Cuillin Ridge Traverse
Isle of Skye, Scotland
2 Days
From £950
Without a doubt, the traverse of the Cuillin Ridge on the Isle of Skye is the finest and most challenging mountaineering outing in the UK. It is the UK’s answer to the Alps with 22 peaks, 11 of which are major Munro summits, spread over 12 km of grade III scrambling and rock climbing up to Very Difficult/ Severe standard. I have many years of experience and successful traverses on the Cuillin Ridge. Get in touch to conquer the Cuillin!
Without a doubt, the traverse of the Cuillin Ridge on the Isle of Skye is the finest and most challenging mountaineering outing in the UK. It is the UK’s answer to the Alps with 22 peaks, 11 of which are major Munro summits, spread over 12 km of grade III scrambling and rock climbing up to Very Difficult/ Severe standard. I have many years of experience and successful traverses on the Cuillin Ridge. Get in touch to conquer the Cuillin!
NB: This itinerary is a sample of what we could do during the course. This is subject to change due to weather, conditions and group fitness. I will always make sure that you get the most out of your course no matter what the weather and conditions are.
Day 1
05:00 - Meet at the Glen Brittle Campsite car park
(I can also collect you from your accommodation and take you to the location)
We will shoulder our packs and walk into Gars-Bheinn, the official start point of the traverse. From here the fun begins as we cross over peak after peak scrambling and climbing our way over some of the most impressive terrain in the UK. The aim for that day will be to complete seven main summits including Sgurr Alasdair, the highest peak on the ridge, and the Inaccessible Pinnacle (Inn Pinn). We will then find a good spot to set up camp and watch the sun set.
Day 2
06:30 - Greet the dawn on top of the ridge after a, hopefully restful, night spent under the stars.
Today we will finish off the Northern Section of the ridge covering some complex and exciting terrain as we approach the finish line on Sgurr nan Gillean. There is so much to offer on this section and the continual interest and breathtaking views down to Loch Coruisk will take your mind off the fatigue in your legs. After a celebratory ascent of the west ridge of the final peak, and my favourite on the ridge, Sgurr nan Gillean we will stagger down to the car, happy in the knowledge that we have conquered the UKs finest mountaineering challenge!
18:00 Return to the car park and head home for a well deserved rest!
Day 3
This day will allow us to choose the best weather and is not a day out. If the weather has been too bad to bivi out on the ridge then we will complete individual sections of the ridge and get as much done as possible.
If you have any questions about this course, just get in touch!
The Cuillin Ridge is a significant challenge, whether you’re aiming for a full traverse or tackling sections of the ridge. I strongly recommend having prior scrambling experience before joining this course to ensure you get the most out of it.
A good level of fitness will greatly enhance your chances of success and make the experience more enjoyable and rewarding. If you’d like guidance on how to prepare, don’t hesitate to get in touch—I can share plenty of simple and effective tips for getting physically ready for the Cuillin Ridge.
If you don’t yet have scrambling experience, I can help you build the skills you need. Consider starting with my Highland Scrambling Adventure course or Private Guiding. I’m also happy to suggest local routes near you that can help you prepare.
Feel free to reach out to discuss your experience and goals—I’m always here to help guide you to the best course for your needs!
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Making sound decisions on the Cuillin Ridge
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Mastering movement over scrambling terrain on the Cuillin Ridge
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Understanding the scrambling grading system
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Developing hazard awareness specific to scrambling on the Cuillin Ridge
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Choosing and using essential scrambling equipment for the Cuillin Ridge
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Tying key knots for scrambling safety
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Ropework techniques for safe and efficient scrambling on the Cuillin Ridge
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Essential equipment for overnight stays on the Cuillin Ridge
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Efficient campcraft and bivi techniques
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Mastering the intricacies of navigation on the Cuillin Ridge
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Planning and preparing for challenging days on the Cuillin Ridge
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Interpreting mountain weather forecasts
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Assessing real-time mountain conditions on the Cuillin Ridge
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Understanding and executing emergency procedures on the Cuillin Ridge
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Included:
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Exceptional instruction and coaching
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Access to Alex’s knowledge and advice before and after the course
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Local transport to and from your accommodation in Aviemore
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Ropes and climbing hardware
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Helmet and harness
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Guidebooks
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Maps and compass
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Emergency equipment
Not Included:
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Personal clothing and scrambling shoes
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Sleeping kit for overnight bivi
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Accommodation
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Food and snacks (freeze dried meals recommended)
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