Aonach Eagach

Aonach Eagach is a jagged ridge in the Scottish Highlands that marks the northern edge of Glen Coe. The ridge runs east to west for several kilometres and includes two Munro summits: Sgùrr nam Fiannaidh and Meall Dearg. The terrain is rocky and demands scrambling skills, while the steep slopes on either side hide cliffs that drop away sharply. The ridge is known for its narrow sections and limited escape routes once climbers commit to the traverse. Local climber Noel Williams describes it as one of the most difficult horizontal scrambles in mainland Scotland. The ridge is usually tackled as an east–west traverse from Glen Coe, with the best starting point near Allt-na-reigh. The route passes over several pinnacles and can take more than two hours to cover just two kilometres between the two Munros. In winter, the traverse becomes even harder, requiring ropes on some sections and posing risks of being caught out after dark. Experienced scramblers can reverse the route to descend Am Bodach, avoiding the long walk back up the glen. Descent options include steep paths near Clachaig gully or gentler routes via the Pap of Glencoe. The Devil’s Staircase crosses the ridge about six kilometres east of Meall Dearg and is part of the West Highland Way. The path was named by soldiers during General Wade’s road-building programme because of its steep, difficult climb. Later, workers building the Blackwater Dam found the return journey from the Kings House Hotel treacherous after a night of drinking. In 1692, the path served as the approach route for troops heading to Glencoe. The ridge remains a serious mountaineering challenge, with several fatal incidents recorded in recent years.