Quiraing walk Isle of Skye Scotland

The Quiraing walk on the Isle of Skye in Scotland is one of the most beautiful walks in Scotland that I’ve done and I’ve definitely done my fair few.

Having done hikes in Glencoe, and walks in the Cairngorms and Loch Lomond, as well as others around Fort William such as Ben Nevis, the Quiraing walk offers something different.

Sure, it’s not steep and doesn’t have endless mountain views once you reach the top.

What it does have, however, are impressive views still. It’s super green and it feels a bit like you’re walking through a Lord of the Rings set as does much of Skye in fact.

From the Quiraing you’ll get super impressive views over the Isle of Skye and I think it’s actually cooler than the nearby and more well-known Old Man of Storr. When it comes to Quiraing vs Old Man of Storr the latter is definitely an impressive rock feature, but there’s just something about the greenery on this trail.

If you’re looking for a great walk on Skye, be sure to check out my guide below.

Guide to walking the Quiraing Isle of Skye

Below you’ll find an overview of what to expect when hiking the Quiraing trail on the Isle of Skye.

We actually did this as an overnight hike finding a great spot for wild camping in Skye along the the trail.

Since the weather was forecast to be rainy overnight (and it sure was), we camped on the lower part of the trail and found a nice sheltered spot.

When we woke up, we were in a cloud and dozens of waterfalls had sprung up overnight on the large rock wall!

AllTrails is my go-to hiking app for finding, planning, and navigating while I’m out on the trails. With offline maps on AllTrails+ you can be confident you’re still on the right track, even without mobile signal.

Walk to the Quiraing Lookout

• Duration: 5 minutes (from the car park)

If you’re trying to cram in as much of Skye as possible and don’t have time to do the full hike, you can get some great views from the Quiraing Viewpoint just a short walk from the car park.

From here you’ll get great views of the greenery around and below you.

The sprawling rock seems to flow towards the sea and the knobbly peaks and the sheer cliff face are pretty impressive even without doing the hike!

Guide to the Quiraing Walk

• Duration: 2-3 hours
• Quiraing walk length: 6.9 kilometers
• Elevation Gain: 382 meters
• Quiraing walk map

Starting at the Quiraing car park, this trail can be done as a loop (per the information given in the bullets above), or as an out and back where you just do as much as you like.

Quiraing Lookout to the Needle

Starting from the Quiraing Car Park (ensure you pay and display), you’ll head across the road, towards the big rock walk, and onto the trail.

The trail can be very busy during nice weather in the summer but when we did this, we saw no one!

We hiked after dinner on a rainy evening in July so that’s clearly the weather you need if you don’t want to see anyone else.

This part of the hike is fairly flat. There are some areas that are a bit rockier and require some more attention. There are also a couple of areas where you’ll have to navigate over a tricker section and potentially a small/stream waterfall crossing depending on how wet it has been in the weeks leading up to your walk.

As you make your way along the trail, you’ll see a lake down below you to your right as well as gently rolling slopes and there will likely be plenty of sheep too!

Ahead of you is the first major landmark along the trail known as the Needle. You’ll see why!

It’s this point I recommend going to if you want a short walk, but aren’t bothered about doing the whole loop.

Quiraing Needle to Ridgeline

As you walk past the Needle, the crowds typically lessen as most people don’t continue.

From here, keep to the left of the Prison (the rocky feature on your right) and continue on the trail as it goes uphill, bending a bit to the left, over a stile, and under an overhang.

Keeping to the trails on the left, you’ll go steeply uphill as you make your way up to the ridgeline.

Take care here as it can be slippery in the mud!

You’ll pass through a dry-stone wall and then follow the path keeping the cliff face on your left and the grassy slope on your right.

The path divides into two a bit further on and you should take the lefthand option to keep the cliff on your lefthandside.

When you get to a stone wall, cross over it and continue following the rock cairns (or your AllTrails+ map).

Ridge to Car Park

Continue walking along the ridge on the main trail with the cliff on your left.

At the high point of the Quiraing Walk at around 540 metres, you can look down from the cliff and onto the Table; a flat and grassy area that’s surrounded by interesting rock formations.

Legend has it that this area was used by locals to hide sheep and cattle from potential invaders!

On a clear day, you’ll also get some incredible views of the Torridon Mountains and the sea.

