Outdoor Adventures in the Highlands for all
The Cuillin Ridge Traverse is the UK’s most extreme mountaineering challenge taking place over 3 days … 11km, 11 Munros and 16 other summits.
£900 For 1 & £960 For Two
Cuillin Ridge Traverse
| Duration | 1/2/3 days |
| Group Size | 1-2 |
| Difficulty | Extremely challenging |
| Season Of The Year | Summer |
| Minimum Age | 12 |
| Meeting Place | Glen Brittle Campsite Car Park 08:00 |
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Interested In A Private Course Or If You Have Any Questions? Drop Us An Enquiry Below.
Cuillin Ridge Traverse Course Information
Cuillin Ridge Traverse
A guided traverse of the Cuillin Ridge on the Scottish Isle of Skye is considered one of the greatest mountaineering challenges in the UK. The route spans the length of the ridge, a rocky and rugged mountain range with some of the most technically challenging terrain in Scotland. The traverse offers a true wilderness experience, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape throughout the journey.
The traverse typically takes two – three days to complete, with overnight stays wild camping on the ridge. Experienced and qualified guides who are members of AMI will lead the way, providing expert knowledge and advice on safely navigating the terrain, including the use of ropes and harnesses where necessary.
During the traverse, you’ll tackle steep climbs and exposed ridges, including the infamous Inaccessible Pinnacle, the only Munro that requires technical rock climbing skills to reach the summit. Along the way, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the sea, creating unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.
While a guided traverse of the Cuillin Ridge is a challenging and demanding experience, it is also incredibly rewarding, offering a true test of physical and mental endurance in one of Scotland’s most beautiful and remote locations.
Cuillin Ridge Traverse Itinerary
Day 1: Meet your guide and fellow climbers in the morning at Glen Brittle Campsite. After a quick briefing and gear check, you’ll set off for the start of the traverse, tackling the first section of the route. The day’s challenge includes climbing Sgurr nan Eag, Sgurr Dubh Mor, and Sgurr Alasdair, three of the highest peaks on the ridge. The terrain is rocky and challenging, with some exposed ridges and steep climbs. You’ll stop for lunch and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The day’s hike will take around 8-10 hours, and you’ll spend the night ion the ridge and hopefully wake up to glorious sunshine and inversions (no guarantee it is Scotland after all!).
Day 2: After a hearty breakfast, you’ll set off for the second day of the traverse. The route today includes tackling the infamous Inaccessible Pinnacle, the only Munro that requires technical rock climbing skills to reach the summit. You’ll be roped up and guided by your expert guide as you navigate the tricky terrain. After reaching the summit, you’ll continue along the ridge, climbing several more peaks, including Sgurr Mhic Choinnich and Sgurr na Banachdich. You’ll stop for lunch and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The day’s hike will take around 8-10 hours, and you’ll spend the night on the ridge again.
Day 3: On the final day of the traverse, you’ll tackle the last few peaks on the ridge, including Sgurr a’Ghreadaidh and Sgurr a’Mhadaidh. The terrain is rocky and challenging, with some steep scrambles and exposed ridges. You’ll stop for lunch and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The traverse ends at the foot of Sgurr na h-Uamha, where you’ll descend down the scree slope to Glen Brittle. The day’s hike will take around 8-10 hours. Once back at Glen Brittle, you’ll say goodbye to your guide and fellow climbers, reflecting on an unforgettable adventure on one of Scotland’s most challenging and beautiful mountain ranges.
Overall, a three-day guided traverse of the Cuillin Ridge is a challenging but rewarding experience that will test your physical and mental endurance while allowing you to experience the stunning beauty of the Scottish Highlands. With expert guidance and support, you’ll safely navigate the technical terrain and create memories that will last a lifetime.
We are proud to recommend local accommodation options within the central Highlands area for people either pre or post when you are up for your Cuillin Ridge Traverse:
Aviemore:
Youth Hostel A budget friendly option for people.
