) when the weather is generally milder and daylight hours are longer. During these months, the pass is more accessible, though conditions can change rapidly in the Highlands. Winter walking is possible but requires significant experience, proper winter gear, and an understanding of avalanche risks, as the pass can be covered in snow and ice, making it extremely challenging and potentially dangerous.
Yes, Corrieyairack Pass is generally dog-friendly, offering a fantastic experience for well-behaved dogs. However, due to the remote and wild nature of the area, it's crucial to keep dogs under close control, especially around livestock (sheep and deer are common) and ground-nesting birds. Be prepared for varied terrain, including loose rocks and stream crossings, and ensure your dog is fit enough for a long, challenging walk. Always carry enough water for both yourself and your dog, as natural water sources can be unreliable.
The Corrieyairack Pass is located in a very remote part of the Scottish Highlands, meaning there are very few facilities directly on the route. There are no cafes or pubs immediately adjacent to the pass. The nearest amenities for food, drink, and accommodation would be in the larger villages or towns such as Laggan, Fort Augustus, or Newtonmore, which are some distance away. There is a bothy along the route, which offers basic shelter for overnight stays, but it's essential to be self-sufficient.
The time it takes to complete the Corrieyairack Pass varies significantly depending on your starting point, chosen route, and mode of transport. For a full traverse on foot, it can take a dedicated hiker anywhere from 8 to 12 hours, covering a distance of approximately 34 km (21 miles) from Garvamore to Fort Augustus. Mountain bikers might complete it faster, perhaps in 4-7 hours, but the challenging terrain with loose rocks and steep sections will still demand considerable effort and time.
While the full traverse of Corrieyairack Pass is often done as a linear route connecting Laggan and Fort Augustus, sections of it can be incorporated into longer circular routes or form part of multi-day adventures. The pass itself is a key segment of the Scottish National Trail and is also part of the GBDIVIDE route, popular with long-distance cyclists. For shorter options, hikers might choose to ascend to the summit from one side and return the same way, rather than completing the full traverse.
The remote and wild landscape of Corrieyairack Pass is home to various Scottish Highland wildlife. Keep an eye out for red deer, which are common in the area. Birdwatchers might spot birds of prey such as golden eagles or buzzards soaring overhead, as well as grouse and other moorland birds. The pass's isolation makes it an excellent place for wildlife observation, though sightings are never guaranteed.
Due to its remote location, direct public transport to the immediate trailheads of Corrieyairack Pass is extremely limited or non-existent. The nearest public transport links would be to towns like Fort Augustus or Laggan, from which you would likely need to arrange a taxi or have private transport to reach the start of the pass itself. Planning for transport to and from the pass is a critical consideration for any visit.