Ben Stack: the Pyramid of Sutherland

Ben Stack, often referred to as the pyramid of Sutherland, is a striking and iconic mountain nestled in the far northwest of Scotland. With its unmistakable shape rising above the surrounding lochans and rugged terrain, this Corbett stands at 720 metres tall and offers a rewarding climb for hillwalkers seeking breathtaking views and a true sense of isolation. Despite its moderate difficulty, Ben Stack’s steep ascent and remote location make it a memorable challenge. Whether you’re exploring Scotland’s Corbetts or simply passing through Sutherland, this short but demanding walk is well worth the effort.

Unlike many Scottish mountains, Ben Stack is not part of a larger range, which only highlights its sense of solitude. From its summit, the panoramic vistas stretch across the wild beauty of Sutherland to the Atlantic Ocean beyond. The quartzite peaks of Foinaven and Arkle gleam in the distance, and the shimmering waters of Loch Stack lie directly below, creating a scene of unparalleled grandeur. Ben Stack is not only a destination but an experience that perfectly encapsulates the rugged splendour of the northwest Highlands.

Route Overview

Ben Stack is a relatively short walk compared to many other Corbetts, but its steep slopes and rough terrain demand a good level of fitness. The route follows the southeast ridge and involves around 8km (5 miles) of walking, with an elevation gain of approximately 700 metres. Most hillwalkers will complete the climb in about 3.5 to 4 hours depending on their pace and conditions. While there is a faint track at the start, much of the walk is over boggy and pathless terrain, so sturdy, waterproof boots are essential.

The ascent begins at a small roadside parking area just off the A838 near Achfary. From there, the walk climbs relentlessly up towards the summit via Leathad na Stioma, passing a telephone antenna early on. The ridge itself is exposed and winds can be strong, making clear weather highly advisable for both safety and enjoyment. The summit offers uninterrupted views across Sutherland’s lochs, rivers and mountains, making the effort truly worthwhile.

The Walk

Stage 1: Starting Out

The walk begins at a small parking area on the A838, located at grid reference NC 296401 about half a mile north of Achfary. From here, a faint track leads across boggy ground towards the southeast ridge of Ben Stack. The initial section is straightforward but requires careful footing due to the wet and uneven terrain. As you ascend, you’ll pass a telephone antenna on your left, which acts as a useful landmark for navigation in the early stages.

Stage 2: The Ridge

Once you reach the ridge itself, the climb becomes steeper and more sustained. The terrain is mostly pathless and comprises rough, grassy slopes interspersed with rocky sections. Navigation is relatively easy in clear weather, as the ridge provides a natural line to follow. However, the ground remains challenging, requiring both sure-footedness and determination. The exposed nature of the ridge means that strong winds are common, so be prepared for gusty conditions.

Stage 3: The Summit

The summit of Ben Stack is marked by a trig point, but the true summit lies slightly beyond on a nearby rocky outcrop. The views from the top are nothing short of spectacular. To the north, the quartzite peaks of Foinaven and Arkle dominate the skyline, while Loch Stack shimmers directly below. On a clear day, the Atlantic Ocean can be seen on the western horizon, adding to the sense of remoteness and scale. Take your time to soak in the scenery before retracing your steps back down the ridge.

Getting There and Parking

Ben Stack is located in Sutherland, between Laxford Bridge and Scourie. The starting point for the walk is a small parking area on the A838, just north of Achfary. The grid reference is NC 296401. While the parking area is modest, it is sufficient for a few vehicles. Public transport options are extremely limited, with infrequent bus services stopping at Achfary. If you’re travelling by car, the A838 offers access to this remote part of the Highlands, and the drive itself is a scenic experience.

Key Takeaways

• Difficulty: Moderate but steep, requiring good fitness.
• Distance: Approximately 8km (5 miles) out-and-back.
• Terrain: Boggy ground, pathless ridge and rocky sections.
• Views: Panoramic vistas of Sutherland’s lochs, rivers and mountains.
• Best conditions: Clear weather for navigation and enjoyment.
• Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof boots are essential.

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is Ben Stack?

Ben Stack is considered moderately difficult due to its steep and sustained ascent. While the distance is relatively short, the boggy and pathless terrain makes the climb challenging. It is best suited to walkers with reasonable fitness and experience.

How long does it take?

The walk typically takes 3.5 to 4 hours to complete, depending on pace and weather conditions. This includes both the ascent and descent, though time may vary based on experience and fitness.

Where do you start?

The starting point is a small roadside parking area on the A838, located about half a mile north of Achfary. The grid reference for the car park is NC 296401.

What is the view from Ben Stack like?

From the summit, you’ll enjoy stunning panoramic views across Sutherland. Highlights include the quartzite peaks of Foinaven and Arkle, the shimmering waters of Loch Stack, and on clear days, the distant Atlantic Ocean. The scenery is a true reward for the effort of the climb.

For those interested in exploring more of Scotland’s Corbetts, be sure to check out our Corbetts guide. If you’re seeking other iconic hills in the region, consider tackling Ben Hope, Suilven, or Foinaven, all of which offer unique challenges and spectacular views.