Trip report by BestHike editor Rick McCharles.
It’s possible to hike both Old Man of Storr and the Quiraing Circuit on the same day by bus out of Portree, the main town on the Isle of Skye.
I decided to hike Storr. Then continue by bus to Quiraiing — tenting one night on the Circuit.
The scenery is similar to Storr. Towering basalt cliffs, jagged rock spires, and sweeping green terraces formed by ancient landslips.
More dangerous than it looks. Loose rock. Steep cliff drops. Mud.
It was a rare sunny day late September. No midges.
Sheep pay no attention to hikers.
I used AllTrails The Quiraing Circuit for navigation. Not needed, however.
It’s a simple loop ➙ half walking under the ridge. Half on top. About 7km return.
I opted to start under the ridge, planning to tent somewhere en route. I correctly figured it would be more sheltered for tenting.
Later in the afternoon, I got some terrific light.
This wedding photographer picked the perfect day and time.
This beastly spire is part of the section known as the Prison.
I found a spot for my tent — but climbed up to explore whether or not I might like a cliff edge vista.
Majestic views, but too exposed.
Bizarre pond down below.
I ended up in this lovely spot. No rain and not much wind all night.
Awaking in the morning, the downpour began.
Unfortunately, I had to climb up on to the ridge in howling wind to complete the circuit.
I took few photos. It was miserable on the return.
After the 2nd time I fell into the mud, I decided to flee to Inverness. Ending my Skye hiking.
Too bad. Just the day before I had resolve to try part of the famed Skye Trail for some days. NOPE. That’s just for hard men.
With this harsh climate, I don’t think I’d return to Skye without a motor vehicle. Here are some of the attractions I missed.
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