An Socach, Glen Cannich

An Socach is the most westerly of the four Munros lining the northern side of Loch Mullardoch. In contrast to its craggier neighbours, it is largely clad in heather and grass, though its summit forms a graceful curve around the rim of a steep corrie that plunges to a small lochan some 200 m below. A narrow, often breezy col links the peak to the south-western arm of An Riabhachan, making it a natural bookend to the northern ridge.

Reaching An Socach requires a long effort due to its position at the far western end of the Mullardoch ridge. Most walkers climb it as part of the full northern Mullardoch circuit, taking in Càrn nan Gobhar, Sgùrr na Lapaich and An Riabhachan in a demanding day. Tackling the ridge east to west leaves An Socach as the final Munro, but this means a long, tiring walk back along the lochside to the dam. A popular alternative is to shorten the return by using the Loch Mullardoch Ferry to reach the far western end of the loch, then traverse the Munros eastwards to Càrn nan Gobhar and back to the dam, rather than facing a lengthy trudge out.

Routes up An Socach

Nearby hills and mountains

* Times shown are estimates – see timing notes on the disclaimer page for more information.