Geal Charn (Loch Laggan) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Geal Charn |
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![]() The summit of Geal Charn, showing its distinctive summit cone
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Highest point | |
Elevation | 1,049 m (3,442 ft) |
Prominence | 310 m (1,020 ft) |
Listing | Munro, Marilyn |
Geography | |
Location | Highland |
Parent range | Grampian Mountains |
OS grid | NN504811 |
Topo map | OS Landranger 42 |
Geal Charn (pronounced "gyal kharn") is a tall and impressive mountain in the Grampian Mountains of Scotland. It stands 1,049 meters (about 3,442 feet) high, making it one of Scotland's famous "Munros." You can find it in the beautiful Highlands, right by the southern shore of Loch Laggan.
Geal Charn is known for its large size and how it spreads out across the landscape. Its most special feature is its unique, cone-shaped top, which looks really cool from a distance. The closest small town is Kinloch Laggan.
Geal Charn: A Scottish Mountain
Geal Charn is a significant mountain in Scotland. It is part of the Grampian Mountains, a large mountain range. This mountain is located in the Highlands, which is a region known for its stunning natural beauty.
The mountain's name, Geal Charn, comes from Scottish Gaelic. It means "white cairn" or "white hill." This name likely refers to the light-colored rocks or the snow that often covers its summit.
What Makes Geal Charn Special?
Geal Charn is special for a few reasons. First, it is a "Munro." A Munro is a Scottish mountain that is over 3,000 feet (914.4 meters) high. There are 282 Munros in Scotland, and climbing them is a popular challenge for hikers. Geal Charn is also a "Marilyn," which is a hill in the British Isles with a "prominence" of at least 150 meters (492 feet). Prominence means how high a mountain rises above the lowest point connecting it to a higher peak.
The mountain's most striking feature is its summit. It has a very clear and distinctive cone shape at the top. This makes it easy to spot and recognize from far away.
Exploring the Area Around Geal Charn
Geal Charn is located near Loch Laggan, a large freshwater loch (lake). The area around the mountain is wild and beautiful. It is a great place for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring nature.
The landscape here is typical of the Scottish Highlands. You will find vast open spaces, heather-covered hills, and clear streams. It is a peaceful place, far from busy cities.
Hikers who climb Geal Charn often start from areas near Loch Laggan. The climb can be challenging, but it offers amazing views from the top. From the summit, you can see other mountains and the wide expanse of the Highlands.