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.

Skye’s Cuillin Ridge Traverse – Quick Facts

Trail name: Cuillin Ridge Traverse
Location: Isle of Skye, Scotland
Total distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles (ridge crest)
Typical duration: 1–2 days for the full traverse; shorter sections possible
Start / Finish: Commonly Glen Brittle to Sligachan
Trail type: Alpine-style ridge traverse/scramble
Difficulty: Very challenging; sustained scrambling and exposed sections, suitable for experienced walkers and scramblers
Terrain: Knife-edge ridges, rock pinnacles, steep drops, exposed crest lines
Navigation: Guidebook with Harvey maps, photo topos, and route descriptions essential
Best season: Late spring to early autumn (summer recommended for safer conditions)
Accommodation: Nearby hostels, bunkhouses, and campsites in Glen Brittle or Sligachan; some overnight options along the ridge for bivvying

Author Highlight

“Although a huge challenge, it is achievable by many climbers and here lies much of its appeal. The climbing may be long, but it is never too hard or sustained. With preparation and practice, a helping of luck, a good level of fitness and the right mental attitude, the ridge is within the grasp of many climbers. For many, it is a dream route, but with a little effort (well, quite a lot, actually) it is one that can become a reality.”

- Adrian Trendall, Skye local, guide and author of Skye's Cuillin Ridge 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

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

February 2026

Descent from Clash Glas

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