NC1010 : Cùl Mòr and Cùl Beag from the ridge of Stac Pollaidh

Stac Pollaidh

612m Elevation
440m Prominence
Scotland Country
Find walking friends Explore routes

Good walks are even better shared.

NC1010 : Cùl Mòr and Cùl Beag from the ridge of Stac Pollaidh

Stephen Crawshaw Photo source

Explore routes near Stac Pollaidh

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

Ben Klibreck

16.9 km ~8h 20m Moderate

View route

Route planning notes

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

Stac Pollaidh Circular Route

This is the classic circular route around Stac Pollaidh, starting from the car park. It ascends the well-maintained path on the southern side, offering spectacular views over the Inverpolly wilderness before reaching the ridge. The route then descends along the northern side, completing a loop.

4.5 km ~2 hours Moderate

Stac Pollaidh Ridge Walk

A challenging but rewarding ridge walk. After ascending the southern path to the ridge, this route involves some scrambling to traverse the ridge towards the true summit. The views here are unparalleled, offering a 360-degree panorama of Assynt's dramatic landscapes. Return via the same southern path.

5 km ~3 hours Difficult

Stac Pollaidh and Loch Lurgainn Viewpoint

This route combines the southern ascent of Stac Pollaidh with a detour to a viewpoint overlooking Loch Lurgainn. After enjoying the ridge, descend via the northern path and take the trail leading to the loch for a serene view before returning to the car park.

6 km ~2.5 hours Moderate

Short Ascent to Ridge

Ideal for those with limited time, this route follows the southern path up to the ridge but avoids the more technical sections of the summit. It provides fantastic views and a rewarding climb without the need for scrambling. Return via the same path.

3.5 km ~1.5 hours Easy

Extended Inverpolly Exploration

This longer route incorporates the full Stac Pollaidh circular route with an additional section exploring the surrounding trails and viewpoints in the Inverpolly area. A great option for experienced walkers looking for a full day out.

10 km ~5 hours Difficult
Browse more walks on the map

Make a day of it, together

Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.

Find walking friends Plan a walk here
Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Graham Simm

Elevation

612m

2,009 ft

Prominence

440m

Coordinates

58.0441, -5.2085

NC107106

OS Map

15

Explorer: 439E

At the Summit

The summit features a prominent rocky outcrop that serves as a perfect vantage point for breathtaking views. A small cairn can be found at the peak, providing an ideal spot for a well-deserved snack break.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky and grassy with sections of steep ascents and some scree.

Stac Pollaidh is primarily composed of ancient Lewisian Gneiss, offering stunning rock formations that date back over 3 billion years. The rock displays fascinating layers and textures, with the summit showcasing dramatic sheer cliffs and rugged outcrops.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, enjoy panoramic views of the Assynt region, including the dramatic peaks of Cul Mor and Cul Beag, as well as the sparkling waters of the nearby Loch Lurgainn.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Stac Pollaidh' is derived from the Gaelic 'Stac', meaning 'stack' or 'crag', and 'Pollaidh', which may refer to a local place named after the goddess of the sea, highlighting its geographic significance.

Historical Significance

Stac Pollaidh has long been a beacon for climbers and walkers, celebrated for its unique geological formations and striking natural beauty.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is a car park at Inchnadamph, approximately 5 km from Stac Pollaidh. The parking area can accommodate several vehicles but can fill up quickly during peak season.

Public Transport

Buses run from Ullapool to Inchnadamph, although services may be infrequent. Check local timetables to avoid being left high and dry.

Nearby Facilities

While there are no facilities directly at Stac Pollaidh, Ullapool provides cafes, restaurants, and toilets for your convenience before or after your hike.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Loose rocks, steep drops, and inclement weather can all pose risks. Beautiful views don't correlate with safety, so keep an eye on the weather.

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 Stac Pollaidh?

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

Are there other walkers around Stac Pollaidh?

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 Stac Pollaidh search or of course create your own walk for Stac Pollaidh

Can I organise a walk to Stac Pollaidh?

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 Stac Pollaidh.

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 Stac Pollaidh?

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 Stac Pollaidh 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

Location

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: NC107106

View on OpenStreetMap

Opens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.

Nearby Hills

Ben More Coigach [Beinn Mhor na Coigich]

743m

Cul Mor

850m

Suilven

731m

Canisp

847m

Quinag - Spidean Coinich

764m
See 5 more nearby hills