The Three Sisters of Glencoe: A Hiking Guide
The Three Sisters of Glencoe are three dramatic ridges on the northern slopes of Bidean nam Bian, one of the highest mountains in the Glencoe area. The three ridges are Aonach Dubh, Gearr Aonach and Beinn Fhada, rising above the A82 as it passes through Glen Coe.
Part of one of Scotland's most recognisable Highland landscapes, the Three Sisters attract walkers, photographers and visitors travelling through Glencoe. While the mountains can be admired from the road and surrounding viewpoints, reaching the higher summits involves steep, rocky and complex terrain and should only be attempted with appropriate experience and preparation.
For those looking to experience the landscape without tackling a full mountain route, there are shorter walks and viewpoints nearby, including the popular route to Coire Gabhail, better known as the Lost Valley.
The Three Sisters of Glencoe at a Glance
- Location: Glen Coe, Scottish Highlands
- Mountain: Bidean nam Bian
- Three ridges: Aonach Dubh, Gearr Aonach and Beinn Fhada
- Highest summit: Bidean nam Bian, 1,150m
- Full mountain route: Around 11km
- Typical walking time: Around 7-9 hours
- Ascent: Around 1,316m
- Terrain: Steep, rocky and complex, with sections of scree and mild scrambling
- Nearest road: A82 through Glen Coe
Route statistics can vary depending on the route taken and conditions. The full Bidean nam Bian route is a challenging mountain walk rather than a straightforward hill walk.
Finding the Three Sisters in Glencoe
The Three Sisters are located in Glen Coe, on the south side of the A82. The viewpoint and main walking route can be reached from the A82 as it travels through the glen.
Where is it? The Three Sisters are part of the Bidean nam Bian mountain range in Glen Coe, in the Scottish Highlands. The village of Glencoe is a short drive further west along the A82.
How to get there: For the main Three Sisters viewpoint and walking route, search for Three Sisters Car Park, Glencoe using a navigation app or mapping service. The car park is beside the A82 and provides views across the Three Sisters.
Parking can become busy, particularly during popular periods, so arriving earlier in the day can make finding a space easier.
What Are the Three Sisters of Glencoe?
The name 'Three Sisters' refers to three distinctive ridges extending from Bidean nam Bian towards Glen Coe. From west to east, these are Aonach Dubh, Gearr Aonach and Beinn Fhada.
Although the three ridges dominate the view from the road, the summit of Bidean nam Bian is hidden further within the mountain range. At 1,150m, Bidean nam Bian is the highest mountain in Glencoe and one of the Munros found in the area.
The landscape itself was shaped by volcanic activity and later carved by glaciers, creating the steep-sided glen, ridges and dramatic corries visible today.
Three Sisters Glencoe walk
Walking the Three Sisters is considerably more demanding than viewing them from the A82.
A full route over Bidean nam Bian and the surrounding summits is around 11km and can take approximately 7-9 hours, with more than 1,300m of ascent. The terrain is steep, rocky and complex, with sections of loose scree and mild scrambling. The descent from Bealach Dearg can be particularly steep and loose.
This is therefore a route for experienced hillwalkers who are comfortable navigating mountainous terrain and dealing with changing conditions. It should not be treated as a beginner's walking route.
Before setting out, check the mountain forecast and make sure you have suitable footwear, waterproof and warm layers, food, water, navigation equipment and a headtorch. Mobile phone coverage cannot be relied upon in the mountains, so carrying a map and knowing how to use it is important.
If conditions are poor or you are unsure whether the route is suitable for your experience, choose a lower-level walk instead.
The Lost Valley: A Shorter Glencoe Walk
If a full day in the mountains isn't for you, Coire Gabhail, or the Lost Valley, offers another way to experience the landscape beneath the Three Sisters.
The route takes you through a narrow gorge before opening out into the hidden valley surrounded by the mountain ridges. It takes around 2-3 hours and involves steep sections, uneven ground and rocky terrain, so sturdy footwear and appropriate clothing are still essential.
The valley also has an important connection to Glencoe's history.
