Hike Guide to Sgùrr na Banachdich | Cuillin Ridge, Isle of Skye
The Isle of Skye is a hiker’s paradise, renowned for its rugged landscapes and dramatic mountain peaks. Sgùrr na Banachdich, located on the famed Cuillin Ridge, is one of the more accessible summits, offering breathtaking views and a rewarding adventure.
In this hike guide I will provide all the key information on the route up Sgùrr na Banachdich, including where to park, maps, photos and a GPX file.
Key Hike Info
Hike Type: Out and Back
Difficulty: Very Hard
Distance: Approximately 8 km (5 miles)
Elevation Gain: 965m (3,166 feet)
Estimated Time: 4-7 hours
Terrain: Steep and rocky with lots of scree
Technical aspects: None
Best Time to hike: Late spring to early Autumn
Start Point and Parking: Glen Brittle Youth Hostel
Why hike Sgùrr na Banachdich?
Unlike some of the more technically demanding Cuillin peaks, Sgùrr na Banachdich offers a manageable route for experienced hikers without the need for ropes or advanced climbing skills. Its central location on the ridge means you'll enjoy some of the best views the Cuillins have to offer.
Getting there & Parking
From Sligachan, the drive to Glenbrittle takes about 30 minutes. Follow the A863 before turning onto the winding Glenbrittle road. Although the road has been resurfaced in 2024, it is still very narrow. During peak months the narrowness of the road can cause a significant amount of gridlock and tailbacks, so I would advise travelling early or late to avoid getting stuck.
Limited free parking is available outside Glen Brittle Youth Hostel; there is space on the left hand side of the road both before and after the bridge.
Sgùrr na Banachdich route
The route begins by following a well-built path on the right-hand side of the river into Coire na Banachdich. The initial stage is relatively gentle, weaving through moorland, passing a series of beautiful waterfalls and offering views of the surrounding peaks
After 1km the path will branch right and lead away from the river up towards an open moor, this is where it starts to ramp up and get steep. The route eventually leads up the grassy ridge to the crags of An Diallaid. Navigation skills are essential here, as the route isn't always obvious. Look for cairns to guide your way.
Just over 2km into the walk you will hit the steep scree slopes of Coir' an Eich. You can either zig zag your way up the scree slopes or instead head up the steepening grassy slopes that form a ridge leading up to An Diallaid.
The ridge levels off and becomes grassy again before another steeper pull up scree towards the prominent crag of An Diallaid.
Continue to follow the relentless steep path up the steep gully until it you reach the saddle which leads out to Sgurr na Gobhar, from there the path follows a steep but very broad rocky slope that leads up towards the summit.
Sgùrr na Banachdich
The mid-point of the Cuillin Ridge, Sgùrr na Banachdich offers unbelievable 360 degree panoramic view over the west coast of Scotland.
Alongside seeing the entirety of the Isle of Skye and the Cuillin ridge, you will had endless views out over the small Isles, and Outer Hebrides. The highlight has to be with the views along the ridge towards The Inaccessible Pinnacle and Sgùrr Alasdair., alongside down over Loch Coruisk.
Once you have soaked in the majestical mountain views, turn around and retrace your steps by descending back down the way you came.
Final thoughts
Although not technical this route is very difficult and steep, Whats more it culminates up on the Cuillin ridge, which has very steep and dangerous drops. Do not attempt to head up here in adverse weather conditions, opt for a clear, dry and calm day. If in doubt, give it a miss or hire a guide.
That being said, the summit of Sgùrr na Banachdich is one of the most impressive on the Cuillin Ridge, if not the Scottish Highlands. It offers some jaw dropping views, especially at sunset. So make sure you save this hike for a clear day to fully appreciate and enjoy it.
So there we have it, my hike guide to Sgùrr na Banachdich on the Cuillin Ridge, Isle of Skye.
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For more Scottish hiking inspiration check out my other guides below;
Individual hike guides
Area Guides
Alternatively check out my hiking related guides