Skye Trail

Let’s say it right out: this is not a beginner’s route! The Skye Trail is an unofficial path, lacking waymarks, and often without defined paths at all. It is situated on the half island “Isle of Skye,” the largest and northernmost island right off the northwest coast of Scotland. The name, derived from “Isle of Clouds,” also referred to as the “Isle of Fog,” gives you a little impression of what’s coming up.

This trail guides you along remote paths over the hills of Trotternish Ridge, the black & red Cuillin, through the wild Highlands and Coast Cliffs. Not without reason, this area is known as the most dramatic and beautiful mountain area in the whole of the UK.

You will also encounter very unique flora along your way. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for whales, dolphins, seals, and the famous sea eagle. I would say this is an all-in-one package of everything you could wish for in one trip.

As there are no waymarks and sometimes no paths at all, so excellent map-reading skills are needed! You can find offline maps on different apps and websites, but believe me, navigating through the boggy Highlands without a visible path is much easier with a paper map and a good overview. However, having offline maps on your phone as a safety backup? Absolutely!

Good gear that withstands the Scottish weather and wind is also a must-have! Known as the Isle of Fog, you can imagine that bad and stormy weather is often not far away. Please be aware of these conditions. Some parts require climbing, and these areas become extremely slippery when wet. Exposed sections are dangerous with poor visibility. Always check the weather daily!

But why is this tour still considered “moderate to difficult”? If you choose to hike this trail during summer and are lucky enough to have good weather for seven days in a row, this trail is moderate to manage. However, if you’re not that fortunate or choose to hike it off-season, some sections can become dangerous!

So, are you ready for a journey steeped in myth, legend, and natural beauty?

Similar to many other countries, the optimal time for hiking is during the summer months (April-September). However, Scotland offers a unique proposition with its landscape dominated by hills, lots of hills! The highest mountain, Ben Nevis, stands at 1345m (4413ft). So yes, Scotland is hikable all year long, and each season brings its advantages and challenges.

Summer Months: During the summer, you are blessed with long days, providing ample time to cover your distance without feeling rushed. It’s an opportunity to enjoy lochs for a swim and have leisurely lunches with scenic views. Especially in certain highland areas, hiking during the dark should be avoided due to boggy terrains that require special attention. The summer months generally offer the driest days, with temperatures reaching about 18-20°C (65-68°F). However, Scotland’s abundance of water, including rivers, lakes, and marshes, brings its biggest challenge: MIDGES! Tiny little mosquitoes that can be quite bothersome and sting.

Winter Months: On the upside, winter months are free of midges, but there’s a trade-off. Expect a lot of rain, and snow is possible from the end of October until March. The days become significantly shorter, nights colder, and storms more frequent, making camping more challenging. But in the winter months, you have the opportunity to see the country with fresh eyes as trees and fields undergo a transformation, changing their colors from green to warm orange all over.

In conclusion, a very German piece of advice from my side: “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only the wrong gear!” Scotland will be your grandest adventure with the right equipment.

For Summer Months

• Don’t forget a mosquito net for your face, thin long sleeves, trousers (no worries, Scottish summers rarely exceed 20°C), or insect repellent.
• Opt for a tent that is mosquito-safe.
• Since it rains about 182 days in Scotland (265 days in this part), a rain jacket is essential, even in summer. You will never be safe from getting wet.

For Winter Months

• Always pack a hardshell raincoat and rain trousers – you will get wet!
• Depending on your chosen trail, include an ice axe and crampons.
• A tent is often inevitable, especially in remote areas where bothies or village accommodations may not be accessible. During winter, storms can be intense, so ensure your tent has sufficient safety lines. If not, your tent may break or fly away. A dangerous situation in which none of us wants to find Ourselves.

General Gear

• A water filter is a must-have due to Scotland’s abundance of water sources and rich wildlife. Filter or boil water for at least 3 minutes. This way some areas even allow you to carry none at all.
• A paper map is essential not just for simplynavigatinge this trail but also for a good overview of the area, helping you find quick escape routes or alternative paths.
• Scotland is home to diverse wildlife, including deer, birds, and seals. Not a danger to you but maintain a respectful distance to avoid disturbance.
• Always check the weather before heading back on the trail.
• Due to remote areas with unreliable reception, especially for solo hikers, a satellite tracker is highly recommended and can be a lifesaver.
• A guidebook provides insights into upcoming terrain and helps you find suitable spots for your tent, considering the boggy areas where camping may be restricted.

With this comprehensive gear, you can hike with confidence, whether navigating through summer rains or winter storms. Stay safe and enjoy the adventure!