Bidean nam Bian Walk

Route Description for Bidean nam Bian Walk

The Bidean nam Bian Walk will have you huffing and puffing as you revel in a highlight reel of the Highland landscape. However, reaching the summits will require some minor scrambling, undertaking scree sections and rocky areas. Try to avoid this route in winter or when there's snow on the ground—note that snow can linger until the summer, so always come prepared with the proper equipment. We recommend this walk to experienced hillwalkers who have traversed tricky terrain to reach various summits under their belt.

With that being said, the Bidean nam Bian Walk boasts a range of wonders: two Munros (Bidean nam Bian and Stob Coire Sgreamhach), Glen Coe, a waterfall along the climb into Stob Coire nan Lochan, and even Ben Nevis from afar. This walk boasts unreal scenery, and we recommend checking it out for yourself whenever you feel ready and up for the challenge!

To start your adventure, head to either the Three Sisters Parking Lot or Lost Valley Parking Lot. Aim to arrive early as it can get busy! Immediately, you'll spot the Three Sisters attracting all eyes in the backdrop. To begin the Bidean nam Bian Walk, look for the path descending to the bottom of the glen, where you'll go right for a moment before taking a left to go towards a footbridge over the River Coe. Here, you'll start your steady climb into Coire nan Lochan—keep on the left side as you ascend. Most of the path is easy to navigate, but get ready for some minor scrambling when the track nears the stream.

The unveiling of stunning views continues—marvel at the waterfalls, vistas in Glen Coe, with Stob Coire nan Lochan's peak standing tall ahead. A little further on, you'll see a small waterfall near a boulder; take a right here to follow a not-as-obvious path for the more scenic route! After crossing the burn and a boggy section, head up a grassy section to the west before going southwest into the coire. Bask in the views!

From here, go northwest to reach the foot of the north ridge of Stob Coire nan Lochan before taking a left to climb to the summit. The ridgeline may look sketchy from here, but the top takes you along boulders while revealing excellent views of the gullies and cliffs on your left. When you get to the summit, you'll be standing at 1,115 m, but this peak does not classify as a Munro due to its proximity to Bidean nam Bian. Looking below, the thought of climbing to the Bidean may seem frighteningly challenging, but it's not as bad as you think! Go to the bealach, taking on gentle scree, before following the path. Staying left, head up the steep portion toward the summit of Bidean nam Bian (1,150 m). Let your eyes feast on the panoramic views boasting Loch Etive, Beinn a'Bheithir, Aonach Eagach, and Ben Nevis.

After, keep meandering the ridge towards Stob Coire Sgreamhach, the second Munro. Hopefully, the surrounding scenery will keep you well entertained as you tackle small summits! And as always, take care along the ridge. After dipping to Bealach Dearg, the ridge will rise yet again, taking you along one more steep section of boulders before reaching Stob Coire Sgreamhach's summit (1,072 m). Take in more views here: Buachaille Etive Beag and Buachaille Etive Mòr, Loch Etive backed by Ben Starav, and Ben Cruachan. Then, head back to Bealach Dearg to start your descent.

Go north into Coire Gabhail. Be careful of snow here—that fluffy white stuff sometimes covers the path deep into the summer. You'll see a scree gully going down, but ignore this and take the makeshift path descending over rocks to the right. After completing this first section, follow the path down the scree. The trail improves the further down you go! Hugging the coire's left side, you'll get the chance to admire the stream snaking through the gorge. But the views don't stop there! At the end of the core, you'll reach Lost Valley!

Follow the obvious path that ascends just a bit before dipping again. You'll have to take on another easy scramble section with a steep drop just to your left. However, you could avoid this scramble if you climb the boulder right in front of you instead. After, follow the stepping stones in the stream before reaching a faster river. Take the bridge here and follow the path back through lovely woodland towards the wide track and back to your car!

Trail Highlights

Lost Valley

The Lost Valley (Coire Gabhail) was where the Macdonalds used to keep their stolen cattle. This beautiful area boasts magical green scenery flanked by mountain slopes and boulders bigger than homes!

Are you looking to explore Lost Valley without the Munros? Check out our route guide for Lost Valley (Coire Gabhail) Walk.

Bidean nam Bian

Standing tall on the south end of Glen Coe in the Scottish Highlands, Bidean nam Bian boasts many ridges and soaring peaks. But Bidean nam Bian isn’t the only Munro along this ridge! Stob Coire Sgreamhach takes the slot as the other Munro. You may also hear some call Bidean nam Bian by its alternate name: The Three Sisters, which consists of three peaks, Aonach Dubh, Beinn Fhada and Gearr Aonach.