Lost Valley (Bidean Nam Bian) — Glencoe National Nature Reserve
Lost Valley (Bidean Nam Bian) — Glencoe National Nature Reserve
4.8
(268)
1,918
hikers
Lost Valley (Bidean Nam Bian) — Glencoe National Nature Reserve
01:43
5.33km
290m
Hiking
The Lost Valley trail begins with a descent to the River Coe, often using steel stairs to reach a bridge, before you climb steeply into the Alt Coire Gabhail river valley. You will navigate rugged, rocky paths, sections requiring easy scrambling, and boulder fields, passing ancient birch woods and cascading waterfalls. This difficult hike covers 3.3 miles (5.3 km) with 946 feet (288 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking 1 hour and 43 minutes to complete. The valley itself is a hidden, emerald-green expanse of grass and house-sized boulders, surrounded by the towering ridges of Gearr Aonach and Beinn Fhada.
This route is considered difficult and demands good physical fitness, sure-footedness, and sturdy hiking shoes. Its
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Tips
Includes segments that may be dangerous
Parts of this route comprise highly technical, difficult, or hazardous terrain. Specialist equipment and prior experience is required.
After 2.01 km for 496 m
After 3.29 km for 496 m
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
16 m
View of the Three Sisters, Glencoe
Highlight • Viewpoint
There's plenty of room for motorists to pull in and take in the sights here. Meanwhile, hikers can use the parking spaces as a starting point for either adventures on the Bidean or to begin an ascent to the Aonach Eagach ridge to the north. However, for the latter, there is more suitable parking along the main road to the east.
Tip by
1.10 km
Coire Gabhail Waterfalls
Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint
Good footwear and sure-footedness are required! You will be rewarded on the way with picturesque paths and waterfalls.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
2.87 km
Path to Bidean nam Bian via Bealach Dearg
Highlight • Gorge
Tip by
5.33 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
2.73 km
1.50 km
1.05 km
< 100 m
Surfaces
3.09 km
2.10 km
127 m
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Elevation
Highest point (400 m)
Lowest point (160 m)
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Weather
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Saturday 18 July
19°C
7°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Comments
Parking in the three sisters car park, heading on the left path down into the valley under the sisters.
An easy going trail without much physical effort, finding a metal staircase down to cross the river and onto the trial of the hidden valley.
The Three Sisters (Aonach Dubh, Beinn Fhada and Gearr Aonach) are part of the Bidean nam Bian mountain range, which rises to 1,150 m. Beinn Fhada and Gearr Aonach are separated by a valley called …
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