The Hardest Hikes on the Isle of Skye: 11 of the best routes
The Isle of Skye is a hiker’s paradise, boasting some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Scotland. From dramatic cliffs and rugged peaks to serene beaches and mystical glens, Skye offers trails for all levels of hikers.
In this blog I highlight 11 of the hardest and what I would regard as the best hikes on the Isle of Skye, (nearly) all of which I have completed myself.
I have grouped the hikes into two categories: Hard, and very hard / extreme.
You will also find OS Maps routes alongside GPX files for each route.
At the end of the blog I list my favourite hikes on the Isle of Skye alongside tips and equipment for hiking safely.
Grading of the hikes
I want to touch upon the grading of the hikes and the dangers of undertaking them without the correct level of experience, skill, and equipment.
Just because you’ve seen someone do it on Tiktok, It doesn’t give you the skillset to go and try it yourself.
If your unsure, hire a guide or give it a miss.
The mountains will always be there and its unpaid volunteers which have to rescue you if something does go wrong.
Hard Hikes
These walks would be characterised by either being relatively long and/or involving a significant amount (600-1,000m) of elevation gain. They will also navigate some sections of steep and possibly technical terrain which may require elements of scrambling (using your hands).
The hikes will usually take several hours to complete so a good level of fitness and experience is required alongside the correct and appropriate clothing, equipment, and weather conditions. They would not be suitable for children, however would be suitable for four legged friends.
Very hard and Technical Hikes
All of these hikes are located on the notorious Cuillin Ridge, which is the narrowest ridge in the UK. They involved significant distances, alongside over 1,000m of elevation gain. Aspects of these hikes will also involve very exposed and technical scrambling alongside steep sections of lose scree.
Only undertake these hikes if you have the competency (don’t mistake this for confidence) and correct equipment to do so.
A good head for heights, lots of experience on grade 3 scrambles, and stable and grippy footwear is essential.
Don’t undertake these hikes alone and consider carrying a helmet and a emergency SOS device for extra safety.
Finally start as early as you can and make sure weather forecast is clear, calm, and dry. Being up on the Cuillin ridge in high winds, rain, and poor visibility is a recipe for disaster.
Hard Hikes
The Storr
Whilst most visitors will take the time to hike up to the iconic Old Man of Storr, not many will venture a little higher the 714m high Storr.
This tougher and longer alternative walk leads through the iconic landscape of the Old man before heading on up to the summit, giving superb views in all directions. Thsis hike is perfect for those wanting a bit more challenge and to escape the crowds.
Key Hike Info
Hike Type: Loop
Hike Distance: 8 km
Elevation Gain: 600m
Hike Duration: 3-5 hours
Technical Aspects: some rugged, rocky sections
2. Sgùrr na Stri
At 494 metres Sgùrr Na Strì is barely a blip on the Scottish landscape but what it lacks in height it certainly makes up for in views. The panorama from the summit is regarded as one of thee finest in britain, offering incredible views of the Cuillin ridge, Loch Coruisk, and the Small Isles.
There are two main ways to reach Sgurr na stri which i have outlined below. Both are long and quite difficult.
I have only hiked to Sgurr na Stri from Kilmarie. I would recommend this route over the one from Sligachan as its shorter in distance, more scenic, and can be combined with a stay at Camasunary bothy
Navigation from Camasunary beach to Sgùrr Na Strìcan be a little difficult and does involve crossing a river, so caution is advised and having the route to hand is essential.
from Sligachan
Hike Type: Out and Back
Hike Distance: 24 km
Elevation Gain: 800m
Hike Duration: 8-10 hours
Technical aspects: None but lots of bog
Start Point & Parking: Sligachan Old Bridge
from Kilmarie
Hike Type: Out and Back
Hike Distance: 16.5 km
Elevation Gain: 900 m
Hike Duration: 6-8 hours
Technical Aspects: A river crossing alongside a relatively steep unmarked climb
Start Point & Parking: Kilmarie
3. Blà Bheinn (Blaven)
Blà Bheinn - is part of the Red Cuillin Ridge and- stands apart from the rest of the Cuillin Ridge on Skye. The towering mountain is often overlooked but the summit has some of the best views in Scotland. Although non-technical, its steep gradients and rugged terrain demand serious effort, however the reward will hopefully be spectacular, panoramic views of the Cuillin.
