Driving to the Trailheads of Assynt

Exploring the rugged beauty of Assynt in the Scottish Highlands is a dream for hikers, but reaching its trailheads requires careful planning. Most access roads are single-track with passing places, demanding patience and attention. From iconic peaks like Stac Pollaidh to the remote majesty of Ben More Assynt, driving to these locations is part of the adventure. Make sure to fuel up in Ullapool or Lochinver before heading out, as petrol stations are scarce.

Driving to the Trailheads of Assynt

Stac Pollaidh: The car park for this popular short hike is located off the A835 on a single-track road (grid ref: NC 175 140). Parking is free but limited, so arrive early to secure a spot. The route to the summit is a manageable 612m, offering stunning views.

Suilven: Two trailheads provide access to this iconic 731m peak. At Inverkirkaig, there’s a small layby on the single-track road from Lochinver (grid ref: NC 215 218), perfect for the longer 12km approach via the River Kirkaig. Alternatively, start at the pay-and-display car park near Glencanisp Lodge (grid ref: NC 215 130). This car park is standard for the 10km circuit and is also accessed via a single-track road.

Ben More Assynt: Begin your ascent of this 884m peak from the free layby parking near the Inchnadamph Hotel (grid ref: NC 257 218). This location is also a starting point for the Cape Wrath Trail section, which includes ~1109m of ascent over ~25km to the south top.

Quinag: The trailhead for Quinag is located at Skiag Bridge on the A894 (grid ref: NC 251 331). This car park is clearly marked on maps and lies on the NC500 route, accessed via windy single-track sections of the Drumbeg road. Quinag’s three peaks offer a rewarding day out.

Canisp: Use the same layby near Inchnadamph Hotel (grid ref: NC 257 218) as Ben More Assynt. Paths from here link to Suilven routes, allowing flexibility for exploring Assynt’s dramatic landscapes.

Driving in Assynt requires extra time due to narrow roads and occasional sheep crossings. Satnav can be unreliable on minor roads, so carry paper maps like the Harvey Assynt or OS alternatives. Always park responsibly to avoid blocking passing places, and check MWIS for weather updates.

Key Takeaways

• Fuel up in Ullapool or Lochinver before heading out.
• All trailheads are accessed via single-track roads with passing places.
• Arrive early at popular spots like Stac Pollaidh to secure parking.
• Carry paper maps, as satnav can be unreliable in Assynt.
• Respect local communities by parking responsibly.

For more on this area, see our guide to Quinag.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is parking free in Assynt? While many trailheads, such as Stac Pollaidh and Ben More Assynt at Inchnadamph, offer free parking, some locations like Glencanisp Lodge for Suilven have pay-and-display car parks. Check individual trailhead details before planning your trip.

Are the roads single track? Yes, most roads in Assynt are single-track with passing places. Drive slowly, often under 40km/h, and allow extra time for overtaking and occasional delays caused by livestock.

Where can I get petrol? Petrol stations are limited in Assynt. The closest options are in Ullapool or Lochinver. Ensure your tank is full before venturing into the region, as there are no stations between these towns.