3,318 ft · Western Highlands, Scotland
The Saddle
The Saddle is a 3,318 ft peak in the Western Highlands, Scotland. The standard route is the Forcan Ridge: 6 mi, 3,220 ft of gain, Class 4.
The Saddle at a glance
- Elevation3,318 ft1,011 m
- RouteForcan RidgeClass 4
- Distance6 mi3,220 ft gain
- Time8 – 10 hrsHard effort
- SeasonMay – Sep
- RangeWestern HighlandsScotland
Climbing the Forcan Ridge
From Shiel Bridge, drive east up Glen Shiel on the A87. Start from the Glen Shiel layby west of Malagan Bridge, cross the road and take the stalkers path zigzagging up to the col below Meallan Odhar. The Forcan Ridge rises ahead: an exposed Grade 2 scramble (Class 4) over knife-edge sections, with an awkward down-climb beyond Sgurr na Forcan that can be bypassed by a gully or rake. Walkers can avoid the ridge by following a drystone dyke to Bealach Coire Mhalagain. Usually combined with Sgurr na Sgine. Choose a dry, calm day, as the rock is slippery when wet.
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
Helmet
Harness
Rope
Belay Device
Carabiners
What to watch for
- Knife-edge ridge
- Steep exposure
- Slippery terrain
- High winds
Quests with The Saddle
MunrosPeaks near The Saddle
Frequently asked questions
How tall is The Saddle?
The Saddle is 3,318 feet (1,011 m) tall. It is in the Western Highlands, Scotland.
How does The Saddle rank among the Munros?
At 3,318 feet, The Saddle is the 118th highest of the 282 Munros. The highest is Ben Nevis.
How hard is it to climb The Saddle?
The Forcan Ridge is Class 4, which means exposed scrambling, where many parties bring a rope. Yak rates the overall effort hard: 6 miles with 3,220 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to climb The Saddle?
Most people take 8 – 10 hours round trip on the Forcan Ridge, covering 6 miles with 3,220 feet of elevation gain. That is a long day, so start before dawn and set a turnaround time.
Is The Saddle dangerous to climb?
It has real risks: exposed sections where a fall would be serious and fast-changing weather. Go with an experienced partner, wear a helmet, test holds before you trust them and turn back if the rock is wet or icy.
Do you need a rope to climb The Saddle?
Most parties bring one. The Forcan Ridge is Class 4, and the gear list includes a rope, harness and belay device.
When is the best time to climb The Saddle?
The usual climbing window is May to September. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.
Climb The Saddle 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