Càrn an Tionail
Standing between Ben Hee and Meallan Liath Coire Mhic Dhughaill, Càrn an Tionail is the highest point on a broad north-south plateau, its eastern face lined with steep cliffs.
Càrn an Tionail
| Height | 758m |
| Prominence | 209m |
| Meaning | cairn of the gathering |
| Lists | Fionas (F4) |
| Location | Srath Luib na Seilich to Loch Merkland, Loch Shin to the Pentland Firth |
| Grid Ref | NC392390 |
| Lat/Lon | 58.31036, -4.74573 |
South of the mighty peaks of Foinaven and Ben Hope, Càrn an Tionail occupies a commanding position in a quiet corner of Sutherland, overlooking Loch Merkland. Along with its neighbouring minor summit of A' Ghlaise, the high ground forms a wide, open plateau above the upper reaches of the Allt na Glaise.
From a southerly approach, the hill appears as a gentle dome, but as the track is followed uphill, its eastern flanks begin to tell a different story - steep crags and cliffs drop abruptly towards the glen, giving the mountain a more dramatic character.
Càrn an Tionail's summit is expansive and featureless, with the highest point difficult to determine on the ground. A cairn tries to pinpoint, comes close, but not quite marking it.
Extensive views can be had from the summit plateau across the far north-west, with a fine outlook to Foinaven, Arkle and Cranstackie, as well as north-eastwards towards Ben Hope and Ben Loyal.
Routes up Càrn an Tionail
Càrn an Tionail and Beinn Direach | |
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Circuit from West Merkland over Meall a' Chlèirich, Beinn Direach and Càrn an Tionail with varied terrain and expansive north-west Highland views. Peaks : 2 Fionas/Grahams
Ascent : 965m (3170ft) Distance : 17km (11m) Time : 5:50hr* | |
Nearby hills and mountains
* Times shown are estimates – see timing notes on the disclaimer page for more information.








