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3,369 ft · Western Highlands, Scotland

Sgùrr na Ciste Duibhe

Sgùrr na Ciste Duibhe is a 3,369 ft peak in the Western Highlands, Scotland. The standard route is the Five Sisters Ridge from Bealach an Lapain: 5 mi, 3,510 ft of gain, Class 2.

Sgùrr na Ciste Duibhe in the Western Highlands, Scotland

Sgùrr na Ciste Duibhe at a glance

  • Elevation3,369 ft1,026 m
  • RouteFive Sisters Ridge from Bealach an LapainClass 2
  • Distance5 mi3,510 ft gain
  • Time5 – 7 hrsModerate effort
  • SeasonMay – Sep
  • RangeWestern HighlandsScotland

Climbing the Five Sisters Ridge from Bealach an Lapain

From Invergarry or Kyle of Lochalsh, follow the A87 into Glen Shiel. Start from the Glen Shiel car park by the battle information board and climb a steep, boggy path beside the forestry, then zigzag up to Bealach an Lapain. Turn west along the ridge over Sgurr nan Spainteach, down-scrambling a short rocky step, then cross a split double crest to the summit (Class 2). Return the same way, or continue on the Five Sisters traverse with Sgurr na Carnach and Sgurr Fhuaran. The double crest is confusing in mist, so carry a map and compass.

Gear and hazards

What to bring

  • Backpack (25–35 L)
  • Hiking Boots
  • Water
  • Offline Maps
  • Headlamp
  • Satellite Communicator
  • Whistle
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Sun Hat
  • Midlayer
  • Insulated Jacket
  • Hardshell Jacket
  • Warm Hat
  • Buff
  • Midweight Gloves
  • Trekking Poles
  • GPS Device
  • Power Bank
  • Water Filter
  • First-Aid Kit
  • Emergency Bivy

What to watch for

  • Route-finding difficulty
  • Low visibility
  • High winds
  • Slippery terrain

Quests with Sgùrr na Ciste Duibhe

Peaks near Sgùrr na Ciste Duibhe

  1. Sgùrr na Càrnach

    Sgùrr na Càrnach

    3,287 ft · 0.7 mi away

  2. Sgùrr Fhuaran

    Sgùrr Fhuaran

    3,506 ft · 1.1 mi away

  3. Sàileag

    Sàileag

    3,136 ft · 2.1 mi away

  4. Creag nan Damh

    Creag nan Damh

    3,012 ft · 2.3 mi away

Frequently asked questions

How tall is Sgùrr na Ciste Duibhe?

Sgùrr na Ciste Duibhe is 3,369 feet (1,026 m) tall. It is in the Western Highlands, Scotland.

How does Sgùrr na Ciste Duibhe rank among the Munros?

At 3,369 feet, Sgùrr na Ciste Duibhe is the 104th highest of the 282 Munros. The highest is Ben Nevis.

How hard is it to hike Sgùrr na Ciste Duibhe?

The Five Sisters Ridge from Bealach an Lapain is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort moderate: 5 miles with 3,510 feet of elevation gain.

How long does it take to hike Sgùrr na Ciste Duibhe?

Most people take 5 – 7 hours round trip on the Five Sisters Ridge from Bealach an Lapain, covering 5 miles with 3,510 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.

Can a beginner hike Sgùrr na Ciste Duibhe?

Usually, if you are fit. The Five Sisters Ridge from Bealach an Lapain is a common first summit for hikers ready for 5 – 7 hours on their feet. Bring layers, food and water, and check the weather before you start.

When is the best time to hike Sgùrr na Ciste Duibhe?

The usual hiking window is May to September. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.

Climb Sgùrr na Ciste Duibhe with Yak

Plan your route on a topo map, check the summit forecast, then log your climb and see what is left on your list