It is almost surrounded by glens: Fionngleann (north), An Caorann Mòr (east) and Allt Cam-bàn (west), with the Bealach a' Chòinich pass (south) linking it to the mountain of Sgùrr an Fhuarail.

The summit is precipitous and rocky, and the southern ridge is steep and in places quite narrow, it offers few dangers for walkers but care is needed in high winds or under winter conditions.

Ciste Dhubh falls to deep glens on all sides except to the south where the mountain is connected to the adjoining Munro of Aonach Meadhoin by a col with a height of 591 metres called the Bealach a’ Choinich (Pass of the Bog).

This pass, which lives up to its translated name, is strategically important as it also connects to the adjacent Corbett of Am Bathach and is vital to the walker who wants to climb the mountain with either or both of these adjoining hills.

It is possible to ascend the mountain from the Alltbeithe youth hostel in upper Glen Affric by climbing the northern ridge.