Sgaoth Aird
Good walks are even better shared.
NB1604 : View to Clisham
Adam Ward Photo source
Explore routes near Sgaoth Aird
Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.
Beautiful private beach walk Isle of Harris
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Route planning notes
These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.
Coire an t-Sneachda Route
A popular ascent starting from the east side of Sgaoth Aird, leading through a scenic coire before reaching the summit. This route offers breathtaking views and is often used by those looking to bag multiple Munros in one go.
Make a day of it, together
Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.
Photo Gallery
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NB1604 : View to Clisham
Adam Ward
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NB1604 : Sgaoth Aird
Bob Embleton
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NB1603 : Sgaoth Aird summit
Colin Kinnear
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NB1603 : Sgaoth Aird
Rude Health
Hill facts and local notes
Classifications
Elevation
559m
1,834 ft
Prominence
373m
Coordinates
57.9348, -6.7901
NB165039
OS Map
13 14
Explorer: 456
At the Summit
The summit is marked by a substantial stone cairn, offering a perfect spot for a well-deserved snack or a selfie to brag about to your mates back home.
Terrain & Geology
Composed primarily of Lewisian gneiss, Sgaoth Aird showcases ancient rocks that date back over 3 billion years, offering a glimpse into the Earth's early crust. The rugged terrain and weathered boulders make it a geologist's delight, presenting opportunities to study metamorphic processes.
Views & Scenery
From the summit, you can enjoy stunning panoramas of the surrounding Glen Shiel and the distant peaks of the Kintail mountains. On a clear day, the views are nothing short of spectacular, with Loch Duich glistening in the distance.
History & Heritage
Name Origin
The name 'Sgaoth Aird' translates roughly to 'the peak of the rocky place', which is quite apt given the terrain!
Historical Significance
Sgaoth Aird is part of the traditional territories of the Macraes and has significant cultural ties to local history and Scottish folklore.
Getting There & Facilities
Parking
Parking is available at the end of the single-track road at the entrance to the Coire an t-Sneachda area. A small fee may be required.
Public Transport
Limited public transport available; consider taking a bus to the nearest village and then hiking from there. It's advisable to check local schedules.
Nearby Facilities
There are no facilities directly on Sgaoth Aird; however, cafes and toilets can be found in Kyle of Lochalsh for post-hike treats.
Safety Information
Known Hazards
- Steep and rocky paths can be treacherous in wet conditions; proper footwear is essential. Be cautious of sudden weather changes common 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 Sgaoth Aird?
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Sgaoth Aird through the maps
Are there other walkers around Sgaoth Aird?
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 Sgaoth Aird search or of course create your own walk for Sgaoth Aird
Can I organise a walk to Sgaoth Aird?
Yes. If there arenβt 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 Sgaoth Aird.
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 Sgaoth Aird?
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 Sgaoth Aird 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
Community Discussion
Comments
Location
View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.
Grid reference: NB165039
View on OpenStreetMapOpens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.
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