Key Hike Info
Hike Type: Out and Back
Hike Distance: 8km
Elevation Gain: 950 m
Hike Duration: 4-7 hours
Technical Aspects: non-technical steep ascents and exposed sections
Munros: Blà Bheinn
Start Point & Parking: Blà Bheinn Car Park
4. Bruach na Frìthe
The least demanding and non technical munro on the Black Cuillin ridge, this hike is a ideal for those wanting to experience Skye mythical ridge without being on an exposed ridge line. Despite it being the ‘easiest’ of the Cuillin ridge munros, its still a very demanding day hike which does involve steep sections and plenty loose scree.
I would put this hike on the cusp of very hard territory. The route I have listed below takes the the ridge up to the summit. this can be avoided altogether. by heading up and down the scree path.
Key Hike Info
Hike Type: Out and Back
Hike Distance: 14 km
Elevation Gain: 950 m
Hike Duration: 6-7 hours
Technical Aspects: Long, sustained climbs with an option of rugged ridge walking
Start Point & Parking: A863 outside Sligachan
very hard and Technical Hikes
5. Bruach na Frìthe & Am Bastier
A slight extension from the route outlined above. The reason why its warrants the very hard/technical tag is due to a section of down climbing on Am Bastier which is both exposed and technical.
The reward is bagging two munros alongside an incredible panoramic view from one of, if not most prominent munros in the UK. Am bastier, aka the Executioner (what a cool name), resembles a sharks tooth and produces vertically from the Cuillin Ridge.
I would recommend this route for those who are experienced scramblers who are confident in their abilities and have all the proper gear. Climbing with a partner, in the right conditions and starting as early as possible would also be heavily advised.
Key Hike Info
Hike Type: Loop
Hike Distance: 15km
Elevation Gain: 1,300 m
Hike Duration: 6-9 hours
Technical Aspects: Highly technical with challenging scrambling sections and significant exposure
Mu
Start Point & Parking: A863 outside Sligachan
6. Sgùrr na Banachdich
For those looking to experience the Cuillin without tackling the most technical routes, Sgùrr na Banachdich is a fantastic choice.
Offering a challenging yet rewarding climb, it provides stunning panoramic views of Skye’s rugged landscape and is a great choice for sunset.
Although it doesn’t have the extreme difficulty and technical nature of some neighbouring peaks, the ascent still involves plenty of steep scrambling up and down loose scree, so shouldn’t be taken lightly.
Key Hike Info
Hike Type: Out and Back
Distance: Approximately 8 km
Elevation Gain: 965m
Estimated Time: 4-7 hours
Technical Aspects: Steep and hideous scree slopes
For all the information on this hike, including route maps, GPX files and where to park check out my dedicated blog post below
7. Sgùrr a Mhadaidh and Sgùrr a Ghreadaidh
Rising like jagged teeth from the heart of the Cuillin Ridge, Sgùrr a Mhadaidh and Sgùrr a Ghreadaidh offer an exhilarating challenge for hikers and scramblers seeking to experience the untamed beauty of the Isle of Skye.
The route combines steep ascents, scrambling, and impressive views of the Isle of Skye. The walk in is very straight forward, you’ll then take on a steep scree gully, before some aspects of non-exposed scrambling either side of An Dorus.
For hikers with a good head for heights and a sense of adventure, these peaks provide a memorable day in the mountains.
Key Hike Info
Hike Type: Out and Back
Distance: 10km
Duration: 5-8 hours
Elevation Gain: 1,060m
Technical aspects: Elements of steep and exposed scrambling
For all the information on this hike, including route maps, GPX files and where to park check out my dedicated blog post below
8. Sgùrr a Mhadaidh, Sgùrr a Ghreadaidh, and Sgùrr na Banachdich
You can also combine the Sgùrr a Mhadaidh and Sgùrr a Ghreadaidh with Sgùrr na Banachdich for one insane day in the mountains.
However to reach Sgùrr na Banachdich it involves traversing the the narrowest section of ridge in the British Isles. This section is for the more experienced scramblers and only should only be done in near perfect conditions.
Key Hike Info
Hike Type: Loop
Distance: 11km
Duration: 7-10 hours
Elevation Gain: 1,250m
Terrain: Steep, rugged, and rocky with lots of scree
Technical aspects: Elements of steep and exposed scrambling
For all the information on this hike, including route maps, GPX files and where to park check out my dedicated blog post below
9. Sgùrr Alasdair
One of the only hikes I haven’t actually done on this list (Hence the lack of photos).
