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Sgurr nan Gillean Group Walks | Join a Walk
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Elevation
764m
2,507 ft
Prominence
79m
Coordinates
56.9542, -6.3104
NM380930
OS Map
39
Explorer: 397
The summit is marked by a prominent cairn, which is a fitting token to leave atop your adventures. Just a heads up—it's not for lounging, but it might make for a great photo op!
Sgurr nan Gillean is primarily composed of old volcanic rock, with a unique formation of gabbro, which is renowned for its durability and excellent grip for climbers. Just try not to take too many embarrassing tumbles up these rocky slopes!
From the summit, you can enjoy stunning views of the Cuillin ridge, the Isle of Skye, and even glimpses of the Outer Hebrides on a clear day. And yes, the sunsets? They're worth every step.
Sgurr nan Gillean translates to 'the peak of the young men' in Gaelic, a nod to the youthful spirits that have accepted its challenge over the centuries.
It holds a prominent place in the culture and legends of the Isle of Skye, often featured in local folktales and an iconic feature in Scottish mountaineering.
This is the most popular and well-known route to the summit of Sgurr nan Gillean, starting from the Sligachan Hotel. The route follows a good path along the Allt Dearg Mor before ascending Coire Riabhach. The final scramble to the summit involves some exposed sections, but it is manageable for experienced hillwalkers.
This route is a classic scramble and one of the most adventurous ways to reach the summit. Starting from Sligachan, the approach leads to Coire a' Bhasteir before ascending the dramatic Pinnacle Ridge. This is a highly technical route involving sustained scrambling and exposure, suitable only for experienced climbers.
This route approaches the summit from the west, starting from Glen Brittle and ascending via Coire Lagan. The West Ridge involves some scrambling and airy sections, providing an alternative to the more commonly used Tourist Route for experienced hillwalkers.
This full traverse of Sgurr nan Gillean is a demanding day out, linking the summit with other peaks of the Black Cuillin. Starting from Sligachan, the route climbs Sgurr nan Gillean via Coire Riabhach before continuing along the ridge to Glen Brittle. A high level of fitness and scrambling experience is required.
This circuit combines the ascent of Sgurr nan Gillean with its neighbouring peak, Am Basteir. Starting from Sligachan, the route climbs Coire a' Bhasteir to reach Am Basteir before continuing to the summit of Sgurr nan Gillean. The descent follows the Tourist Route. Some scrambling experience is required.
The nearest parking is at the Sligachan Hotel car park, which offers ample space, though it can fill up quickly during peak season. Arrive early, or risk a long walk!
Buses run regularly to Sligachan from Portree and other locations on the Isle of Skye. Be sure to plan your journey back as services may be limited.
Sligachan Hotel offers meals, drinks, and a warm place to rest those weary limbs. Toilets are available on site, which is always a relief after a long trek!
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Some common questions about the hills answered
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Sgurr nan Gillean through the maps
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 Sgurr nan Gillean search or of course create your own walk for Sgurr nan Gillean
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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.
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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Grid Ref: NM380930
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Sgurr Dearg - Inaccessible Pinnacle
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