Stac Pollaidh Circular Walk

Route Description for Stac Pollaidh Circular Walk

Be warned: the Stac Pollaidh Circular Walk will take a lot out of you physically, but it will feed you and fill you right back up with the smorgasbord of views. Some may see the short length and think, “hmmm this looks easy!” However, do note that this route is definitely not for the faint of heart. It’s gruelling, technically challenging, with some minor scrambling involved. You may also experience a temptation to climb to the true summit of Stac Pollaidh, but leave this one for the more experienced scramblers. Dogs can accompany you, but the ridge can be dangerous for pups, so we advise leaving your furry mates at home!

Whenever you decide to tackle the ever-so phenomenal Stac Pollaidh Circular Walk, expect a consistent unveiling of unreal views: Summer Isles in the southwest, Loch Veyatie tucked into the northwest and Assynt to the north. Thankfully, you can still reach the ridge via light scrambling—it may not be the actual summit, but it’s still the perfect nod to a rugged adventure worth your while.

Those seeking a more accessible version of the Stac Pollaidh Circular Walk may enjoy the out-and-back route: the Stac Pollaidh Walk, which avoids the wetter, less rugged part of this loop on the way back. Both walks set off from the same location, Stac Pollaidh Car Park, so you’ll have some time to figure out if you’re in the mood for even more adventure or would prefer to turn around and head back the way you came. Download both routes and decide along the way!

Setting out from the car park, go across the road to walk along the path heading towards a gate. Get ready to start ascending through woodland before reaching moorland. Take the newer route around the mountain, which was developed to prevent erosion. If you see hints of the old path, avoid it, and continue along the new trail. Look for glimpses of Sgùrr Tuath and Loch Lurgainn and Cul Beag flattering the east. Continue walking, ignoring the path to the left, and keep climbing, following the path as it bends around Stac Pollaidh. Finally, go through a gate to enter moorland.

The path will continue curving around the far side of Stac Pollaidh, where Suilven, a mountain standing at 731 m across Assynt, will catch your eye. At the intersection, you can choose to ascend the ridge here, but our route continues around the base of Stac Pollaidh to the lowest part of the ridge, where more views await! Revel in the Summer Isles, Loch Veyatie, Suilven adding colour to the backdrop. There’s another option to climb higher via a minor scramble. This won’t take you to Stac Pollaidh’s true summit, though (the true summit is actually out of bounds for regular walkers).

After basking in the scenery, go back the way you came, where you’ll reach the junction granting the option to retrace your steps back to the car park or take a left to follow the loop as it continues to wrap around the mountain’s base. Expect more technicalities en route! Soon, you’ll reach the same gate from the start of the walk, signalling that you’re almost back at your car. Follow the same path that you started on to finish this incredible route.

Trail Highlights

Stac Pollaidh

Stac Pollaidh stands tall at 613 m, making it an envied summit for experienced scramblers seeking epic Scottish Highland views from up high. However, some rank Stac Pollaidh as one of the most challenging summits to tackle in Britain! Some locals refer to Stac Pollaidh as Stac Polly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take my dog on the Stac Pollaidh Walk?

We recommend keeping your dog at home, especially if you’re thinking of taking on the ridge portion of this walk. The steep drops can be hazardous for you and your pup!

Can I bring my kids on the Stac Pollaidh Walk?

We also suggest keeping your kids at home on the Stac Pollaidh Walk. Not only is it steep, but some technical sections may not be appropriate for children.

Insider Hints for Stac Pollaidh Circular Walk

• For public transport, you can take bus 811 from Ullapool to the trailhead. This bus doesn’t run all the time, though!
• Some may find it easier following the out-and-back route rather than the circular walk described above—they may be close in length, but the loop is a bit more technical.
• It’s possible to avoid climbing to the ridge—and you’ll still catch unreal views.
• We suggest leaving your dog at home for this walk.