Meall na Teanga

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This mountain is quieter than many in the area. It is, of course, required for aspirant Munroists but most others leave it in peace. The approach I took was from the Eas Chia-aig waterfall, by the B8005 at the foot of Loch Arkaig. Here a footpath slopes up through forestry commission plantings to join a larger track, which continues up the Gleann Chia-aig towards Fadden. However, I left it to curve eastwards picking up another path to the Cam Bealach. These woodlands and plantations are an interesting place for mycologists to wander in the autumn.

It didn't look very steep, but it felt it to me. The original plan had been to include Sron a'Choire Gairbh as well, but on looking at it I shortened the plan and headed up Meall na Teanga. As I crawled up it's slopes a few snow flakes fell, but as I arrived at the summit all was well.

The mountain offered splendid views across the Great Glen towards the Grey Corries, the Aonachs and Ben Nevis. The effect is heightened by the steepness of the eastern slopes, which seem to fall straight into Loch Lochy. I headed back along the ridge over Meall Coire Lochan, and had the pleasure of watching a dotterel (a kind of plover) which was more inclined to use it's legs than it's wings to escape me. In summer these birds are found on mountain tops and tundra, and some birders I met a few days later assured me it was an excellent 'tick' to have!