Map & Elevation
About this Route
Sgùrr nan Gillean’s Southeast Ridge is the mountain’s usual route from the Sligachan lay-by, but its historic “Tourist Route” nickname is misleading. TrailTrack’s live calculation of the supplied GPX gives a 12.7 km out-and-back with 937 m of ascent, returning by the same line. The approach follows the path into Coire Riabhach before climbing the southeast ridge to the 964 m Munro summit.
The upper route is an exposed and serious Grade 3 scramble, not a Grade 1 scramble. Route-finding can be difficult in mist and several steps are consequential; many walkers will prefer the security of a rope, and less-experienced parties should use a qualified guide. Descending the same ridge demands even more care than the ascent. Attempt it only in dry, calm summer conditions with a stable forecast—wet, icy, windy or poor-visibility conditions substantially increase the risk.
The scramble up the ridge to the summit is difficult and exposed.
Walkhighlands
Route Waypoints
Park in the lay-by on the Dunvegan road immediately north of Sligachan without obstructing the Mountain Rescue post. The path begins opposite the far end of the lay-by, crosses a footbridge over the river and continues uphill.
Continue past the waterfall and cross the burn by the wooden plank bridge. Ignore the right-hand path towards Pinnacle Ridge and follow the main path into Coire Riabhach, keeping above Loch a’ Choire Riabhaich.
Cross the corrie and climb the zigzags into the hanging corrie. Take the wide scree gully, then bear left over boulders towards the small cairn. Keep left of the large slab and follow the faint, cairned path as it zigzags onto the southeast ridge.
The exposed Grade 3 scramble includes a basalt dyke, steep rock steps and a narrow polished slab before the airy 964 m summit. Do not continue onto the West Ridge unless equipped and experienced for technical mountaineering.
Return by exactly the same southeast-ridge route. Downclimbing the exposed sections requires more care than the ascent; keep to the known line and allow extra time before descending through the corries to Sligachan.
Essential Tips
This is an exposed Grade 3 scramble in dry summer conditions, not a Grade 1 scramble. Many walkers use a rope on the upper sections. Wet, icy or wind-affected rock greatly increases the seriousness.
The approach to the ridge is difficult to follow in mist, particularly among the boulders and scree above Coire Riabhach. Carry OS Explorer 411 or Landranger 32, a compass and a backup navigation method, and know how to use them.
The route demands confident movement on steep, exposed rock and careful route-finding. If you are not experienced on Grade 3 scrambling terrain, use a qualified mountain guide or turn back before the upper ridge.
The GPX-derived estimate is 4h 7m, but difficult scrambling, route-finding and the careful downclimb can make the outing substantially longer. Start early and retain enough daylight and good weather for the descent.
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is the Southeast Ridge of Sgùrr nan Gillean?
The upper Southeast Ridge is a serious, exposed Grade 3 scramble in dry summer conditions. It requires confident movement on steep rock and careful route-finding; many walkers prefer a rope, and less-experienced parties should use a qualified guide.
How long is this Sgùrr nan Gillean route?
TrailTrack’s live calculation of the supplied GPX gives 12.7 km, 937 m of ascent and a 4h 7m estimate. Difficult scrambling, navigation and the careful descent can make the actual day considerably longer, so start early and allow a generous margin.
Where does the route start, and how do you descend?
It starts at the lay-by on the Dunvegan road immediately north of Sligachan, at GPX grid reference NG 484 299. The route returns by the same Southeast Ridge; the exposed downclimb requires extra care, and the technical West Ridge is not a normal walking descent.