Highlight • Summit
Schiehallion summit
Hiking
5.0
(69)
Mountaineering
5.0
(4)
Running
5.0
(1)
Cycling
5.0
(1)
A prominent mountain of rich historic interest
In 1774, due to its almost symmetrical shape and isolation, Schiehallion was the subject of a ground-breaking experiment to determine the mass of the Earth by Astronomer Royal, Nevil Maskelyne. The experiment centred around the idea that Schiehallion’s known mass would have a perceptible gravitational attraction on objects and that this effect could be measured. The data was then used to calculate the mass of the Earth.
Maskelyne was assisted in his work by Charles Hutton, who set about calculating the mass of the mountain by triangulating its height at various points. The result of this study was the birth of contour lines. You have Schiehallion to thank for this particularly useful navigational aid we take for granted today.
Most walking routes to Schiehallion’s summit begin from the Braes of Foss car park and ascend via a popular path up the east ridge, although rougher, pathless ascents are possible with considered route planning.
From the top, the view is extensive in all directions. Perhaps the highlight is the distant Glen Etive and Glen Coe mountains rising beyond Rannoch Moor to the west. The Lawers group dominate the view south, with eastern Loch Tay sparkling in the sun on a good day. To the north east, the wild, rounded forms of the Cairngorms roll into the distance, snow-capped in the colder months.
There are various camping options in the surrounding countryside, whilst guest houses and all manner of lodges can also be found around the towns of Pitlochry and Aberfeldy.
In winter conditions, Schiehallion’s great height makes it an objective for equipped mountaineers only.
Tips
December 13, 2019
Hiking
August 19, 2018
Hiking
November 7, 2023
Running
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Schiehallion summit
4.8
(158)
1,725
hikers
10.5km
03:54
690m
690m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
145
runners
10.5km
01:30
690m
690m
Schiehallion from Braes of Foss car park offers a challenging jogging experience, covering 6.5 miles (10.5 km) with a significant 2275 feet (693 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 1 hour and 30 minutes. You start on a well-maintained path made of local stone, offering steady views over Loch Tummel and towards the Cairngorms. As you ascend, the path becomes rockier, and the final 2 kilometers to the summit involve navigating an awkward quartzite boulder field, which is generally unsuitable for jogging due to the risk of injury, but rewards you with expansive views of Loch Rannoch and Rannoch Moor. The mountain's slopes are rich in heather, mosses, and blaeberry, providing varied colors throughout the seasons. This route is rated as difficult overall.
To tackle this route, you'll begin from the Braes of Foss car park, where the initial section provides a good introduction for those new to hillwalking. However, be prepared for the significant increase in difficulty once you reach the boulder field, which demands careful foot placement and concentration, especially on the descent when your legs are tired. In winter, the trail can become partially frozen and very slippery, adding to the challenge. If you're looking for a less strenuous option, an Easy Access Walk is available near the car park.
Schiehallion is one of Scotland's most recognizable and popular Munros, often chosen as a first Munro due to its accessibility. Its distinctive conical shape makes it easily identifiable from a distance. Historically, the mountain played a crucial role in an 18th-century experiment by Nevil Maskelyne to estimate the mass of the Earth, which also led to the first use of contour lines in cartography. The John Muir Trust manages the eastern side of the mountain and has undertaken extensive path repairs to combat erosion, ensuring the quality of the lower path you'll experience.
4.8
(4)
32
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 1,130 m
Good to know
Family Friendly
yes
Wheelchair access
no
Dog Friendly
yes
Weather
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Monday 20 July
22°C
9°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h
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