The Isle of Skye, the Isle of Skye… one of our greatest loves! We’ve spent countless days exploring its breathtaking trails, and every visit filled our hearts with joy. To inspire your own love for Skye, we’re sharing some of the island’s most spectacular hikes, discover the best walks on Isle of Skye!
In recent years, the Isle of Skye has become an increasingly popular destination, far busier than it was just a decade ago. The surge in visitors prompted local authorities to improve infrastructure, so you’ll now find spacious car parks at major landmarks like the Old Man of Storr and the Fairy Pools—something that wasn’t the case just a few years back.
Skye is undeniably home to some of Scotland’s most iconic landscapes, dominated by the jagged peaks of the Black Cuillin range, striking volcanic pinnacles, towering sea cliffs, and lush green glens adorned with pristine rivers and cascading waterfalls.
To truly experience the island’s beauty, we highly recommend staying for several days and exploring it on foot. There’s simply no better way to understand why Skye is so profoundly magical. A quick two-day drive, ticking off attractions from a list, will never capture the essence of this extraordinary place.
To help you plan your adventure, we’ve compiled a list of the island’s best hikes, featuring both renowned routes and hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
8 BEST HIKES ON ISLE OF SKYE
1.Old Man of Storr
2.Quiraing
3.Rubha Hunish
4.Camasunary Bay
5.Sgurr na Stri
6.Bla Bheinn (Blaven)
7.Bruach na Frithe
8.Ben Tianavaig
1 OLD MAN OF STORR
Distance: 3.8km with optional extension
Level of difficulty: easy/moderate
Time: 1.5 – 2 hours
Facilities: New 140-vehicle car park (paid), toilets, waste disposal, bike rack.
The Old Man of Storr (Gaelic: Bodach an Stòr) is a striking 55-meter-high pinnacle of basalt rock—one of the last remnants of a 2,800-million-year-old volcanic plug.
As the most iconic rock formation on the Isle of Skye, the Old Man draws a steady stream of visitors each day.
The main trail provides the shortest and most direct route to the pinnacle, allowing for a brief exploration of the area—a visit we highly recommend, regardless of which route you choose. For experienced hikers, the ascent from the car park to the base of Storr is a straightforward walk, typically taking no more than 1.5 to 2 hours round trip.
For those who prefer to venture off the beaten path, alternative trails offer opportunities to explore further. However, we encourage all visitors to be mindful of their impact—please stick to well-defined paths rather than creating new ones to help preserve this extraordinary landscape.
The Storr is part of a conservation initiative led by the Skye Iconic Sites Partnership and the Outdoor Access Trust for Scotland. To combat erosion and minimize environmental degradation, biodegradable GeoJute netting has been introduced to encourage vegetation regrowth and protect the fragile terrain.
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2 QUIRAING
Distance: 7km
Level of difficulty: easy/moderate
Time: 2-3 hours
Facilities: newly constructed spacious car park which still fills up quickly, no other facilities.
This is one of our favorite walks on the Isle of Skye, thanks to its many route variations and the chance to experience one of the most dynamic landscapes in the world. Here, towering pinnacles rise from a vast expanse of shifting terrain—land that is still slowly slipping toward the sea and will continue its journey over thousands of years.
If you’re interested in exploring more walks in the Quiraing, check out our e-book for detailed guides.
In this article, we’ll focus on the most popular circular hiking route.
The Route
The trail begins at the car park and initially follows the foot of the cliffs, weaving through remarkable rock formations before leading you up the escarpment on the return leg, offering breathtaking views from above. It’s a truly magical experience.
Start by following the well-trodden path. The first section is a pleasant walk, with only one tricky part: crossing a small stream. Be cautious here, as the rocks can be slippery, even in dry weather.
As you progress, you’ll soon spot The Prison, a dramatic rock formation on your right, visible almost from the start of the hike. Feel free to explore it before continuing.
The path gradually becomes steeper, leading to a scree (loose gravel) section. High above, you’ll now see The Needle, a strikingly tall basalt pinnacle. While this route doesn’t climb directly to it, you’ll continue straight ahead until reaching a wire fence with a stile to cross.
From here, the trail ascends into a shallow valley, revealing additional rock formations. Though smaller and less imposing than the giants you’ve just passed, they are still impressive.
Continue until you reach a fork in the path. The right-hand trail descends toward Loch Hasco, while the left-hand trail climbs gently over a saddle and passes through a drystone wall. Take the left path, which leads into a hidden glen filled with smaller pinnacles.
