Trail (UK)

Isle of Skye

SCRAMBLE SPECIAL 9km/5½ miles 5-6 hours

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NG409204 The route starts just before the Glen Brittle Campsite, with limited parking available on the road before reaching the campsite entrance. (NG409204). The route follows the same route up as it does back. From parking just outside the campsite, follow the track through the site and towards the toilet block. Keep left, and exit through the wooden gate. This section is well marked with the stony footpath that’s been constructe­d, leading up the grassy hill.

NG421203 As the path winds up, continue straight towards the looming mass of Sgurr Alasdair, ignoring a path branching off to the right. A small cairn will become visible. Head towards it and then beyond, scrambling up between two prominent boulders. NG442207 The loch will now be clearly visible, and a worn track can be distinguis­hed going to the left-hand side, leading over rocks. The track loops around the top of the loch and aims towards the bottom of a huge scree chute, The Great Stone Chute.

NG445208 The bottom of the chute winds its way up slightly, with very loose scree making it hard going, with hands and feet being needed in places to aid progressio­n. As the ascent continues, the gully narrows between the cliffs and the rocks become larger. The top of the chute will loom into view as it reaches the steepest part. Usually this will be distinguis­hable by the small bivvy spots built by fellow climbers. Be wary of stone fall if others are above you in the chute.

NG450208 From the narrow col the last section provides a challengin­g but low grade scramble as you ascend to the summit. The route to the top continues to the right, which is a straightfo­rward scramble although is very exposed on both sides. Continue to the very narrow summit, marked by a small cairn.

NG450207 From the summit, the views extend to the rest of Cuillin and the islands to the south-west. From here, again descend the ridge, heading slightly to the right to help with the descent. There is a small section of ledge which can also be taken, winding around the ridge to the start of the Great Stone Chute. Continue down the chute to the loch and retrace your route back to the campsite.

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 ??  ?? Sgurr Alasdair from Sgurr Dearg.
Sgurr Alasdair from Sgurr Dearg.
 ??  ?? On the summit of Sgurr Alasdair with the Black Cuillin ridge behind.
On the summit of Sgurr Alasdair with the Black Cuillin ridge behind.

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