Cuillin Ridge Traverse
The Uk’s Most Challenging Mountain Adventure
The Cuillin Ridge follows a 12km crest across 12 Munros on the Isle of Skye, Scotland. A full traverse typically takes 20 hours and is best completed over two days, with a bivouac on the ridge. We offer this trip in May, with bookings structured as 3-day trips to allow for the best weather window.
Trip Duration: 3 days (best 2 days on the ridge)
Optional 4-5 day trips available for improved preparation and weather flexibility
The Route
12 km ridge crossing 12 Munros
Long sections of Grade 3+ scrambling
3 avoidable rock climbing sections (Severe)
Perfect for confident hillwalkers or climbers
Overnight bivouac on the mountain (weather permitting)
Completed over 2 days, can be
Who Is This For?
Experienced hillwalkers comfortable on exposed terrain
Climbers seeking a technical, adventurous objective
Fit, confident individuals wanting a classic UK alpine challenge
Experience & Fitness
To enjoy the Cuillin Ridge safely and successfully, you should:
Confident on Grade 2–3 scrambling
Some rock climbing experience
Mountain fitness for 10–14 hour days
Comfortable with rope work and team movement
If you’re unsure whether this objective is suitable, I’m happy to discuss your experience and help you decide or suggest preparatory days on Skye or elsewhere.
Guiding Ratios & Safety
Guiding ratios are 1:1 or 2:1. To maximise your chance of a successful traverse, we schedule 3-day trips, using the best two days for the ridge. For those wanting even greater flexibility or higher likelihood of perfect weather, you can book a 4- or 5-day trip, which allows extra time for challenging conditions or extra acclimatisation. Safety is always our top priority.
What’s Included
Qualified and experienced guiding
Detailed planning and weather monitoring
Flexible scheduling with a three-day weather window
Use of group technical equipment (ropes, protection, safety kit)
Route choice and decision-making tailored to conditions and ability
All technical equipment (harness and helmets can also be borrowed)
What’s Not Included
Food and accommodation
Transport to and from Skye
Personal insurance
A full kit list and logistical briefing will be provided on booking.
Pricing
Pricing depends on trip length and guiding ratio. Contact me for a personalised quote and to discuss availability
