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Head east along the broad summit ridge, with a small path. The path skirts to left of the 908m top to the trig point on Beinn Cheathaich. Head north, on a pleasantly angled grassy ridge ideal for descent. At 680m look out for a track on the right – its start is just beyond a bare peat patch, itself just to right of the ill-defined crest line. The track contours right, southeast, across a stream, then turns downhill to left of the main Lubchurran Burn.

The track passes a small water intake, then passes to left of Lubchurran house. The river crossing beyond is a shallow ford – a former footbridge downstream no longer exists. Turn right on the track beyond, back to the car park.

Meall Garbh summit ridge (Route 12)

ROUTE 12

The Tarmachans

Start/finishNational Trust car park (former visitor centre) on high road below Lochan na Lairige NN607378Distance14.5km/9 milesAscent850m/2800ftApprox time5½hrMax altitudeMeall nan Tarmachan 1044mTerrainWell-built ascent path, clear ridge path with one rocky descent, small descent path and grassy track

The multitude of small pointy summits along the ridge gives the Tarmachans a feel of miniature mountaineering. None of the tops apart from Meall nan Tarmachan itself is a Munro. Accordingly, this ridge is ‘purely for pleasure’. The path weaves among the rocky knolls, and the only moment of distress may be the descent from Meall Garbh. The bare rock here isn’t a natural scramble: it’s been exposed by human footfalls over the years. It’s in a rather exposed position, and uncomfortable or worse when wet or under snow.