Thanks for all the nice comments. Had a few queries about the final obstacle so here is a link to a wild camp on Stac Pollaidh which also shows a route over the tricky scramble at the end , and also one of the finest sunrises I have ever witnessed :) : Link - ua-cam.com/video/dA5zlYliIPg/v-deo.html Take care all and thanks for watching Murray
Thats a great trip Murray. Its an awesome wee hill. Unfortunately not conducive to 3 dogs. I was up with friends there in April and I decided the dogs might take too many risks on the rocks, so we did Suilven instead. The views are awesome. Assynt is just amazing. Thanks for taking me to the summit with you, almost
Adding "spinny aroondy" to my vocabulary immediately. What a great walk and scramble, Murray. It does look like it should be higher than it is....perfect views, the stuff of dreams. Thanks for sharing.
Thr name Stac Pollaidh seems very familiar to me but I can't think why. The furthest north I've scrambled a hill is Ben nevis .Good job make looks great 👍🏼, and so does that chippy
Sorry, but I'm really pleased you haven't managed it either. I've been there countless times and never made it! I climb a bit too, and boulder to V6 and it's a V1 boulder at most, but those big drops stop me every time!
Walking, Hiking and camping used to be free in Scotland as passed by the Scottish Parliament until they licenced Loch Lomond and Trossachs Park to charge people for camping in the area they control thus taxing the people of Scotland for the Freedom to Roam, the area they control get's bigger every year. Time it was stopped and give us our right to roam back. Freedom for Indigenous Scots.
What a difference 40 years makes : comparing your lovely clear filming today, with only having W.A.Poucher b&w photos in a previous generation. This summit is a scrambler's playground.
Cracking wee mountain indeed, surprised you skipped the scramble though. Admittedly I didn't fancy the downclimb and opted for the wee chute/gully on the south side.
Thanks for a great wee video, Stac Pollaidh was a regular ascent for my Dad, brother and I on our holidays in Ullapool.... Took me back years and can't wait to take my son when he's a wee bit older 👍
Superb as always Murray, I can't wait to get back out, doing An Caisteal and Ben a Chroin next week so looking forward to it. It will be good practice on the bad step for future hikes
Thank you Murray for taking us to these fabulous places, I've said it before and I'll say it again why did they film Lord of the rings in New Zealand when Scotland is far more dramatic and cinematic, just my opinion.
Best wee mountain I was thinking you were going up my favourite Suilven! 🤣 Yes SP it is a great wee mountain and tougher than people think. Oh and that's a great wee chippy too! Must head that way again soon 🙂
Loved climbing this mountain, climbed SP the year we saw the pair of golden eagles on Beinn Sgritheall (I think you read my comment made on your video) Again we had an amazingly clear day and the views are amazing. Thank you for the videos they are brilliantly produced and bring back so many happy memories of my youth
Hi Murray, I believe your right about the social media influence on younger people to take up hiking. There are many young UA-camrs promoting the WHW and other trails and I have no doubt you have inspired many people of all ages to get out there. Love your videos 👍🥾
Having been up SP 4 times previously, it was only on my 5th that I managed to find the route up onto the ridge proper. I think initially it was that boulder you have to clamber around before heading up, that threw me off previously. 😂 Always love watching your videos Murray, keep them coming 👌🏻
Climbed this a few years ago and it was a brilliant wee mountain with spectacular views that stop you dead in your tracks as you gain height. Tough pull up from the car park though. Cheers Murray.
Hi Richard - I have a few pairs but have not done any reviews on them TBH. I always think about doing these videos but can never find the time. I will think about it if I have some weeks when I dont get out. I have revolution race, rab and jottnar trousers - all pretty decent :) Take care and thanks for watching Murray
Totally agree with you on Stac Pollaidh being the best wee mountain. I would say that Arthurs Seat is a close second. A very different setting from Assynt & gets overlooked due to its city setting. But in my opinion is great fun to climb, lots of different routes up and fantastic views.
Thanks Martin- we had great fun - my sons enjoying the scrambles - we will need to head back when he has some more experience and get to the true top ⛰👍 Take care and thanks for watching ATB Murray
Wow, wow, wow! What a view, but more than that, those rock formations at the summit are stunning. Those must be a photographers dream. A good case of why reaching the summit isn't always required.
