Askival

Askival

Askival Group Walks | Join a Walk

812m Elevation
812m Prominence
Scotland Country

Join group walks, find walking companions and friends, or organise your own!

Classifications

Marilyn Corbett Sim High Hill of Britain SIB

Looking for walking companions?

Don't walk alone! Find friendly walkers to explore Askival together. Join scheduled group walks or start your own.

Elevation

812m

2,664 ft

Prominence

812m

Coordinates

56.9744, -6.2915

NM393952

OS Map

39

Explorer: 397

At the Summit

The summit of Askival features a small stone cairn and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding hills and water bodies.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky and grassy with some steep sections requiring careful navigation.

Askival is primarily composed of basalt and other volcanic rocks, formed from ancient lava flows. This rugged terrain provides insights into the geological activity that shaped the Isle of Skye.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can enjoy stunning views of the Cuillin Ridge, Loch Slapin, and the picturesque landscapes of the Isle of Skye.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Askival' derives from the Norse words 'askr' meaning 'ash tree' and 'völlr' meaning 'field' or 'meadow'.

Historical Significance

Askival holds cultural significance for its connection to local legends and its status as a popular hiking destination in Scotland.

Popular Routes

Askival via Hallival

Challenging

A classic route starting from Kinloch, heading along the main Rum Cuillin ridge via Hallival before reaching the summit of Askival. This route offers incredible views and involves some scrambling. Descend the same way.

10 km 5 hours

Askival Circular via Dibidil Bothy

Very Challenging

A circular route starting at Kinloch that heads south through Glen Dibidil towards Dibidil Bothy, before ascending Askival from the southern slopes. Return via the northern ridge, passing Hallival.

15 km 8 hours

Askival Direct Ascent from Kinloch

Challenging

A direct ascent route from Kinloch, following the path towards Coire Dubh before tackling the steep northern flank of Askival. A shorter but steep and strenuous climb.

8 km 4.5 hours

Rum Cuillin Traverse

Extremely Challenging

An ambitious traverse of the entire Rum Cuillin ridge, starting with Hallival and Askival before continuing to Ainshval and Sgurr nan Gillean. A full day's effort requiring excellent fitness and scrambling skills.

18 km 10 hours

Askival and Ainshval Circuit

Very Challenging

A loop route from Kinloch that ascends Askival via the northern ridge, continues to Ainshval, and descends through Glen Dibidil. A scenic and demanding hike.

13 km 7 hours

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

The nearest parking is at the end of the B8083, near Blaven, with space for about 10 cars. Arrive early to secure your spot!

Public Transport

Buses run from Portree to Elgol, though it’s advisable to have a car for more convenient access.

Nearby Facilities

The nearest facilities can be found in Portree, including cafes, pubs, and public toilets.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Steep drops on some sections, potential for sudden weather changes, and slippery rocks—don’t forget your sensible shoes!

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Find Walking Companions

Join friendly walkers exploring Askival and surrounding area

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Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Askival?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Askival through the maps

Are there other walkers around Askival?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Askival search or of course create your own walk for Askival

Can I organise a walk to Askival?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Askival.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Askival?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Askival here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible