GLAS MAOL & CREAG LEACACH

Typically approached from the Cairnwell Pass, a far better run is to be had by starting at the head of Glen Isla and finishing via Black Hill and Monamenach. It gives a very runnable round, despite the bogs of Black Hill, of approximately 14 miles and avoids the ski industry’s unsightly scars.

Early summer often sees sizeable snow fields intact and may require winter gear though on this day only one section presented any such obstacle. Two long, pointed stones provided an unorthodox solution to the short but steep section of hard neve that had to be crossed.

The best of the day is without doubt the ridge that runs to the summit of Creag Leacach which gives fine views across the hills west of the Cairnwell Pass as well as back to Glas Maol.

For a longer day of similar character, consider taking Finalty Hill by Spying Hillock and following north and east to the Cairn of Claise before turning south towards Glas Maol.