Skye's Cuillin Ridge Traverse

Experience one of the most iconic and technically demanding mountain traverses in the British Isles with Skye’s Cuillin Ridge Traverse, a continuous 12km alpine-style crest along the heart of the Black Cuillin on the Isle of Skye. This legendary ridge combines sustained scrambling, exposed knife-edge crests, dramatic rock pinnacles, and unforgettable views over Loch Coruisk, Loch Scavaig and the surrounding rugged Skye landscape.

This comprehensive two-volume Cicerone guidebook equips motivated scramblers and experienced walkers with the skills, strategy, and confidence to plan and complete the technical traverse, typically in 1–2 days depending on pace and conditions. The first volume covers preparation, training, gear, weather, navigation, logistics, and ten classic Cuillin scrambles for practice, while the second lightweight volume carries detailed Harvey mapping, numbered photo topos, and in-depth route descriptions for the ridge itself.

• Comprehensive planning and logistics guidance is provided, including training notes, recommended kit lists, weather and safety advice to help you approach the Cuillin Ridge with confidence
• Step-by-step route description for the full 12km Cuillin Ridge Traverse across ten sections, supported by Harvey mapping and photo topos for complex terrain navigation
• Ten classic Cuillin scrambles are detailed as practice routes to build skills and familiarity with the ridge terrain before attempting the main traverse
• Easier climbing alternatives (Cuillin Ridge Light) provided for harder sections, offering options to reduce technical difficulty where needed
• Guidance on tackling winter conditions, including escape routes, extends the book’s usefulness across seasons

Tackle Scotland’s ultimate scramble and crossing, from sharply exposed crest lines and technical moves to the jaw-dropping panoramas that make the Black Cuillin legendary. With expert advice, detailed mapping and dependable route descriptions in your pack, Skye’s Cuillin Ridge Traverse is the indispensable guide for scramblers and mountain walkers aiming to conquer one of the UK’s most dramatic ridge traverses.

Seasons

Most people visit the Cuillin Ridge in summer. Regardless of season, wet, windy weather and bad visibility can make the Ridge difficult and dangerous. This guide also covers the traverse in winter, which can offer excellent climbing in good snow conditions.

Centres

The Cuilllin Ridge is located in a triangle between Glen Brittle, Sligachan and Elgol. Nearby centres include the towns of Broadford and Portree.

Difficulty

Tough walking, abseiling, scrambling to grade 3 and rock climbing to Severe. Cuillin Ridge Light alternative bypasses reduce the climbing level to Moderate.

Must See

The ridge on the boat approach from Elgol; Thearlaich Dubh Gap; Inaccessible Pinnacle; King's Chimney; views across Loch Coruisk and Loch Scavaig; Naismith's Route to Bhasteir Tooth; Sligachan Hotel and Seumas' Bar to celebrate a successful traverse

CONTENTS

Location of practice routes

Map key

Overview map

INTRODUCTION

Preparation and training

Strategy and tactics

Gear

Navigation

Climbing, scrambling and ropework

Grades

Weather

Geology of the Black Cuillin

Logistics

Reasons for failure

Beyond the ridge

Using this guide

CLASSIC SCRAMBLES

Route 1 Round of Fionn Choire

Route 2 The Spur, Sgurr an Fheadain

Route 3 South South East Buttress, Sgurr na Stri

Route 4 Thuilm Ridge, Sgurr a’ Mhadaidh

Route 5 South Ridge, Sgurr Coir’ an Lochain

Route 6 The Dubh Ridge

Route 7 Round of Coire Lagan

Route 8 Pinnacle Ridge, Sgurr nan Gillean

Route 9 Clach Glas – Bla Bheinn Traverse

Route 10 Central South Buttress, An Caisteal

THE CUILLIN TRAVERSE IN WINTER

Route 11 The winter traverse

Appendix A Summary of classic scrambles

Appendix B Further reading, webcams and accommodation