Clisham (An Cliseam) direct route

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Summary

This steep but rapid ascent of Clisham (An Cliseam in Gaelic and on OS maps) is rewarded with superb views over mountain and sea. The approach is boggy and the ascent steep; there is no path at first, higher up a clear path winds a route through the boulders.

Grade (key)

Bog Factor (key)

3.5/5

Rating

Terrain

Straightforward hill climb, boggy in places lower down, rocky higher up.

Public Transport

Bus between Tarbert and Stornoway.

Start

Car park on A859 10km north of Tarbert at Abhainn Mharaig. Open in Google Maps.

Hillwalking in Winter

Please note that hillwalking when there is snow lying requires an ice-axe, crampons and the knowledge, experience and skill to use them correctly. All route descriptions and difficulties given here are for summer conditions. See our Winter Skills page for basic information on the essential skills, techniques and knowledge needed for winter hillwalking.

Walk Statistics

Distance: 5.25km / 3.25 miles
Time (summer conditions): 3.5 - 4 hours
Ascent: 629m (Profile)
Start Grid Ref: NB173057

Summits Climbed

Corbett: Clisham

Mapping and GPS

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Stage 1

The parking area on the west side of the A859 north of Tarbert, before the Maraig turn off if heading north, is sited where the Abhainn Mharaig flows down from the mountain (Am Cliseam in Gaelic). Although there is a path initially on both sides of the water, take the one on the south (left as you face Clisham) as this continues higher up the mountain. The path can be boggy near the start but follows the water upstream with good views of the cone-shaped peak ahead.

Stage 2

Once the watercourse is left behind the path peters out. Continue heading directly uphill, avoiding the boggier areas as much as possible. Good views open up behind of Todun above Maraig and the horseshoe of steep-sided hills that dominate just north of Tarbert.

Stage 3

Higher up as the ridge narrows the ground underfoot becomes drier and a clear path becomes visible. Although eroded in places, the path weaves between rocky sections and boulders to climb steeply with no difficulties.

Stage 4

Once the gradient eases the first section of rocky summit ridge can be bypassed on the left side. Soon the summit trig point is reached, completely enclosed by an huge shelter cairn.

Stage 5

The views here are spectacular taking in the peaks of the Clisham horseshoe route and much of the Harris coastline. Unless embarking on a long route round the horseshoe, the return is back the same way.