Foinaven
About Foinaven
Foinaven is a remote and spectacular mountain in Sutherland, featuring white quartzite screes and dramatic corries. The mountain requires a long approach through wild country.
Height & Prominence of Foinaven
Foinaven stands at 911 metres (2989 feet) above sea level, according to Ordnance Survey data. Its topographic prominence is 711 metres, meaning it rises at least that far above the col connecting it to the nearest higher peak. Foinaven is part of the Northwest Highlands. The OS grid reference is NC 318507, which you can use to locate the summit on any Ordnance Survey Explorer or Landranger map.
Foinaven carries the classifications of Corbett, Marilyn.
Location & Nearest Towns
Foinaven is located in Scotland, Highland. It sits in the Assynt area.
For official access information and any seasonal restrictions, check the relevant national park authority.
Safety Tips
Always check forecasts before setting out. Summit conditions differ dramatically from valley level.
Carry map, compass/GPS, water, food, first aid, whistle, torch, and waterproofs.
Tell someone your route and return time. Stick to marked paths. Be ready to turn back.
Ask for Police, then Mountain Rescue. Know your grid reference.
On the Mountain: Walking Foinaven
Foinaven is a hard walk that rewards careful planning. The summit sits at 911m, where conditions can feel distinctly different from the valley — wind speeds are typically 30–50% stronger above 800m, and the temperature drops roughly 1°C for every 100m of ascent. In cloud, the cairn at the top can be hard to spot, so keep a map and compass to hand even on well-marked paths.
After your walk, the nearest village is a good place for a pint and a debrief. For detailed route descriptions and trip reports from other walkers, Walkhighlands is an excellent resource.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Foinaven one of the best mountains to climb in the UK?
Yes, Foinaven is considered one of the best mountains to climb in the UK thanks to its scenic routes, 911m elevation, and hard difficulty level.
What difficulty level is Foinaven?
Foinaven has a difficulty rating of Hard. Various routes are available for different experience levels.
When is the best time to climb Foinaven?
The best season is Spring to Autumn. Summit temperatures are typically 5–10°C colder than the valley, and conditions can change rapidly.
Why Visit Foinaven?
Foinaven stands at 911m (2989ft) in Scotland, Highland. Classified as a Corbett and Marilyn, it is a rewarding destination for hikers, climbers, and photographers.
Browse our UK mountains directory to discover more peaks, or see all mountains A–Z.
Nearby Peaks to Explore
Looking beyond Foinaven? These peaks are close by and worth exploring.
