A guidebook to the Isle of Skye’s Cuillin Ridge Traverse. This 2-volume set is a comprehensive guide to planning and completing this challenging and technical 12km scramble, typically done in 1-2 days. With a route that includes scrambling sections to Grade 3, technical climbs to Severe and a handful of abseils, a head for heights, technical skill and mental and physical stamina are needed.

Volume 1 contains planning and logistics information, training notes, recommended gear list and safety tips. Volume 2 focuses on the traverse itself, across 10 sections a step-by-step guide to traversing the ridge is given with full route description, Harvey mapping and photo topos. The two volumes are sold together.

• Harvey mapping and photo topos
• In-depth route description and advice for completing the traverse in winter
• Volume 2 is perfectly sized to carry with you during the traverse
• 10 classic Cuillin scrambles are also included that can be used as practice routes
• Easier climbing alternatives (Cuillin Ridge Light) are provided for the harder climbing sections

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

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

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