So beautiful and a bit scary at the same time. Nice that there are paths but there are some quick drops too It’s so nice that your son is coming out with you I've never had a Scotch egg but they look really good Looking forward to the next video and take care 🇨🇦❤️
Two Assynt treats in 8 days, one of them being Stac Pollaidh.... wow!! I didn't dare venturing further than a bit above the bealach when I visited 3 years ago, my scrambling skills are limited I'm afraid, so it's great to see what this beauty looks like on the top "ridge". Thank you!
We had a great trip to Assynt - such a wonderful area and Stac Pollaidh is always worth a visit - even to the bealach - amazing views 👌 Take care and thanks for watching ATB Murray
I had plans to finally climb this beautiful wee mountain this spring, when traveling back to Scotland for the first time since 2019. Unfortunately, I had to cancel my trip at the last minute due to our very sick dog! Fortunately, he pulled through, and as they say, the mountain will still be there next time... Will have to plan another trip soon, as will you and your young man!
Amazing views yet again and for me a walkers paradise. The Loch below has some brilliant spots to park the van with a wee beach to cook food and chill!
The land of majestic beauty nice one for that thoroughly enjoyed it disappointed with your choice of scotch eggs I thought you might have gone to a butcher's nice to see your son enjoying it as well all the best be safe be lucky
Another great video Murray. When was this? I climbed it in May 2022 in beautiful weather. Clear blue skies and sunshine all the way up and down. I brought some friends up from down south especially to do this, as well as enjoy Harris and Lewis. A day none of us will ever forget and it was your videos which inspired me to have a go. I'm no climber but I wanted to see Suilven and we were spoiled with views all morning. I am considering climbing Suilven one day but I haven't decided the best way yet as I struggle walking too far because of a dodgy hip and lower back. ie. Whether to hike close by, camp and climb early morning or is there a bothy at the foot of it? Thanks for posting this video 👍
Went their with the old man and mum. When I was a young one. It's been over 30 years. I'm planning soloing it this year. What mount do you use for your DSLR to attach to rucksack strap?
Well you certainly got better weather than I did Murray. Your lad is obviously growing in confidence under his dad's guidance. Bet he'd enjoy the Horns of Alligin. ATB
Went up here and Sgùrr an Fhidhleir back in June. Didn't quite find the photo location I wanted on Stac P, due to arriving on the summit late evening. Really need to head back again, but this will no doubt help.
My wife and I climbed Stac Pollaidh in about 1985. It is a wonderful mountain because although it is not particularly high its isolation makes it look much higher. We too our dog Butch Harris (he was called Butch because he was a wimp and Harris because with a bit of imagination his fur looked like Harris Tweed. In 1989 we moved to Aotearoa (New Zealand) and Butch came with us. He passed away in 1996 and he is buried on our patch of land here. So a well travelled dog and a link to the Highlands.
Went up in similar but very much windier conditions in 2018 before the Harris LAMM. Didn't take my kids up either but my son would have made it with hindsight. One intrepid father had his young son and daughter on short ropes with full body harnesses on the ledges approaching the "mauvais pas". It was too windy to ask if they had summited, but I suspect not if approaching 'direct'. Still a great morning out and capped by a lone stag near the loch as we returned to the car.
Had an absolutely full day, finally got to watch your video. Those views from atop SP were the stuff of my dreams. You were certainly blessed with the weather too! Building those memories for your boy (and you too!) ATB
Fantastic, what a place. what a view... I've never had a scotch egg 🥚! although I recollect having a Scottish fried battered Mars bar a hundred years ago lol sorry to hear about your Queen she loved Scotland and probably watched your channel Murray ! the next best thing to being up in the hills.... ATB M ☘️
Hey whats the definition of a "class 3" scramble with the UK grading system? I'm trying to get an idea of how the rating system compares to the difficulty of scrambles in north America
Totally agree with you on Stac Pollaidh being the best wee mountain. I would say that Arthurs Seat is a close second. A very different setting from Assynt & gets overlooked due to its city setting. But in my opinion is great fun to climb, lots of different routes up and fantastic views.
I can see why you consider it the world’s greatest small mountain and looking at I have to agree. It looks like it was forged by giants. A truly amazing place without doubt. I’ll bet the wee man had a great time making his way up. And fish and chips at the end of the day, perfect. As always Murray, thanks for sharing and stay safe. ATB.