The MacDonalds used the secluded landscape to conceal cattle they had taken from neighbouring clans, while some members of the clan later fled into the valley during the events of the 1692 Massacre of Glencoe.
Can You See the Three Sisters Without Hiking?
Absolutely. One of the easiest ways to experience the Three Sisters is simply to stop at the viewpoint beside the A82.
The dramatic ridges rise directly above the road, making them one of the most recognisable sights in Glen Coe. You don't need to climb the mountain to appreciate the landscape, and the viewpoint is a good option for visitors who want to take photographs or experience the scenery without committing to a full-day mountain route.
There are also numerous other viewpoints and shorter walks throughout Glen Coe, so you can build a scenic day in the area without tackling a Munro.
The Scenic Route to the Three Sisters
En route to the Three Sisters there are various photo opportunities and other sights to see along the A82 and throughout Glencoe. You’ll find an abundance of rolling hills and waterfalls, and be rewarded with stunning scenic vistas showcasing the incredible landscape of the Scottish Highlands.
If you are on your way to Glencoe, you’ll find Scotland’s most photographed mountain, Buachaille Etive Mòr, known for its iconic shape and prominence in the Glencoe skyline. We don’t think you’ll miss it but pop it into your maps and it’ll bring you to the closest point to admire its peak and snap a quick photo.
Plus, if you want to extend your road trip, you should take a trip down the Glen Etive Road which affords 12 miles of incredible scenery and the recognisable landscape that played its part in James Bond’s Skyfall film.
Find out more about the scenic road trip through the Glencoe Valley.
Exploring More of Glencoe
The Three Sisters are just one part of the wider Glencoe landscape. The area offers everything from short woodland and riverside walks to challenging Munros and mountain routes.
For a more relaxed day outdoors, the Glencoe Greenway, Signal Rock and An Torr offer alternatives to the higher mountain routes. The National Trust for Scotland also maintains a network of footpaths throughout Glencoe, with options for different abilities.
Glencoe is also a place of significant history and culture. The landscape has strong connections to Clan MacDonald and the events of the Massacre of Glencoe in 1692, while the surrounding mountains and glen preserve a rich natural and geological heritage.
When is the Best Time to Visit The Three Sisters?
The Three Sisters can be viewed throughout the year, but conditions on the mountains vary significantly with the seasons.
Spring and summer generally provide longer daylight hours, while autumn brings changing colours across the glen. Winter can transform the landscape with snow and ice, but mountain conditions become considerably more demanding and require appropriate winter skills and equipment.
Whatever time of year you visit, check the forecast before setting out and be prepared to change your plans if conditions deteriorate.
Staying in Glencoe
Exploring Glencoe and the Three Sisters offers the experience to discover some of Scotland’s best landscapes. Whether you visit in the height of summer or in the winter when the valley is dusted with snow, the scenery is simply hard to beat.
Following a challenging, yet rewarding day of hiking around Bidean Nam Bian, you can retreat to Glencoe Inn which offers the perfect Highland base and a peaceful night’s rest for all who visit and explore the wonderful Glencoe surroundings.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Three Sisters of Glencoe
No. Bidean nam Bian is the mountain range, while the Three Sisters are the three prominent northern ridges extending from it: Aonach Dubh, Gearr Aonach and Beinn Fhada.
A full Bidean nam Bian route is around 11km and typically takes approximately 7-9 hours, depending on the route, conditions and individual experience.
The full mountain route is not considered suitable for beginners. The terrain is steep, rocky and complex, with sections of scree and mild scrambling, as well as challenging navigation.
Yes. The Three Sisters can be viewed from the A82 and the nearby viewpoint, making it possible to enjoy the scenery without completing the full mountain route.
The Lost Valley, or Coire Gabhail, is a hidden valley within the Three Sisters landscape. The walk takes around 2-3 hours and includes steep and rocky sections, so appropriate footwear and preparation are still recommended.
Conditions can change quickly, so waterproof outer layers, warm clothing and sturdy walking footwear are recommended. For mountain routes, additional navigation and safety equipment may be required depending on the season and conditions.
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