Am Bodach, West Highlands
Glencoe and Ben Nevis attract most of the walkers in the West Highlands, but exploring the centre of the Mamores affords views of both ranges and beyond.
Towering above Kinlochleven, Am Bodach sits at the heart of the Mamores range. Sandwiched between Ben Nevis to the north and the Aonoch Eagach ridge to the south (confusingly home to another Am Bodach), this craggy pinnacle is one of the best seats in the house for West Highland views. There are several approaches to Am Bodach, including the justifiably renowned Ring of Steall. With shorter days or less time available, the direct route from the shore of Loch Leven is the way to go.
On the initial climb, following good forest tracks, the Aonach Eagach and northern mountains of Glen Coe are skylined above the loch. An early start is best, breaking through the forestry land in time to witness the sunlight gradually unveiling the ridge.
The route up into Coire na h-Eirghe takes a stalkers’ path winding along the stream but can be a challenge in some conditions. The reward comes on entering the saddle at the head of the coire where spectacular views open up. The final ascent to Am Bodach is exposed and windy, but the vista from the top is extraordinary, with the impression of peaks and ridges stretching to the ends of the earth and beyond.