If you drop down about 6 foot to the left from the small col before the bad step there is a short diagonal chimney which allows you to bypass the step and is not exposed. It didnt seem anymore difficult technically than the step. I would say no more than a grade 2 or perhaps even grade 1 scramble
It's such a beautiful mountain. I climbed it for the first time last June with a friend (I watched your older video on it first). It was a hot Saturday and it was a bit like an outdoor gym! We got to the true summit by going through a chimney bit round the side of the Bad Step. I was much more nervous about going down the Bad Step than going up it so the chimney seemed the safest option.
It’s always more tricky coming down a climb thank going up - it’s a wonderful mountain - can’t wait to go back :) Take care and thanks for watching Murray
Absolutely brilliant Murray. The yellow and blue attire? Any significance in these dark days?. Climbed both however reckon Cobbler steals it.......thoughts?
I like my yellow and blue combo :) no other significance tbh :) bought lots of yellow stuff recently - went through a green phase for a while but the yellow trousers got me 😂👌👍
I too got to the bad step and, since I had no rope and it was windy and raining buckets, I said "sod that" and turned around. But I don't feel I really missed anything, as the walk along the ridge is utterly breathtaking and the summit is just a minor bonus.
I haven't been up since a kid, and then only the easy side (because it was a school trip). Seeing this makesr want to go back and scramble the other peak. He's right, it is the best little mountain in the world, Suilven comes a close second but this one is a rare gem
It is an absolutely stunning mountain! Those sandstone pillars in swirling mist are fantastic. I’ve only been once but what an impression this wee mountain made. Thanks Murray
Beautiful wee mountain with amazing views right enough. Did Stac Pollaidh 3 year ago but didnt attempt the West top. The carpark and road were stowed out when we passed a couple of weeks ago. I take it you are persevering with the troos.
Only using them on shorter trips TBH - not happy to use them on longer excursions 😂 have to get my money out of them (they are a standard go to now for my dog walks 😂👍
Watched quite a few of your adventures Murray but this one really gave me the “collywobbles”! My wife and I (both in our 60’s and not rock climbers) were up their a couple of years ago to the Coll and a little beyond. Not having consulted a guide book and having just a 1:50000 map I was not certain I could find a route up. Probably just as well!
It’s a confusing place so many ways to scramble about - great fun though 👍 my son has only done a bit of scrambling so we decided to leave the final scramble for another day - it’s not too hard but the consequences of a wrong foot placement are not great . It’s a wonderful place though 👌👍 Take care and thanks for watching Murray
Sometimes these smaller mountains are more rewarding because you get to see the greater landscape and bigger summits from a great vantage point. This is one of my favourites only beaten by the fabulous little Dun Caan on Raasay.
absolutely agree - Dun Caan on Raasay is one I have yet to visit - but seen the views from it on SAS program - rather spectacular :) Take care and thanks for watching ATB Murray
Loved Stac Pollaidh ever since watching your 2016 video years ago, and inspired me to hike up earlier this year. I’m trying to see whether you’ve made a video summitting Sgurr An Fhidhleir Murray across the way, as the views from there look amazing? Cheers Stuart👍🏻
This small mountain certainly packs a punch! It loses none of the drama of the bigger mountains despite its size. It is definitely on our list to hike up next time we visit this area of Scotland. Nice to see you out with your son again Murray, he seems to have been bitten by the climbing bug😊👍. Always a pleasure to watch your videos😊👌
The footage is amazing. Could I ask what camera you use? I have always had GoPro but they just don’t capture the scenery in the distance they way your camera has in this? Thanks
Hi Darren - in this video I was using the insta r and also my sony ZV1 and sony a7iii :) - hope that helps Take care and thanks for watching ATB Murray
Three years ago we climbed up here and were lost in the clouds, last month we followed the weather closer and made it to the basic part. Views are truly fantastic, must say though it was windy and cold so did not stay long but the memories will stay forever! Thanks for giving us a link to some great quality footage that we can watch whenever we like, do you sell your pics or have thought of doing a Scottish Mountains highlights DVD? We would happily pay for something like this...
In my opinion one of the most beautiful sights in the highlands, stunning beauty. Maybe the Torridon mountains are strong contenders. I hope I will be able to get there next may. I‘m aged 63 now and I‘m afraid that my knees will not be able to climb these mountains much longer… thank you very much for these impressions. Kind regards from Germany!
