Climbing
Non-technical rock
Alpine climbing NCCS rating
Grade I
Elevation Gain
550.00 m (1,804.46 ft)
Distance
4.51 km (2.80 mi)
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Stac Pollaidh is one of the most popular and busy summits in the North Highlands/Assynt region. Its short length makes the steep climb an easy choice. The incredible views from the summit and well-defined trail also add to its appeal. The trail is very easy to follow, even in inclement weather, as it is always well defined. 

The parking lot is fairly obvious, about a 20 minutes' drive north of Ullapool. Turning at the junction to Reiff/Achiltibuie, it is a very short drive down to a parking lot beside the lake. The trail is a very steep mix of well-trod trail turning quickly into stairs. As you climb, you'll notice many opportunities to explore multi-pitch climbing routes on the rock walls of Reiff/Achiltibuie.

The trail curves around back, getting increasingly steep as you approach the top. It's a short jaunt to a big flat open area at a false summit. The standard trail stops here, but you can follow the ridge west and ascend a bit. This passes over a brief exposed step that requires two fourth-class scrambling moves to overcome, a narrow ridge, and then the true summit. Descend the way you came onto the trail, but continue counter-clockwise for a full circuit.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Summer

Congestion

High

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Beautiful rock. Great views. Accessible. Quick day out.

Cons

Very busy. Steep climb. Stairs take away some of the feel. Long way away from population centres.

Pets allowed

Allowed with Restrictions

Trailhead Elevation

32.81 ft (10.00 m)

Highest point

1,968.50 ft (600.00 m)

Features

Wildflowers
Big vistas
Waterfalls
Backcountry camping

Access

Vehicle

Typically multi-day

No

Permit required

No

Primary aspect

North facing

Drinking water

Unfrozen water

Location

Comments

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