The Old Man of Storr is a pinnacle of dark rock standing about fifty metres tall among a landscape of crags and fallen towers on the Trotternish ridge, north of Portree. It is the best-known walk on Skye and one of the most photographed views in Scotland. The path starts from a large car park beside the A855 and climbs through forest edge and open hillside, first on a firm gravel track and then on rougher steps and ground, to the foot of the rock. The island's own walking guide gives the route as 3.8 km there and back, with about forty-five minutes up and thirty to forty minutes down at a steady pace. The Trotternish landscape was shaped by a vast ancient landslip, which is why the cliffs and pinnacles look so dramatic. In winter the walk is quieter and often more atmospheric, with snow on the high ground and sea views opening below, but the weather can change in minutes.
The route
From the car park, which holds around 140 vehicles and has a toilet, the path goes through a gate and climbs steadily beside the plantation before swinging out onto the open slope. Several gates are double height to keep deer out, and walkers are asked to close them. The final section to the base of the pinnacle is steeper, with rough stone steps, and the top stretch can be muddy after rain.
There is a danger of rockfall at the higher levels, so stay on the path and do not scramble on the rock faces. The view from the lower slopes alone is very good, so turning back early is a perfectly good decision if conditions worsen.
Winter conditions
The isleofskye.com walking guide advises checking the weather on the day, since mist can descend quickly, and wearing sturdy footwear and clothing for changing conditions. In November and December daylight is short, so aim to be on the path soon after sunrise and back before the light fades.
Wind on the exposed upper slope can be fierce, hats and gloves are wise and a head torch is a sensible backup. Parking costs a few pounds for up to six hours and is paid by coins or contactless card, and you should never park on grass verges or in passing places.
Making the most of it
The car park is about 6.8 miles north of Portree, so the walk pairs naturally with a morning in town, or with the drive on to Kilt Rock and the Quiraing. Many Skye day tours include a stop here, though often a short one, so independent travellers get more time. If the pinnacle is cloaked in cloud, wait a little, because it can clear quickly. Photographers should try the golden hour light on the cliffs, and everyone should look back at the sea views on the way down.
What to expect
The experience
A self-guided out-and-back hill walk of 3.8 km on gravel and stone steps from a roadside car park to the foot of the rock pinnacle.
Best time
A dry, clear winter morning soon after sunrise, when the path is quiet and the light is low.
How long
About 1 hour 15 minutes at a steady pace without stops, so allow two hours or more with photographs.
Tips
Check the forecast, wear boots, close the deer gates behind you, stay on the path because of rockfall and pay for parking by coins or card.
Quick picks
- Best for
- First-time visitors who want Skye's signature scenery without a hard mountain day.
- Families
- Doable for fit children with good shoes, but there are steep steps and mud, and the rock faces are not safe to climb.
- Couples
- Walk up early for the light, then return to Portree for a long lunch.
- Pair with
- Portree, Kilt Rock and the Quiraing, all on the same northern loop.
- Time needed
- Two hours on the path, plus the drive from Portree.
Good questions
How hard is the Old Man of Storr walk?+
It is medium length and of average difficulty, with a firm gravel path and some steep stone steps near the top. Mud and mist make it harder in winter.
How long does it take?+
About an hour and a quarter at a steady pace there and back without stops. Most people take longer for photographs.
Is there a charge for parking?+
Yes, a modest fee for up to six hours, paid by coins or contactless card. Do not park on verges or in passing places.
Is it safe in winter?+
It can be, on a clear day with proper boots and clothing. Mist, wind and short daylight are the main risks, and rockfall is a danger at higher levels.
Can I climb the Old Man itself?+
No, stay on the path and keep off the rock faces, because rockfall is a risk and the pinnacle is fragile.
