Ben Nevis via Càrn Mòr Dearg Arête

The UK's ultimate mountain ridge traverse & Grade 1 scramble

Route Overview

For experienced hillwalkers and scramblers, the Càrn Mòr Dearg (CMD) Arête is undeniably the finest way to climb Ben Nevis. Starting from the North Face car park at Torlundy, the trail winds through Leanachan Forest before heading out into the open moorland towards Càrn Dearg Meadhonach. A relentless, grassy and rocky ascent brings you to the summit of Càrn Mòr Dearg (1,220m), where the full magnificence of the Ben Nevis North Face is revealed in all its colossal glory. From here, you embark on the legendary CMD Arête—a sweeping, narrow horseshoe ridge of granite boulders and exposed pinnacles with dizzying drops on either side. After traversing the arête, a steep, bouldery scramble up the final wall leads straight onto the summit plateau of Ben Nevis, returning down the Allt a' Mhuilinn valley.

Travel & Getting There from London Victoria

By Train: Take the Caledonian Sleeper from London Euston to Fort William Station. Taxis from Fort William station to North Face Car Park in Torlundy take approx 8 minutes. (Station: Fort William Station, then 8 min taxi to Torlundy, duration: 10h Overnight Sleeper from London Euston).

By Bus: Take coach from Victoria Coach Station to Fort William, then take local bus or Citylink coach 3 miles north along A82 to Torlundy junction. (12h 45m - 14h 15m from London Victoria)

By Car & Parking: Nearest car park is North Face Forestry Commission Car Park, Torlundy (PH33 6SW). Drive time from London Victoria is approx 9h 35m - 11h 00m from London Victoria (508 miles via M1, M6, M74, A82 past Fort William to Torlundy). From London Victoria, follow M1, M6, M74 to Glasgow, take A82 north through Glen Coe to Fort William, continue 3 miles north on A82 towards Spean Bridge, and turn right at the sign for North Face Trail / Torlundy.

Trailside Cafes & Historic Country Pubs

Refreshment and dining stops located along or near the Ben Nevis via Càrn Mòr Dearg Arête trail:

• ☕ The Moorings Hotel & Bistro: Traditional pub and refreshment stop for walkers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I travel to Ben Nevis via Càrn Mòr Dearg Arête from London?

Take the Caledonian Sleeper from London Euston to Fort William Station. Taxis from Fort William station to North Face Car Park in Torlundy take approx 8 minutes. (Station: Fort William Station, then 8 min taxi to Torlundy, duration: 10h Overnight Sleeper from London Euston).

Where is the closest car park for Ben Nevis via Càrn Mòr Dearg Arête?

Nearest car park is North Face Forestry Commission Car Park, Torlundy (PH33 6SW). Drive time from London Victoria is approx 9h 35m - 11h 00m from London Victoria (508 miles via M1, M6, M74, A82 past Fort William to Torlundy). From London Victoria, follow M1, M6, M74 to Glasgow, take A82 north through Glen Coe to Fort William, continue 3 miles north on A82 towards Spean Bridge, and turn right at the sign for North Face Trail / Torlundy.

How long is the hike and what is the terrain difficulty?

Ben Nevis via Càrn Mòr Dearg Arête covers 18.5 km (11.5 miles) with an estimated duration of 8.5 - 10 hours, graded as Hard. Starts at North Face Car Park, Torlundy and finishes at North Face Car Park, Torlundy.