From the parking lot at the head of the loch the slabs are clearly visible up on the hillside. From this distance they look both small, and very easy angled. They appear this way only from the parking lot.
The slab climbing at on these slabs is the best in the United Kingdom. Protection is adequate for the majority of the climbs, and the situation with the beautiful views all around is second to none.
Getting There
As you head west into the start of Glen Coe, the massive granite mountain of Buachaille Etive Mor is clearly seen on your left. Turn left following the road sight to Glen Etive before the Buachaille. Follow the road to its end at Gualachulain, and the head of Loch Etive.
Hike up the path towards the slabs, crossing over a couple of streams. At the bottom of the slabs a very distinctive coffin shaped rock provides a good landmark, and a place to drop your pack.
The hike will take 40-60 mins.
The Classics
Mountain Project's determination of some of the classic, most popular, highest rated routes for Beinn Trilleachan - Etive Slabs:
The hardest climbing on the route is on the very last pitch - it is well protected and steep, unlike anything else on the route. The lower slabby pitches are very committing.1. Climb up the right crack until a ledge and belay.2. Move up the slab and rightwards and belay below a small overlap.3. Climb up and over the bulge to below the large overhang formed by the slab above.4. Climb up to the overlap, and using good holds gain a standing po...[more]Browse More Classics in International
Photos of Beinn Trilleachan - Etive Slabs Slideshow
Would also suggest that the use of a local guide book is recommended as it isn't too difficult to pad up a pitch thinking it is 5.10a only to get past the point of no return on a 5.11b/c slab on a neighbouring route 30 metres from last runner with potential for a big rasper (70mts+) Still your slab climbing will certainly improve.
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