I climbed to the West Summit last month. Every one else seemed to be satisfied with the lower East Summit. Have to say - after reading all the scary warnings beforehand - I was quite full of trepidation. However, when I came face to face with it - I just stayed calm and focused - and found it was straightforward. I'm not being macho, I'm 63, but have quite a lot of rockclimbing experience..and conditions were hot and dry, and the pitch had good holds. If climbed straight up from the notch - even if you slipped off - you'd only slither back down. The main issue was being assailed by a swarm of large flies as I reached the summit! Descending was straightforward (just need to be steady and make sure you follow the sloping ledges back down); and, just to psychologically 'master' the tricky step, I climbed it again - up the alternative ascent route up a chimney down to the left - and descended the standard route again. A brilliant feeling to have conquered my pre-summit anxiety and to have an amazing mountain all to myself.
Did rock climbing in my youth. Bit of smug pride when I casually clamber onto the last summit and others turn back :). Great vid again. And agree, views are amazing.
Was that a childs portion from the chippy, where were the mushy peas, how much did it cost? What a place to leave a bad step, need to send a strongly worded letter to Health & Safety at the Scottish Parliament. Good work with the filming and getting the lad out and about, bet he hates it. No doubt desperate to get to a gaming machine!!
Thanks for all the nice comments. Had a few queries about the final obstacle so here is a link to a wild camp on Stac Pollaidh which also shows a route over the tricky scramble at the end , and also one of the finest sunrises I have ever witnessed :) :
Link - ua-cam.com/video/dA5zlYliIPg/v-deo.html
Take care all and thanks for watching
Murray
Thats a great trip Murray. Its an awesome wee hill. Unfortunately not conducive to 3 dogs. I was up with friends there in April and I decided the dogs might take too many risks on the rocks, so we did Suilven instead. The views are awesome. Assynt is just amazing. Thanks for taking me to the summit with you, almost
Mmmm fish and chips from the Ullapool chippy is top notch.
Adding "spinny aroondy" to my vocabulary immediately. What a great walk and scramble, Murray. It does look like it should be higher than it is....perfect views, the stuff of dreams. Thanks for sharing.
Thr name Stac Pollaidh seems very familiar to me but I can't think why. The furthest north I've scrambled a hill is Ben nevis .Good job make looks great 👍🏼, and so does that chippy
The “usual way” used to be up the front but erosion has necessitated its closure. In fact the back route is the more impressive I think.
I agree, it's my favourite small mountain too. I found coming down the bad step much harder than getting up, but I'm still in one piece
Absolutely- always more tricky going up than coming down - next time I’ll take the wee man to the top with a rope in tow 👌👌👍👍
It wasn't too bad going up but it was tricky getting off the summit. Nothing like a bit of anxiety to liven up the day!
Ohh I made it up in 2016 I crossed over from another valley … I remember having a lovely cuppa up top!
Sorry, but I'm really pleased you haven't managed it either. I've been there countless times and never made it! I climb a bit too, and boulder to V6 and it's a V1 boulder at most, but those big drops stop me every time!
Walking, Hiking and camping used to be free in Scotland as passed by the Scottish Parliament until they licenced Loch Lomond and Trossachs Park to charge people for camping in the area they control thus taxing the people of Scotland for the Freedom to Roam, the area they control get's bigger every year. Time it was stopped and give us our right to roam back. Freedom for Indigenous Scots.
What a difference 40 years makes : comparing your lovely clear filming today, with only having W.A.Poucher b&w photos in a previous generation.
This summit is a scrambler's playground.
Cracking wee mountain indeed, surprised you skipped the scramble though. Admittedly I didn't fancy the downclimb and opted for the wee chute/gully on the south side.
A lovely video Murray your lad must be loving the mountains well put together well described top man pal 👏👏👏🙌🙌👍
If you slither down the gully to the left you can crawl under the bad step🤘
Thanks Murray for the video, amazing as always 😅
Thanks for a great wee video, Stac Pollaidh was a regular ascent for my Dad, brother and I on our holidays in Ullapool.... Took me back years and can't wait to take my son when he's a wee bit older 👍
Superb as always Murray, I can't wait to get back out, doing An Caisteal and Ben a Chroin next week so looking forward to it. It will be good practice on the bad step for future hikes
Thank you Murray for taking us to these fabulous places, I've said it before and I'll say it again why did they film Lord of the rings in New Zealand when Scotland is far more dramatic and cinematic, just my opinion.