Sgùrr Alasdair is the crown jewel of the Cuillin Ridge— it’s the highest peak on Skye, and the highest summit on any UK island. Despite its relatively small summit area, the views from the top are absolutely stunning, offering a unique panorama that captures the raw beauty of the island’s landscape.
The journey to get there is a serious challenge. You'll need to embark on an arduous trek, trudging up a the great stone shoot, which is a slope blanketed with loose scree that demands both physical effort and mental determination.
Key Hike Info
Hike Type: Out and Back
Hike Difficulty: Technical
Hike Distance: 10 km
Elevation Gain: 1,100 m
Hike Duration: 6-9 hours
Technical Aspects: Scrambling on steep loose scree and exposed, narrow ridges
Start Point & Parking: Glen Brittle Memorial Hut
10. Sgùrr nan Gillean
Sgùrr nan Gillean is reserved for the truly experienced. However reaching the summit is a rewarding experience, with breathtaking views over the Cuillins, Skye and the west coast of Scotland
This technical route challenges you with exposed ridges and difficult scrambling that test both endurance and skill. I would recommend this climb only if you’re exceptionally well-prepared, both physically and with the right gear.
Key Hike Info
Hike Type: Out and Back
Hike Distance: 12 km
Elevation Gain: 1,020 m
Hike Duration: 6-10 hours
Technical Aspects: exposed ridges and demanding scrambling
Start Point & Parking: Sligachan mountain rescue
11. Cuillin Northen 3 Munros
An incredible day on the Cuillin ridge which summit three munros: Sgùrr nan Gillean, Am Bastier and Bruach na Frìthe
This involves aspects of rock climbing so ropes, helmets, and the necessary experience and knowledge (or a guide) is essential.
There is an extremely technical, difficult, and exposed climb up/down a chimney. I was very uncomfortable climbing it and temporarily froze up when I reached the pinnacles.
Key Hike Info
Hike Type: Loop
Hike Distance: 17 km
Elevation Gain: 1,800 m
Hike Duration: 8-14 hours
Technical Aspects: Sections of climbing alongside exposed ridges and demanding scrambling
Start Point & Parking: Sligachan mountain rescue
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Know and plan the route: Use proper hiking app ( I use and recommend OS Maps) and have the route downloaded
Check the Weather: Always check the weather forecast for the specific peaks and mountain ranges you are planning on hiking. I use MWIS and Met Office
Start Early: Give yourself plenty of daylight to complete the hike.
Know Your Limits: This hike requires a good level of fitness and a head for heights.
Group Up: If possible, hike with others or consider hiring a local guide for extra safety
Wear and carry the correct kit and equipment: see below
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Base layers
Smartwool Active hoodie - My go for spring, summer, and autumn hiking.
Smartwool Intraknit Thermal Merino Base Layer 1/4 Zip - My choice in winter and colder weather.
Mid Layers
Columbia Triple Canyon Hooded Fleece Jacket- Lightweight, warm, comfy, and stretchy. Everything you need from a mid-layer. It also has elasticated thumb loops, a close-fitting hood, and three zip pockets.
Rab Men's Microlight Alpine Down Jacket - Essential for the colder months, wildcamping, and when you are soaking in the views up on the summit.
Outer shell
Columbia Ampli-Dry III Jacket - Waterproof, lightweight, functional, and packs down small. It also has breathable stretch shell fabric with underarm zipped ventilation.
Lower Half
Montane Tenacity Hiking Pants - Lightweight, comfortable, stretchy water resistant softshell trousers
Footwear
Columbia Montrail Trinity Ag II - The comfiest summer hiking and trail running shoes I have ever worn.
Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2 GTX - My go to for the wetter months of the year
Columbia Men's Facet 75 Equinox – My go to in Winter, incredibly comfortable, waterproof and warm
Socks
Backpacks
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The correct kit and equipment are essential when hiking in Scotland.
Sturdy hiking boots with good grip
Waterproof jacket and overtrousers
A layering system (wear/carry a minimum of 3 top half layers, with a 4th in winter)
GPS device with the route downloaded (or Map and compass)
Power bank and charging cable
Headtorch + First aid kit
Plenty of fluids and high-energy snacks
Gloves and a hat for cooler conditions
If it’s winter then crampons, micro spikes, and an ice axe(s) are essential alongside extra clothing. I’d also recommend walking poles and ski goggles.