The path then climbs steeply and becomes more eroded. After crossing another stile, you’ll soon reach the ridge. Turn left and follow the escarpment’s edge—taking extra care, especially in low clouds or misty conditions.
As you gain elevation, the views become increasingly spectacular. Eventually, you’ll catch your first glimpse of The Table, a grassy plateau encircled by jagged pinnacles. Continue along the cliff edge to the highest point, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas over the landslips below, out to Staffin Bay, and even as far as the Torridon Mountains in the distance.
The descent follows a well-defined path leading to a gate in a fence. The final section before rejoining the main trail is steep, boggy, and at times may require the use of your hands for stability. Thankfully, it’s a short stretch.
Note: If you only complete the lower section of this loop as an out-and-back route, it remains an easy-grade walk. However, the full circuit is classified as moderate due to the steeper and more rugged terrain.
3 RUBHA HUNISH
Distance: 8.5km
Level of difficulty: easy/moderate
Time: 4-5 hours
Facilities: Very small car park
Rubha Hunish marks the northernmost point of the Isle of Skye. Many visitors hike only as far as the Lookout Bothy at the cliff edge—a fantastic destination in itself—but to truly reach Skye’s northern tip, you’ll need to descend the dramatic cliffs.
If you opt for the bothy alone, the walk is relatively straightforward, though some boggy sections can make for a soggy trek. However, the descent to the headland is more challenging due to the eroded path, requiring extra caution. Because of this, we classify the hike as moderate.
That said, the effort is well worth it. The sea stacks along the shores of Rubha Hunish are completely hidden from above—descending is the only way to witness their rugged beauty.
Another reason to make the descent? Wildlife. From the headland, you’ll have a much better chance of spotting seabirds, otters, and even whales—sightings that are far more difficult from the cliffs above. We always recommend bringing binoculars to make the most of this incredible vantage point.
The Route
Whether you’re walking just to the bothy or continuing down to the crescent-shaped headland, the trail is easy to navigate.
From the car park, cross the cattle grid and take the well-defined path on your left, following the fence. Soon, the path veers right into open moorland, offering views of Duntulm Castle, the abandoned village of Erisco, and a small bay famous for dinosaur footprints. Continue along the base of a small hill until you reach a kissing gate near the cliff edge. Pass through and follow the clear path into the gap between two hills—Meall Tuath and Meall Deas.
At the gap, turn right to ascend Meall Tuath for a short detour to the Lookout Bothy. The steep and rugged path initially climbs past the top of a gully, offering stunning views down onto the Rubha Hunish headland. Soon, you’ll spot the bothy—a small white cube—just beyond a bench.
This former coastguard lookout once monitored the Little Minch, a vital shipping channel, around the clock. Today, it serves as a well-maintained shelter for hikers and birdwatchers, thanks to volunteers from the Mountain Bothy Association.
Please pack out all waste and, if possible, leave the bothy and surrounding area better than you found it by collecting any litter left behind.
If the weather allows, take time to appreciate the dramatic cliffs and breathtaking views across the sea to the Isle of Harris.
The Descent to the Headland
To continue to Rubha Hunish, retrace your steps to the gap where the fences meet. Pass through the metal walker’s gate near the cliff edge and begin the steep descent. The path may seem intimidating at first, but for a confident walker, the scramble down is manageable. Before long, you’ll be off the rocks and onto a well-defined trail below the cliffs.
Explore the headland, paying attention to its fascinating basalt columns, sea stacks, and geos (narrow inlets). There’s something truly magical about standing at this windswept land’s end—often with no one else around.
The Return Route
Once you’ve soaked in the beauty of Rubha Hunish, retrace your steps to climb back up to the gap. From here, you have two options:
- Return directly via the same trail to the car park.
- Make it a circular route by turning right after crossing the gate and following the path uphill onto Meall Deas.
If you choose the circular route, be aware that this path is less traveled and can be quite wet, even in summer.
Continue until you reach a gate. The trail becomes faint and damp as it nears the shore. To your right, you’ll see Tulm Island, while the ruins of Duntulm Castle come into clearer view. This stretch is an excellent spot for otters, so walk slowly and quietly, keeping your eyes peeled.
Soon, you’ll reach a stone wall—follow it to the left and uphill until you reach another gate. Cross through, then continue until you reach yet another gate on your right. From here, follow the track past houses until you reach the main road, where a left turn will take you back to the starting point.