Best wee mountain I was thinking you were going up my favourite Suilven! 🤣 Yes SP it is a great wee mountain and tougher than people think. Oh and that's a great wee chippy too! Must head that way again soon 🙂
Such a wonderful area Assynt and so many great great mountains :):) ⛰⛰👍👌
I have to agree Suilvern is like some intergalactic spaceship from a far and from every angle it's the most distinguished Mountain in Scotland.
Loved climbing this mountain, climbed SP the year we saw the pair of golden eagles on Beinn Sgritheall (I think you read my comment made on your video) Again we had an amazingly clear day and the views are amazing. Thank you for the videos they are brilliantly produced and bring back so many happy memories of my youth
It’s a great mountain Bill - always a joy to witness golden eagles for sure - a special sight 👌👍
Take care and thanks for watching
ATB
Murray
Hi Murray, I believe your right about the social media influence on younger people to take up hiking. There are many young UA-camrs promoting the WHW and other trails and I have no doubt you have inspired many people of all ages to get out there. Love your videos 👍🥾
Having been up SP 4 times previously, it was only on my 5th that I managed to find the route up onto the ridge proper. I think initially it was that boulder you have to clamber around before heading up, that threw me off previously. 😂
Always love watching your videos Murray, keep them coming 👌🏻
What a fantastic mountain and spectacular views! You live in a paradise Murray ,feel jealous ;) thanks for posting as always lovely to watch
Climbed this a few years ago and it was a brilliant wee mountain with spectacular views that stop you dead in your tracks as you gain height. Tough pull up from the car park though. Cheers Murray.
Sutherland is the most beautiful part of Scotland for me
Excellent Vlog Murray! It’s next on my Photography Locations on Assynt with a sunset and sunrise.
The stacks look Amazing! 👍
Bucket list! Thanks for the positivity Murray.
Thanks Murray for all the wonderful videos. I’m interested in what hiking trousers you use. Do you talk about them anywhere?
Richard
Hi Richard - I have a few pairs but have not done any reviews on them TBH. I always think about doing these videos but can never find the time. I will think about it if I have some weeks when I dont get out. I have revolution race, rab and jottnar trousers - all pretty decent :)
Take care and thanks for watching
Murray
I agree best wee mountain! I was blown away with how spectacular this hike was and the surrounding area! Unbelievable! 👍
Totally agree with you on Stac Pollaidh being the best wee mountain. I would say that Arthurs Seat is a close second. A very different setting from Assynt & gets overlooked due to its city setting. But in my opinion is great fun to climb, lots of different routes up and fantastic views.
Arthurs seat is a great wee hill too - had a few fine hikes up there :)
Thanks for watching
ATB
Murray
What a great education for young Lewis….from a great teacher ( and father) keep them coming Murray 🏴🥃🏴🥾🥾🥾🥾
Thanks Martin- we had great fun - my sons enjoying the scrambles - we will need to head back when he has some more experience and get to the true top ⛰👍
Take care and thanks for watching
ATB
Murray
Wow, wow, wow! What a view, but more than that, those rock formations at the summit are stunning. Those must be a photographers dream. A good case of why reaching the summit isn't always required.
Thanks Julian - it certainly is a photographers paradise - wonder what the weather will be like up here in October 🤔🤔👍👍
@@ScotlandsMountains I'm so not trying to get my hopes up! But lets face it, Scotland is stunning in all conditions....well, most conditions lol
Glad you post video of these climbs as wild horses couldn't drag me up there 😱
So beautiful and a bit scary at the same time.
Nice that there are paths but there are some quick drops too
It’s so nice that your son is coming out with you
I've never had a Scotch egg but they look really good
Looking forward to the next video and take care 🇨🇦❤️
Two Assynt treats in 8 days, one of them being Stac Pollaidh.... wow!! I didn't dare venturing further than a bit above the bealach when I visited 3 years ago, my scrambling skills are limited I'm afraid, so it's great to see what this beauty looks like on the top "ridge". Thank you!
We had a great trip to Assynt - such a wonderful area and Stac Pollaidh is always worth a visit - even to the bealach - amazing views 👌
Take care and thanks for watching
ATB
Murray
I had plans to finally climb this beautiful wee mountain this spring, when traveling back to Scotland for the first time since 2019. Unfortunately, I had to cancel my trip at the last minute due to our very sick dog! Fortunately, he pulled through, and as they say, the mountain will still be there next time... Will have to plan another trip soon, as will you and your young man!
