Sgùrr na Stri Skye Hike: A Walk to the Best View in Scotland

Sgurr na Stri on the right (from Elgol)

Sgùrr na Stri is often considered one of the best viewpoints in the UK, and for good reason. Perched at 494 meters, it offers a breathtaking panorama that captures the drama and vastness of the Isle of Skye. Those who reach the summit are rewarded with sweeping views over Loch Coruisk, the rugged Cuillin Ridge, and the islands of Rum and Eigg. It’s a sight that will linger with you long after you leave. This is a place to feel small, where the vastness of the Cuillin Ridge and the Milky Way overhead stir a deep connection to the timeless sense of awe humans have felt while gazing at the stars.

The most common route begins at Sligachan, taking you through about 22 kilometers of rocky terrain. There’s also a shorter option from Elgol, with a boat ride to Loch Coruisk on the Misty Isle, cutting the walking distance to under 5 kilometers. Regardless of the route, what lies ahead is a challenging ascent over steep slabs of rock, leading to the dramatic plateau. On clear days, the summit is the perfect place for hours of contemplation and photography. Loch Coruisk, in particular, steals the show, with its dark waters framed by the towering peaks of the Black Cuillin.

Camasunary Bay on Walk from Sligachan

For photography lovers, Sgùrr na Stri offers excellent opportunities. Dawn and sunset light up the landscape in golden hues, and on clear nights, the stars come to life. This walk is about immersion in the raw, wild beauty of Skye.

That said, it is a walk that should not be taken lightly. From Sligachan the terrain can be boggy, and weather conditions unpredictable. 

For those with a love of wild landscapes, who enjoy solitude and the challenge of remote walks, Sgùrr na Stri might just be the best hike in Britain. If you’re looking for route guidance, we recommend visiting trusted walking websites like WalkHighlands for detailed maps and instructions​.

Captain Maryon Monument © John Allan (cc-by-sa/2.0)

Captain Maryon Cairn

On your journey to the top of Sgùrr na Stri from Sligachn, you’ll pass closeby pass a poignant landmark: Captain Maryon’s Cairn (approx location: ///efficient.arranged.traffic). This well-built cairn stands at around two meters tall, marking the spot where Captain A.J. Maryon’s remains were found nearly two years after he went missing during a walk from Sligachan in 1946. His wartime friend, Myles Morrison, erected this cairn in his memory, a feat of dedication given the remote location.

While it’s not directly on the route, it’s a short diversion worth taking if you wish to pay tribute to the history tied to this wild and dramatic place​.

Plaque on Captain Maryon’s Cairn © John Allan (cc-by-sa/2.0)

Practical Considerations for the Hike

Sgùrr na Stri is an experience shaped by the conditions of the day. Weather plays a significant role, with sudden changes capable of making the journey much tougher. After rain, the path can become boggy, and river crossings may become hazardous. For those aiming to capture sunrise or sunset shots, camping near the summit is an option, though space is limited and the ground is ofcourse rocky, making it trickier to secure tents. Phone signals on this hike can be intermittent. It is always recommended to tell someone where you are going, the route you plan to take and when you expect to be back. 

When to Visit for the Best Views

Timing your hike can make a world of difference when it comes to enjoying the views from Sgùrr na Stri. Early mornings offer the best chance of clear skies, with sunrise casting a golden light over the Cuillin Ridge and Loch Coruisk. The atmosphere is equally majestic at sunset, as the light fades over the islands of Rum and Eigg. For night photographers, the dark skies provide a fantastic opportunity to capture the Milky Way on clear nights. However, these rewards come with the challenge of navigating in the early or late hours.