Carry on walking and you’ll start to make your descent back down to the car park.

This last section can be quite muddy and a bit unclear but you can generally see the path in front of you pretty easily.

What to know before hiking the Quiraing Skye

The Quiraing is a stunning and dramatic landslip on the Isle of Skye in Scotland. It’s a popular hiking destination known for its unique landscapes and breathtaking views. If you’re planning to hike the Quiraing, here are some things you should know:

• Weather Conditions: The weather on the Isle of Skye can be unpredictable. It can change rapidly, so it’s essential to check the forecast before you head out and be prepared for all conditions. Bring waterproof and windproof clothing, even if the forecast looks clear.
• Navigation: While the main path is well-trodden, it’s always a good idea to have a map and compass with you. GPS or smartphone apps can also be helpful but don’t rely solely on them as batteries can run out or signals can be lost.
• Safety: Let someone know your plans before you head out. This is a general safety precaution for any hike. Also, be cautious near cliff edges, as they can be unstable.
• Wildlife: The area is home to various wildlife, including sheep. Be respectful, keep your distance, and if you bring a dog, make sure it’s under control at all times.
• Leave No Trace: As with any natural area, practice the Leave No Trace principles. Pack out all your trash, avoid picking plants or disturbing wildlife, and stick to established trails to minimize erosion.
• Quiraing Walk Parking: The main parking area for the Quiraing is relatively small and can fill up quickly during peak times. Arrive early or be prepared to wait for a spot. There’s a small parking fee, so bring some change.
• Facilities: There are no facilities (like restrooms) at the Quiraing, so plan accordingly.
• Local Respect: Remember that the Isle of Skye is home to many people. Drive carefully on the narrow roads, respect private property, and always be courteous to locals.

What to pack for the Quiraing walks Isle of Skye

This list should have you well-prepared for the Quiraing hike, ensuring your experience is memorable for the right reasons.

If you want more information on the exact gear I use, be sure to check out my day hike packing list here.

• Backpack: A comfortable daypack with padded straps.
• Walking Poles: Helpful for stability on uneven terrains and for descending.
• First Aid Kit: Include band-aids, antiseptic wipes, blister treatment, pain relievers, and any personal medications.
• Moisture-wicking Base Layer: Helps to draw sweat away from your body.
• Insulating Layer: A fleece or lightweight down jacket for warmth.
• Waterproof and Windproof Jacket: Skye weather can be unpredictable.
• Hiking Trousers or Leggings: Preferably water-resistant. See my pick of the best leggings for hikes.
• Waterproof trousers: For wet days.
• Hat and Gloves: Even in summer, the wind can be chilly.
• Hiking Boots or trail running shoes
• Hiking Socks: Woolen or synthetic for moisture-wicking and blister prevention.
• Spare Clothes: Especially socks, to change into if yours get wet. It’s a good idea to keep some in the boot of your car
• Water: At least 2 liters. Consider a hydration bladder or reusable water bottles.
• Snacks: Energy bars, nuts, dried fruits, and a sandwich or two for lunch.
• Mobile Phone and/or Garmin InReach: Fully charged, with emergency contact numbers saved.
• Portable Charger: To ensure your phone doesn’t run out of battery.
• Headlamp: In case the hike takes longer than anticipated or for early starts/late returns.
• Sunglasses and Sunscreen: The sun can be intense, especially during summer.
• Bug Spray: Particularly midge repellent; midges in Scotland can be a nuisance in warmer months. Smidge is the best for Scotland.
• Pocket Knife or Multi-tool: Always handy for various tasks.
• Reusable Rain Cover: For your backpack.
• Water Filter or Purification Tablets: If you decide to refill from natural sources. I use a Sawyer Squeeze.

Wild camping on the Quiraing Scotland

We spent the night on this trail as our first wild camping in Scotland experience and it was so good (if not a bit wet).

By wild camping near the Quiraing, you’ll get to enjoy the scenery with few people and just the sheep for company.

However, it’s essential to approach wild camping with respect and awareness.

In Scotland, the Right to Roam Act allows wild camping on most unenclosed land, but there are caveats to consider.