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Portree Campsite: Situated 1 mile north of Portree town center, this campsite offers 40 hard-standing pitches with electric hook-ups for motorhomes or caravans and 50 tent pitches. Amenities include showers, toilets, laundry facilities, and Wi-Fi.
Skye Camping & Caravanning Club Site: Set on the shores of Loch Greshornish, this site provides 105 pitches, including hard standings for caravans and motorhomes, many with beautiful loch views.
Camping Skye Opened in June 2018, this campsite is nestled in a peaceful woodland setting near Broadford village. It offers 26 hard-standing motorhome/caravan pitches with electric hook-ups and individual awning/picnic areas. Heated washrooms and a small laundry/drying room are available.
Glenbrittle Campsite: Located on the shores of Loch Brittle at the foot of the Cuillin mountains, this campsite boasts over 35 electric hook-ups and approximately 120 tent pitches. Amenities include a café/shop serving drinks and treats, as well as essentials like fresh bread, groceries, and camping supplies.
Kinloch Campsite: A small, family-run site on the shores of Loch Dunvegan, offering grass and hard-standing pitches. The village of Dunvegan is a short walk away, providing access to pubs, shops, and cafes.
Glenbrittle Youth Hostel: Set in rugged scenery at the foot of the Cuillin Ridge, this homely hostel has a long tradition as a base for walkers and climbers, offering a mix of accommodation from private rooms to unisex/mixed dorms, all with USB charging points and individual bed lights.
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Whether you're looking for a fine dining experience, a cosy café, or fresh seafood by the water, Skye has a fantastic selection of restaurants, cafés, and bistros. Here are some of my suggestions of cheap eats and cafes to eat on the Isle of Skye
Cafés
Café Cùil: Located on the way to Glenbrittle, this café offers a unique take on a Scottish brunch menu in a relaxed atmosphere.
The Coffee Bothy: Located in Broadford this well priced, café serves heart breakfasts mega sandwiches alongside homemade cakes, and soups
Birch Cafe: A modern café situated in Portree which serves speciality coffee artisanal brews, plus sandwiches & muffins
Community Cafe: A not for profit Café located in Dunvegan which offers stunning views, a comfortable environment, and good quality food and drink.
Caora Dhubh Coffee Company: Located in Carbost, this coffee shop and roaster focuses offers speciality coffee which focuses on ethical trading, sustainability. and involvement with the local community.
Columba 1400: Located in Staffin, this social enterprise café offers home-made soup, toasties, home baking, fragrant coffee and a choice of substantial lunches. Every single penny spent here is invested back into Columba 1400 to help young people in the community
Pubs and Restaurants
Pizza In the Skye: Offbeat institution dispensing wood-fired pizza from a simple roadside food truck.
Gasta Porth Righ: A well priced pizzeria situated just outside Portree
The Oyster Shed: A seafood kitchen and farm shop which s offering fantastic and well priced local seafood in a rustic setting.
The Old School Restaurant: This is a former schoolhouse turned family-run traditional Scottish restaurant, which Specialises in locally sourced meat, seafood, and desserts.
Looking for an adventure guide?
I can wholeheartedly recommend my good friend and Matt Waterston who runs MW guiding.
He has accompanied me and guided me on many of my Scottish Adventures including hiking the Cuillin Ridge.
Established in 2021, MW Guiding provides bespoke guided adventures in Scotland. Based near Arisaig, on the beautifully scenic Road to the Isles, MW guiding is perfectly positioned to show you the best of the west.
A qualified mountain leader, Kayak instructor and mountain bike guide he can offer kayaking trips, guided hill walks and expertly led mountain bike trips, from half days for those just wanting a taster of an activity, all the way up to week-long epic adventures.
For an idea what type of adventures offers as well as some of his past trips, check out his website below
the best way to travel around Scotland
Due to the vastness and expansive road network of the Highlands, having a vehicle is essential to travelling around Scotland.
Although Scotland has a reliable public transport system that connects major towns and attractions, they aren’t the most frequent, take a lot longer than driving, and do not reach remote locations.
By having a vehicle it allows you freedom to visit the locations you want, whenever you want, in the shortest time possible. Meaning you can take advantage of the many incredible locations located around the Scottish highlands, alongside being able to visit around sunrise and sunset.
