Pap of Glencoe
Mountain Conical Scottish peak overlooking Glencoe valley
A conical hill above Glencoe, the Pap offers steep hiking routes and scramble-ready ridgelines; walkers aim for clear-weather views down Glencoe valley and across Loch Leven.
The Pap of Glencoe is a distinctive conical mountain in Glen Coe, Scotland, noted for its steep profile and prominence above the valley. Its summit reaches 742 meters and it is a recognizable landmark in the Glencoe landscape.
Walkers can follow steep ascent routes that include rocky sections and a narrow summit ridge; typical climbs are relatively short but require careful footing. From the top there are broad views across Glen Coe and onto neighboring peaks and ridgelines, especially on clear days.
The peak has long been a local landmark within the glen and features in the mountaineering and hillwalking history of the Scottish Highlands. Its name and shape have made it a frequent subject in regional guidebooks and photography.
The Pap rises above Glen Coe in the Highlands of Scotland, close to the A82 road and the village of Glencoe, within the Nevis and West Highlands area.
- Height: Summit elevation is 742 meters, making it a compact but prominent peak in Glen Coe with steep sides visible from the A82 road.
- Climbing and views: A popular short climb with routes that include a steep rocky ridge; good visibility from the summit on clear days across the glen and to nearby peaks.
How to Get to Pap of Glencoe #
The Pap of Glencoe is accessible from the village of Glencoe (on the A82 between Fort William and Crianlarich). Park in the designated laybys or village parking and approach the hill via the permissive paths that start a short walk from the main road; expect a 30-60 minute drive from Fort William.
Tips for Visiting Pap of Glencoe #
- Start the Pap of Glencoe hike early to avoid afternoon winds and changeable weather.
- Wear boots with good ankle support - the route is steep with loose scree near the summit.
- Check Scottish mountaineering council mountain weather forecasts and consider a local guide if unfamiliar with navigation in mist.
Best Time to Visit Pap of Glencoe #
Best visited between late spring and early autumn for longer daylight and more stable conditions; weather remains changeable year-round.
Weather & Climate near Pap of Glencoe #
Pap of Glencoe's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with cool summers (peaking in July) and cold winters (coldest in February). Temperatures range from -1°C to 14°C. Heavy rainfall (2676 mm/year), wettest in January.
January
January is cold with highs of 4°C and lows of 0°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (334 mm), mostly overcast skies, and windy conditions.
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February
February is the coolest month with highs of 4°C and lows of -1°C. Heavy rain (217 mm), mostly overcast skies, and windy conditions.
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March
March is cold with highs of 5°C and lows of 0°C. Heavy rain (253 mm), mostly overcast skies, and windy conditions.
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April
April is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 1°C. Significant rainfall (138 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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May
May is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 4°C. Significant rainfall (128 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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June
June is cold with highs of 13°C and lows of 7°C. Significant rainfall (130 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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July
July is cool with highs of 14°C and lows of 8°C. Significant rainfall (150 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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August
August is cool with highs of 14°C and lows of 8°C. Significant rainfall (176 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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September
September is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 7°C. Heavy rain (250 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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October
October is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of 4°C. Heavy rain (285 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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November
November is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of 1°C. Heavy rain (302 mm), mostly overcast skies, and windy conditions.
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December
December is cold with highs of 4°C and lows of 0°C. Heavy rain (313 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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