A straightforward circuit visiting the moorland and impressive escarpments on the east side of Waternish.
Summary
NOTE: Forest felling works have damaged the later part of this walk and it has been reported that it is currently impassable. Good tracks are followed by a clear but soggy moorland path, then excellent cliff-top walking.
Terrain
NG269593
Grid ref
5km/3 miles
Distance
Grade
Road end at Gillen, Waternish.
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1. NOTE: Forest felling works have damaged the later part of this walk and it has been reported that it is currently impassable.. Park near the road end at Gillen, taking care not to obstruct the turning area or any passing spaces. Go through the gate at the end of the road, and continue on the track across the fields ahead, ignoring two turns on the left and passing through a further gate. The track soon enters forestry plantations. Ignore a turning to the left at an old quarry and instead continue straight ahead on the track. Soon the track emerges from the forest and runs along the edge of the trees with open ground to the right. Just before the track starts to descend, turn left on another track back into the forest. This climbs gently and emerges from the trees near another quarry.
2. The track now climbs up the open moorland with improving views back to Dunvegan Head. From the highest point, excellent views ahead are revealed of the Trotternish Peninsula. Turn left here (a wooden signpost reads 'Clifftop walk') onto a soggy but clear path across the moorland. The route is marked by occasional wooden stakes; the views are superb.
3. The path winds about the moor and descends a little before becoming dry underfoot once more and reaching the edge of Score Horan or Beinn an Sguirr cliffs. The views from here are excellent, down the steep cliffs and across the forest and seas far below to the Ascrib islands and Harris framed by the Waternish and Trotternish peninsulas. Turn left along the cliff edge, occasionally passing through the edge of the forestry. Look out for Golden Eagles along here.
4. Loch Losait bay can be seen far below down gulleys in the cliffs. After about a kilometre, the faint path emerges on a rough track once more. It is possible to visit Loch Losait bay from here by turning right on the track; otherwise, turn left. Turn right at a junction with another track two hundred metres on. This soon leads back to Gillen.
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