Here are some essential considerations when wild camping near the Quiraing:

• Environmental Impact: Practice “Leave No Trace” principles. Carry out all rubbish, use a camp stove instead of making open fires, and avoid camping on cultivated or farmlands.
• Respect for Others: Stay away from buildings, roads, and historic structures. Keep a low profile, aiming to be unobtrusive to both the landscape and any other visitors.
• Water Sources: Ensure you’re at least 30 meters away from lakes and streams to prevent contamination. Use biodegradable soap and dispose of wastewater responsibly.
• Safety: Weather on the Isle of Skye can be unpredictable. Be prepared for sudden changes, especially wind and rain. Know your exit routes and inform someone of your plans.
• Duration: Limit your stay to two or three nights in one place to minimize your impact.

Scotland’s Right to Roam – Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
In Scotland, you can go on to most land to enjoy the outdoors – as long as you behave responsibly, care for the environment and respect the interests of others. You can learn more about the Scotland Outdoor Access Code, and what it means for your activities here.

When is the best time to walk the Quiraing on Skye?

If you’re looking to do this walk on the Isle of Skye, then there are some seasons that I consider to be better than others in terms of weather and crowds. Below is a breakdown of what to expect.

Ultimately, you can do this year-round (as long as the Quiraing mountain pass is closed to ice/snow, which is not very common).

• Spring (March to May): Fewer tourists means the trails are quieter and temperatures are on the rise from the cold of winter, but still chilly, averaging between 5°C to 12°C. Expect a mix of rain showers and sunny spells.
• Summer (June to August): This is the peak tourist season, especially July and August. The paths can get crowded, especially between 11 am to 3 pm. It’s also the warmest time of year, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 18°C. However, rain is still a possibility, given Skye’s reputation for unpredictable weather.
• Autumn (September to November): There’s usually a decline in tourists, particularly by late October and November making for a more peaceful walk. Temperatures start to drop, ranging from 8°C to 15°C in September, and 4°C to 9°C by November. Expect autumnal rain showers and the occasional sunny, crisp day.
• Winter (December to February): During this season you’ll get the fewest tourists of the year, ensuring a serene experience. However, some facilities and businesses might be closed. The weather might be cold and unpredictable and temperatures hover around 1°C to 7°C, with the possibility of snow and frequent rain showers.

What is the Quiraing?

The Quiraing is a segment of rock that was created from huge landslides on the Isle of Skye’s Trotternish Peninsula.

The name ‘Quiraing’ comes from an Old Norse phrase Kví Rand, which roughly means ‘Round Fold’.

The continual land shifts around here have led to some super unique and interesting rock formations and three of them that you’ll see on this walk have their own names.

• The Needle: This towering 120 ft high pinnacle, stands upright amid a bed of scree.
• The Prison: Looks a little like an ancient medieval prison and stands to the right of the trail.
• The Table: Distinct for its flat grassy terrain, it has detached from the mountain’s peak over time.

How to get to the Quiraing

The Quiraing is on Trotternish Loop Isle of Skye about 40 minutes from Portree which is one of the main towns on the Isle of Skye.

Use the road that runs between Uig and Staffin to get there but note that this can be closed in winter and during bad weather.

Quiraing Hike Parking

While there is quite a large parking lot for the Quiraing hike, it can get busy during holidays and summer weekends.

If it’s full, I recommend coming back later. You could head down to check out An Corran Beach or Kealt Rock and Mealt Falls.

Parking costs £3 for 3 hours or £5 for 6 hours.

If you’re doing the full Quiraing circuit, I’d recommend giving yourself 6 hours so that you’re not rushing to come down and can take your time to enjoy the views.

You can pay using the RingGo App with the code 23484.

FAQs about the Quiraing walk

Final thoughts on the Quiraing walk

The Quiraing walk on the Isle of Skye gives you some of the most incredible views of Skye and the ocean.

It’s one of the most beautiful landscapes in Scotland to see and it’s a relatively easy walk as well, compared to some of the mountain hikes nearby.

If you’re looking for more easy walks in Skye, be sure to check out the walk to the Fairy Pools further south, or Fairy Glen just to the West of the Quiraing need Uig.

And, if you want more ideas for your Scotland trip, be sure to check out these guides to a weekend road trip in Glencoe and the Scottish Highlands, what to do in Inverness without a car, the best free things to do in Inverness, what to do in the Cairngorms National Park, the best things to do on Loch Ness, and this guide to one day in Edinburgh, or the best things to do in Glasgow.

Last Updated on March 11, 2024 by Hannah