THE CAPE WRATH TRAIL

Widely regarded as the toughest backpacking trail in Britain, the Cape Wrath Trail is a 3-week, 200-mile epic from Fort William to the most north-westerly point of the mainland, crossing real wilderness and rugged terrain. Winding through beautiful glens, lochs and mountains, it takes you to some of Scotland’s finest country including Morar, Knoydart, Torridon and Assynt, before a spectacular finale at Cape Wrath.

The inspiring sights range from the deep blue mirrors of hidden lochs to the unkempt expanse of mountain and moor, to the final cliff-top view of pewter sea. To reach them you will travel on ancient drover paths, through forested glens and across quintessential Highland bogs.

The Cape Wrath Trail offers an unparalleled level of freedom and adventure to an experienced trekker; with flexible routes, camping and days spent in inaccessible wilderness.

A cautionary note – it is with some justification that this trail is regarded as Britain’s toughest. It crosses rough, unforgiving country that should not be underestimated. There are no pack-carrying services and often there are not even any clear paths, only bogs and leg-sapping terrain. Limited re-supply points require self-sufficiency for much of the journey, and there will be stretches during which you’ll need to carry many days’ supplies. This is absolutely not a route for beginners or those unfamiliar with remote, rugged mountain areas.

This guidebook describes the route in detail over 14 stages with information about all the facilities and accommodation options en route, as well as guidance on preparation, planning and navigation.

14 main stages described, with 4 alternative options
illustrated with OS map extracts and profiles
includes full information about bothies along the route
The printed guide works in tandem with http://capewrathtrailguide.org.

Seasons
April, May and June are ideal months to walk the trail. September and October are also good, but there may be diversions due to deer stalking and military operations at the cape. In July and August the days are superbly long and the weather can be fine, but midges will be in full flight. The limited accommodation along the trail may also be booked at this time of year
Centres
Fort William, Glenfinnan, Barisdale, Kinloch Hourn, Shiel Bridge, Strathcarron, Kinlochewe, Dundonnell, Ullapool, Bridge of Orchy, Inchnadamph, Kylesku, Rhiconich, Kinlochbervie, Durness
Difficulty
The Cape Wrath Trail is regarded as the toughest long distance backpacking trail in Britain. It crosses remote, sparsely populated, potentially dangerous mountain country. There are no pack carrying services and often there are not even any clear paths. Limited re-supply points require self sufficiency for many days together. Not a route for beginners or those unfamiliar with remote, rugged mountain areas
Must See
Glenfinnan monument and viaduct, the gloriously remote rough bounds of Knoydart, Barisdale, Forcan ridge, Falls of Glomach, Beinn Eighe, Lochan Fada, Shenavall, An Teallach, Glen Douchary, Glen Oykel, Ben More, Glencoul, Arkle, Foinaven, Sandwood Bay, Cape Wrath lighthouse