Coylumbridge Hotel Aviemroe – good for groups and families alike.
Premier Inn – always a good shout.
Rothiemurchus Campsite – situated in the stunning forest, this is a beautiful budget friendly option.
Glenmore Campsite – situated at Scotland’s highest beach, Loch Morlich has phenomenal views across to Cairngorm Mountain.
Newtonmore & Surrounding Areas:
https://www.wherestagsroar.co.uk/ award winning accommodation in the Highlands – perfect to stay at while up on an outdoor adventure.
Invernahavon Caravan Park – a bit quieter than the others as it is a little further away from the hustle and bustle of Aviemore.
Dalraddy Holiday Park – a family and dog friendly campsite.
If you are an experienced mountaineer seeking a challenging climb in Scotland, getting guided along the Cuillin Ridge Traverse should be on your list. This epic route on the Isle of Skye is considered one of the finest mountaineering challenges in the UK, offering breathtaking views of the island’s rugged and dramatic landscapes.
While it is a thrilling and rewarding experience, it is not to be taken lightly and should only be attempted with an experienced guide. A guide will provide expert knowledge and advice on navigating the challenging terrain safely, including several steep drops and exposed sections, as well as offering tips on mountaineering techniques and equipment.
A guide will also ensure that you have the appropriate gear for the climb, including ropes, harnesses, and helmets, and will provide insights into the history and geology of the area, enriching your experience of the Cuillin Ridge.
Overall, getting guided along the Cuillin Ridge Traverse is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for experienced mountaineers, offering breathtaking scenery and the chance to test your skills in a spectacular and challenging environment while keeping you safe.
We pride ourselves on providing as much kit as possible for you. However, the list below is what we recommend you should bring to your Cuillin Traverse Guided Ascent:
- Travel insurance. (We are insured for all our trips, but we recommend everyone has their own travel insurance as well.)
- Transportation to the venue. (We may be able to help with this though – if you need transportation please drop us an enquiry and we can see what we can do to help.)
TECHNICAL KIT (all of this can be provided or you can bring your own if you prefer)
- Harness
- Helmet
- 120cm Sling + Carabiner
- Belay Device + HMS Carabiner
- PERSONAL CLOTHING/KIT
- Walking boots or Approach Shoes
- Waterproof jacket
- Waterproof trousers
- Warm hat
- Gloves– minimum 2 pairs
- Spare warm layer
OTHER KIT
- Food and water – We’ll need the carrying capacity for 4 litres per person. You’ll need 2 lunches, Dinner and Breakfasts. Dehydrated food works best for weight.
- Rucksack – 35-40 litres- recommended.
- Rucksack liner/Drybags
- Sun screen, sun glasses
- Small Personal First Aid Kit
- Head Torch
For the Bivvy
- Sleeping Bag
- Sleeping Mat
- Waterproof Bivvy Bag
- Stove & gas (for dinner – our you can be canny and precook food meaning you don’t need to take a stove and gas)
- Mug
- Spoon
- Midge Net (May onwards)
Here at Highland Outdoor Adventures, we pride ourselves on providing as much as we can but you are welcome to bring your own equipment if you do prefer. The list below is what we provide you with on the day.
- All instruction.
- All first aid and safety equipment.
- Photographs of the day provided for you at no extra cost! If the weather is good we will have a DSLR professional camera so we can take photos and videos of your adventure and you can look back at the day for years to come. If the weather is less favourable we will bring a GoPro (as it is waterproof) so we will still be able to take photos for you.
- Fully certified instructors who are members of AMI so you can rest assured they are recognised as amongst the best in the world.
- Harness.
- Helmets.
- Ropes.
- All technical equipment
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Cuillin Ridge Guided Traverse Meeting Place
- Scrambling on the Isle of Skye, Scotland
Please look out for the van branded with our logo’s on all sides. We will always get there early and try to park up prominently for you to see us.
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