NC1930 : Cloud clearing from Sail Ghorm, Quinag

Quinag - Sail Ghorm [Sail Gorm]

776m Elevation
158m Prominence
Scotland Country
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NC1930 : Cloud clearing from Sail Ghorm, Quinag

Jim Barton Photo source

Explore routes near Quinag - Sail Ghorm [Sail Gorm]

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Ben Klibreck

16.9 km ~8h 20m Moderate

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Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

Classic Quinag Traverse

This route traverses all three peaks of Quinag, including Sail Ghorm. Starting from the car park on the A894 (grid ref NC233274), follow a well-defined path heading west towards the base of Quinag. Ascend to Spidean Coinich first, then continue along the ridge to Sail Gharbh. Finally, traverse to Sail Ghorm, enjoying spectacular views of Sutherland at every stage. Descend via the same route or follow the southern flank of the massif back to the starting point.

14.5 km ~7 hours Strenuous

Direct Ascent of Sail Ghorm

This route focuses solely on Sail Ghorm. Begin at the parking area on the A894 (grid ref NC233274) and head west, following the path towards the Quinag massif. At the base of Sail Ghorm, leave the main path and ascend directly up its northern slopes. This is a relatively straightforward climb with grassy slopes and some rocky sections. Descend via the same route.

9 km ~4.5 hours Moderate

Circular Route via Gleann Leireag

This scenic circular route explores the southern approach to Sail Ghorm. Start from the same A894 car park and head southwest into Gleann Leireag. Follow the glen until you reach the southern slopes of Sail Ghorm. Ascend steeply to the summit, then return via the ridge route over Sail Gharbh and Spidean Coinich, descending back to the car park.

16 km ~8 hours Strenuous

Short Ridge Walk to Sail Ghorm

Ideal for those seeking a shorter hike, this route starts from the same car park but focuses on Sail Ghorm alone. Ascend the main path towards Spidean Coinich but branch off early, heading directly for the ridge leading to Sail Ghorm. Follow the ridge to the summit and return the same way.

7.5 km ~4 hours Moderate

Wild Camping Route to Sail Ghorm

This two-day adventure involves an overnight wild camping experience. Starting from the A894 car park, ascend Spidean Coinich and traverse the ridge to Sail Gharbh. Set up camp near the bealach between Sail Gharbh and Sail Ghorm. On the second day, ascend Sail Ghorm and explore its surrounds before descending via Gleann Leireag to complete the loop.

18 km ~10 hours Challenging
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Corbett Simm

Elevation

776m

2,546 ft

Prominence

158m

Coordinates

58.2256, -5.0695

NC198304

OS Map

15

Explorer: 442W

At the Summit

The summit is marked by a prominent cairn and offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including the spectacular Foinaven to the north.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky with grassy patches interspersed with steep sections.

Primarily composed of gneiss and schist, Quinag showcases fascinating geological formations. The rugged terrain offers a glimpse into Scotland's ancient geological history, with rocks dating back over a billion years.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, hikers can enjoy breathtaking views of the West Coast and distant mountains including Suilven and Cul Mor.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Quinag' is derived from the Gaelic 'Cnaigeach', meaning 'the small hill', which, as they say, is quite a humble title for such a majestic mountain.

Historical Significance

In Scottish culture, Quinag is celebrated for its striking landscapes, drawing hikers and climbers from near and far, evoking tales of ancient clans and lore.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is a small layby on the A894 near NC198304, where parking is available. Arrive early to secure a spot.

Public Transport

Buses from Ullapool run to Inchnadamph, though services may be infrequent. Check timetables ahead.

Nearby Facilities

Aye, there's a pub in Inchnadamph serving food and drink, as well as public toilets.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Steep and rocky paths may pose slipping hazards, especially in wet conditions. As always, be wary of sudden weather changes in the Highlands.

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

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Quinag - Sail Ghorm [Sail Gorm]?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Quinag - Sail Ghorm [Sail Gorm] through the maps

Are there other walkers around Quinag - Sail Ghorm [Sail Gorm]?

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 Quinag - Sail Ghorm [Sail Gorm] search or of course create your own walk for Quinag - Sail Ghorm [Sail Gorm]

Can I organise a walk to Quinag - Sail Ghorm [Sail Gorm]?

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 Quinag - Sail Ghorm [Sail Gorm].

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 Quinag - Sail Ghorm [Sail Gorm]?

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.

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

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Location

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: NC198304

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Nearby Hills

Quinag - Sail Gharbh

809m

Quinag - Spidean Coinich

764m

Canisp

847m

Suilven

731m

Ben Stack

721m
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