4 CAMASUNARY BAY
Distance: 9.5km
Level of difficulty: moderate
Time: 3 hours
Facilities: dedicated car park located by the single track between Broadford and Elgol (capacity circa 15 cars)
Camasunary Bay is a secluded and breathtakingly beautiful bay, framed by the Black Cuillin range in the background. Accessible only on foot, it offers a perfect escape from the crowds.
The beach consists mostly of pebbles, with only some sand visible at high tide, and a wider shoreline reveals as the tide recedes. Approaching from Kilmarie, hikers are treated to a bird’s-eye view of the bay, with the towering Cuillin peaks creating a dramatic and unforgettable backdrop.
The Route
From the car park, cross the road and head for the kissing gate to the left of the wide metal gate. A green signpost marks the way. The path is a well-maintained gravel track, undulating gently as it crosses several small streams. It’s easy to follow and well-defined.
After about 30 minutes of walking, you’ll reach another kissing gate. Here, the trail narrows and becomes rougher underfoot, with scattered loose stones. As you pass a small cairn (a pile of rocks), the gradient eases, and slowly, the Cuillin Ridge begins to unfold before you—you’ve reached Am Mam, the highest point of the walk.
As the trail curves right, you’ll get your first proper look at Camasunary Bay, a stunning sight as you begin the descent. The mighty Bla Bheinn (Blaven) dominates the view ahead, with the jagged peaks of the Black Cuillins, including Sgùrr nan Gillean, just beyond. Further down, you’ll also spot Loch na Creitheach, a small freshwater loch nestled within the landscape.
The path then makes a sharp 180-degree turn, zigzagging down the hillside before reaching a bridge made from old metal road barriers, which leads directly to the beach.
Exploring Camasunary
The spacious bay features a lush grassy meadow and two white houses. The nearer house is privately owned, while the smaller, more distant one is the old bothy, now permanently closed to the public. A new bothy has been built at the far end of the beach.
The Bothy Experience
A bothy is a simple, free shelter maintained for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts by the Mountain Bothies Association. The Camasunary Bothy is basic but welcoming, with two open fireplaces—ideal for drying wet gear or enjoying a break on a stormy day.
If you come across driftwood, feel free to bring some inside to dry for future visitors. And, as always, leave the bothy as you found it, taking all litter with you to help preserve this remote and special place.
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Featured hikes on Isle of Skye: Blaven, Bruach na Fritche
5 SGURR NA STRI (APPROACH FROM SLIGACHAN)
Distance: 23.5km
Level of difficulty: difficult, long walk with some tricky navigation near the top
Time: 7-8 hours
Facilities: spacious car park near Sligachan hotel
Sgùrr na Strì may be small in height, but its views are nothing short of legendary—much like the iconic Ben A’an in the Trossachs.
Standing at 494 meters above sea level, it doesn’t qualify as a Munro, yet it sits proudly among these towering peaks, offering some of the finest vistas on Skye. What truly makes Sgùrr na Strì famous, however, is its breathtaking, bird’s-eye view of Loch Coruisk, one of the island’s most beloved and dramatic lochs.
The Route
While the hike to Sgùrr na Strì isn’t technically challenging, it is long and demanding. Be sure to bring plenty of food and water, as the journey often takes longer than expected—especially if you like to pause and soak in the scenery.
Starting Point: Sligachan
From the car park, walk toward the old Sligachan Bridge, but instead of crossing it, turn left through the gate. This leads to the statue of Collie and Mackenzie, two pioneers of Cuillin exploration.
The first section of the route can be a little confusing. Stay on the left-hand path (signposted to Loch Coruisk), which runs alongside a fence. After about 200 meters, you’ll arrive at a gate on your left—ignore it and continue straight. The Sligachan River should now be on your right.
The hike follows the breathtaking Glen Sligachan, a wild and remote valley framed by two striking peaks—Sgùrr nan Gillean (one of the finest Black Cuillin summits) on your right and Marsco (one of the most beautiful Red Cuillin peaks) on your left. It’s an awe-inspiring start!
Through Glen Sligachan to the Ascent
Continue through the glen for about 6.5 km on a well-defined path, crossing several streams along the way. Eventually, you’ll reach a fork in the path, marked by a large stone. Here, the imposing Blà Bheinn dominates the landscape, appearing both intimidating and unreachable.
