Schiehallion
1 NN751558 The walk begins at the Braes of Foss car park, where a memorial commemorates the Schiehallion Experiment of 1774 when the Astronomer Royal, Nevil Maskelyne, became the first to measure the mean density of the Earth by observing the deflection of a pendulum by the mountain’s mass. As part of the experiment the volume of Schiehallion had to be calculated, for which purpose contour lines were invented by Charles Hutton. Take the path south-west out of the back of the car park heading slightly uphill. After about 1km turn right onto the main Schiehallion path by some ruined enclosures. The main path has only followed this route since the John Muir Trust undertook five years of work to move it from its previous course, which had deeply scarred the mountainside.
2 NN748548 Follow this obvious path generally west and uphill onto and along the Schiehallion ridge. Look out for ptarmigan, mountain hares and black grouse as you go. Ptarmigan are often so well-camouflaged against the rocky ground that they’re right by your feet before you notice them!
3 NN732543 At an elevation of about 800m the path peters out onto a boulder field. Follow the ridge line across the boulders for another 1.5km, passing several cairns to reach the summit. In good weather the way from the end of the path to the summit and back is obvious, but in poor visibility it’s easy to lose your way and taking a bearing is recommended. Clambering up onto the unmarked blocky prominence of the summit gives you a nice feeling of accomplishment, along with 360° mountain views. The view west across Rannoch Moor to the peaks of Glen Coe is particularly dramatic.
4 NN713547 Return by the outbound route, taking in the glorious views as you go. Don’t be tempted to cut straight down the old path, as it’s still recovering from its past history of overuse.