Trip report by BestHike editor Rick McCharles.
The Old Man of Storr is a 55-metre-high basalt rock pinnacle standing dramatically on the Trotternish Ridge of the Isle of Skye in Scotland.
Created by an ancient, massive landslide, this striking geological landmark sits roughly 7 miles north of Portree and is the most popular hiking attraction on the entire island.
Easy and inexpensive bus access from Portree keeps this short day hike busy. In fact, all 300,000 visitors / year seemed to be out on the rare sunny day I was there. 😀
- Distance: 3.8 km (2.4 miles) round trip.
- Time: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Difficulty: Moderate. The gravel trail is well-maintained but climbs steeply, gaining about 205 metres (700 feet) of elevation.
- Terrain: Mostly firm gravel paths and pitched stone steps. The final stretches up near the “Sanctuary” (the base of the spires) can become muddy, rocky, and slippery, so sturdy footwear and the balance of a mountain goat are recommended
- Aim to arrive before 8:00 AM or later in the evening to secure a parking space and enjoy a quieter hike
- Several buses a day can get you here
Here’s the start.
And here’s Storr, the main attraction.
Of course there are many more spires, some even more striking.
There are a number of viewpoints.
Follow the sheep along the roped off trail …
… or hop the rope and enjoy equally fantastic scenery on your own.
I had lunch and enjoyed the sunshine for about an hour without seeing any other people. I had plenty of time, waiting on the bus to my next hike.
A fantastic place.
Though it was a sunny day, we had some sun showers.
Highly recommended if you get to remote Isle of Skye.
I’d posted an A.I. modified image of myself — aged by the Scottish highlands. 😀
Though no app is needed once you get to the trailhead, I had AllTrails – The Old Man of Storr Loop open.
Click PLAY or watch some drone footage on YouTube.