Take the right-hand fork, which soon crosses a stream. From here, the climb begins in earnest, continuing steadily uphill to the summit. Be prepared for a couple of false peaks along the way! The first of these is a striking, pyramidal summit ahead—but don’t be fooled, as this is actually Sgùrr Hain, not your final destination.
Continue ascending toward the Druim Hain ridge, marked by a cairn—an excellent spot to rest and take in the sensational views over Loch Coruisk, with the rugged pinnacles of Sgùrr nan Gillean rising in the distance.
Here, the trail splits:
- Right—descends to Loch Coruisk
- Left—continues toward Sgùrr na Strì
The Final Climb
Navigating this next section can be a little tricky, as the faint trail weaves between boulders and heather. Soon, you’ll reach a grassy viewpoint offering a stunning, eagle-eye perspective over Camasunary Bay.
To reach the actual summit of Sgùrr na Strì, scramble over the rock blocks to the right. The summit is marked with a cairn, and from here, you’ll be rewarded with one of Scotland’s most spectacular panoramic views.
The Cuillin Ridge rises dramatically from Loch Coruisk below, while the far-off islands of Eigg, Rum, and Mull add to the breathtaking spectacle.
The true highest point of Sgùrr na Strì lies 200 meters east, across a deep gash in the ridge. From there, you can take in the views of Camasunary Bay and Loch na Creitheach, with the mighty Blà Bheinn towering in the background.
Returning to Sligachan
Retrace your steps carefully to return to the car park, taking your time to enjoy this remarkable landscape one last time.
6 BLA BHEINN (BLAVEN)
Distance: 8km
Level of difficulty: difficult
Time: 5-6 hours
Facilities: dedicated car park, with toilets
In our opinion, Blà Bheinn is one of the most magnificent mountains on the Isle of Skye. As the only Black Cuillin peak that stands apart from the main ridge, it offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.
While its ascent is more straightforward compared to other Cuillin peaks, this is by no means an easy hike. The route is steep, rocky, and exposed in places, with some scree sections requiring extra caution.
For a detailed route description, check out this post.
7 BRUACH NA FRITHE
Distance: 14km
Level of difficulty: difficult
Time: 5-6 hours
Facilities: small laybay at A866 or alternatively a large car park near Sligachan Hotel
Bruach na Frithe is a climb well worth the effort—not overly technical and relatively straightforward for experienced hikers. However, we’ve graded it difficult due to its length and the scrambling sections on the return via the northwest ridge. Alternatively, you can retrace your steps for an easier descent.
Note: Many hikers choose to ascend only as far as the Bealach na Lice, a dramatic spot on the Black Cuillin ridge that offers stunning views of the surrounding rock formations, including the striking Am Basteir.
No matter which route you choose, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramas of the mighty Cuillin Ridge, with its jagged, awe-inspiring peaks. This hike provides a gentle introduction to the Cuillin Ridge, often considered the most challenging hill walk in the UK.
For a full route description, check out this post.
8 BEN TIANAVAIG
Distance: 5.5km
Level of difficulty: easy
Time: 2-3 hours
Facilities: free, small car park (fitting 6-8 cars) at the Camustianavaig beach, no facilities
Ben Tianavaig is a coastal hill on the southern side of Loch Portree, just a short drive from Skye’s capital. This relatively easy hike rewards walkers with spectacular views, arguably some of the best along Skye’s eastern shores.
Leave your car by the beach and continue along the road to find the trailhead.
After the road bends, walk towards a white cottage with a post box—the Ben Tianavaig trailhead is through the wooden gate to the left of the cottage driveway. Though unmarked, the trail is straightforward and easy to follow in good weather.
Some of the best viewpoints are slightly higher up along the cliff edge, offering breathtaking panoramas. Below, you’ll see rolling meadows and an ancient fort, while ahead, the rock pinnacles and columns of Ben Tianavaig stand as silent witnesses to Skye’s dramatic geological past.
The summit is a spacious cliff-top plateau, marked by a trig point—and what a fantastic viewpoint it is!
From here, you’ll overlook Portree, and on a clear day, enjoy panoramic views of the Trotternish Peninsula, including the towering cliffs of Storr and the legendary Old Man of Storr. An absolutely awe-inspiring sight!
Moreover, the rocky pinnacles and Raasay island are available for closer inspection; looking south-west you’ll spot Marsco and the magnificent famous Munros of Sligachan (Sgurr nan Gillean, Am Basteir).
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