Lost Valley (Bidean Nam Bian) — Glencoe National Nature Reserve
Lost Valley (Bidean Nam Bian) — Glencoe National Nature Reserve
4.8
(221)
1,677
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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Wednesday 6 May
13°C
5°C
38 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 18.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
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Trail Reviews
The Lost/Hidden Valley in Glencoe. 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. A very small scramble can be had here or you can easily stick to the paths up to the opening between two of the three sisters. A beautiful area where once the MacKenzie clan once hid their cattle and people from enemies. Highly recommended and a certain gem of a location. Route up and back pretty spot on, most accurate GPS tracking would be to use the route back as the route for both directions.
Many walkers seem to agree that the Hidden Valley (or Lost Valley) walk is one of the most beautiful walks in the entire Glencoe region. 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 Coire Gabhail (Lost Valley or Hidden Valley). This idyllic valley is hidden from view by a landslide that blocked the entrance. It is hard to imagine that in 1692 this region was hit by a bloody war between the Clan MacDonald and the Scottish government troops, in which some 30 members of the clan were killed. The hidden valley was used by the Clan MacDonald to hide their (stolen) cattle. The walk to the valley is popular and therefore not as 'hidden' as you might think. An early start is the message. The path is rocky and very steep in places. There is also a shallow river to cross so you should make sure you have suitable clothing.