Travelling the Scottish Highlands by car
If you are visiting the highlands for longer than 5 days I would recommend getting a campervan (outlined below). However If you wanted to save on costs the the best option would be a car rental and then to camp or wildcamp.
I would recommend booking your car rental through discovercars.com. They are based in Edinburgh and they search both international and local operators for the best deal.
Scotland’s freedom to roam rules are some of the most progressive in the world, thanks to the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003, which gives the public extensive rights to access most land and inland water for recreational purposes.
Wild camping is legal in Scotland on most unenclosed land, Meaning you can pitch your tent in remote areas like moorlands, forests, hillsides, and coastal regions for free provided it’s done responsibly, you are respectful, and leave no trace.
Scotland’s wild camping freedom is a privilege, and maintaining it depends on everyone playing their part. It’s one of the things that makes exploring the Highlands, islands, and remote glens so magical.
Travelling by campervan
In my opinion the best way to travel around Scotland is by would be in a motorhome or campervan.
Scotland is incredibly van friendly and it will allow for the greatest flexibility alongside being cheaper and easier than booking accommodation. Every time I have been Scotland I have travelled in a campervan. Alongside using my own VW T6 I have also used Roadsurfer who are absolutely faultless.
They have a large deport located in Edinburgh (Alongside London, Bristol and Manchester), offer unlimited mileage and have of different vehicles to choose from.
When renting a campervan or motorhome, I would look to get one which is relatively compact. Scotland has some narrow single track roads, so the smaller the vehicle the easier and more comfortable it will be to drive.
On the two occasions I have travelled Scotland in a Roadsurfer vehicle, I have rented a Couple Cottage.
It was incredibly spacious, slept two people, and was a reasonable size, meaning it wasn’t a hassle to drive and I could actually park it in normal sized space. It also came with the following
Cruise control, Reversing Camera, Bluetooth, and Apple and Android CarPlay
Kitchen area with a sink, two stove gas hobs, fridge, oven, and lots of storage
Wet room with hot water shower, sink and toilet
Air conditioning & off grid stationary heating (powered gas or electricity)
Two up front swivel seats
Spacious living/dining room area with two fixed seats and big table
Large fixed double bed (L 1,92 m x W 1,42 m)
Midge nets and black out blinds for all windows
Awning, camping chairs, table, and kitchen utility box.
230 v Power connection and supply-battery
Pick up in Edinburgh was incredibly easy, the depot is located close to the airport and is short bus ride from the city centre. They even have a help yourself selection of items (including food and kitchen equipment) which other users have left and you can take with you.
You can get a 10 % discount off your Roadsurfer booking if you use the code: KNIGHT10 (Valid until 31/12/2025)
I do not get any commission on this booking, I just genuinely rate and recommend their vans.
Final thoughts and suggestions
This complete guide is designed to help you choose a hike that matches your skill level and adventure spirit on the Isle of Skye. Whether you're after a casual walk or a demanding technical climb, I would recommend thorough preparation, checking the weather, and starting early to make the most of your experience.
The most accessible munro on the Cuillin Ridge: Bruach na Frìthe
Best day hike on the Cuillin Ridge: Sgùrr a Mhadaidh, Sgùrr a Ghreadaidh, Sgùrr na Banachdich
The most underrated hike: Bla Bheinn
Hardest Hike: Cuillin Northern 3
I want reiterate and the dangers of undertaking these hikes without the correct level of experience, skill, and equipment. Only undertake the very hard hikes if you have the competency (don’t mistake this for confidence) and correct equipment to do so.
A good head for heights
lots of experience on grade 3 scrambles
stable and grippy footwear
Don’t undertake these hikes alone
Carry a helmet and a emergency SOS device for extra safety.
Start as early as you can
Make sure weather forecast is clear, calm, and dry.
Being up on the Cuillin ridge in high winds, rain, and poor visibility is a recipe for disaster.
If your unsure, hire a guide or give it a miss. The mountains will always be there and its unpaid volunteers which have to rescue you if something does go wrong.
So there we have it, the hardest hikes on the Isle of Skye. Did you find the blog useful? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below.
If you did find the blog helpful, I’d appreciate you giving it a share or giving me a follow on social media, every bit of support goes a long way.
For more Scottish hiking inspiration check out my other guides below;
Isle of Skye blogs
Glencoe Blogs
Alternatively check out my hiking related guides;
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