Absolutely Murray. The views up there are some of the best you'll find for 612m!
Amazing views yet again and for me a walkers paradise.
The Loch below has some brilliant spots to park the van with a wee beach to cook food and chill!
The land of majestic beauty nice one for that thoroughly enjoyed it disappointed with your choice of scotch eggs I thought you might have gone to a butcher's nice to see your son enjoying it as well all the best be safe be lucky
the eggs were not finished as they were pretty rotten!!lol Normal ones were far better!lol
Take care and thanks for watching
ATB
Murray
I really hope I get to those peaks some time...so far! ....you definitely seem to get the weather windows Murray 😋. Lovely trip.
Many thanks to you and Lewis for the fantastic views, magic
Thanks Harry - Twas much fun :) 👍👍
Father and son out in the “Wee” mountains. Nothing better. Great video.
Thanks…lovely video……inspiring ❤️
Fantastic footage. I hope the assistant helped picking up the cameras.
Haha - well now you mention it - he was deployed on camera retrieval a few times 😂😂👍
Another great video Murray. When was this? I climbed it in May 2022 in beautiful weather. Clear blue skies and sunshine all the way up and down. I brought some friends up from down south especially to do this, as well as enjoy Harris and Lewis. A day none of us will ever forget and it was your videos which inspired me to have a go. I'm no climber but I wanted to see Suilven and we were spoiled with views all morning. I am considering climbing Suilven one day but I haven't decided the best way yet as I struggle walking too far because of a dodgy hip and lower back. ie. Whether to hike close by, camp and climb early morning or is there a bothy at the foot of it? Thanks for posting this video 👍
Defintely my favourite small mountain anywhere.
Concur :) 👍
That and Tryfan
Went their with the old man and mum. When I was a young one. It's been over 30 years. I'm planning soloing it this year.
What mount do you use for your DSLR to attach to rucksack strap?
Hi - it’s a peak design carry clip - they are excellent 👍
Here is a video I did on it if of interest : ua-cam.com/video/RQFk5ExdQkQ/v-deo.htmlsi=QDpL9pBmqZojYYAS
Well you certainly got better weather than I did Murray. Your lad is obviously growing in confidence under his dad's guidance. Bet he'd enjoy the Horns of Alligin. ATB
He certainly my enjoys a wee bit of scrambling - it’s great for me to see 👍👍
Take care and thanks for watching
Murray
Beautiful Peak, thanks for sharing. New Subscriber from South of the Border.
Welcome to the channel Chris - hope you enjoy the videos :)
Thanks for watching
ATB
Murray
@@ScotlandsMountains Thank Murray.👍
Enjoyed Murray. Cracking area. Atb gordon
Thanks Gordon 👍
Thanks for sharing a great watch and the chips look nice
Thanks for taking this o!e lady back to Stac Pollaidh after so many years. Many happy memories.
Went up here and Sgùrr an Fhidhleir back in June. Didn't quite find the photo location I wanted on Stac P, due to arriving on the summit late evening. Really need to head back again, but this will no doubt help.
As always, thank you for taking us all on these mountain hikes! Love them! 🥰👍
Great video again, please keep them coming.
My wife and I climbed Stac Pollaidh in about 1985. It is a wonderful mountain because although it is not particularly high its isolation makes it look much higher. We too our dog Butch Harris (he was called Butch because he was a wimp and Harris because with a bit of imagination his fur looked like Harris Tweed. In 1989 we moved to Aotearoa (New Zealand) and Butch came with us. He passed away in 1996 and he is buried on our patch of land here. So a well travelled dog and a link to the Highlands.
Went up in similar but very much windier conditions in 2018 before the Harris LAMM. Didn't take my kids up either but my son would have made it with hindsight. One intrepid father had his young son and daughter on short ropes with full body harnesses on the ledges approaching the "mauvais pas". It was too windy to ask if they had summited, but I suspect not if approaching 'direct'. Still a great morning out and capped by a lone stag near the loch as we returned to the car.
Had an absolutely full day, finally got to watch your video. Those views from atop SP were the stuff of my dreams. You were certainly blessed with the weather too! Building those memories for your boy (and you too!)
ATB
Thanks Erin - we got lucky with the weather thankfully :) can’t wait to go back :)
Take care and thanks for watching
Murray
Like you said stunning thanks for sharing
Fantastic, what a place. what a view... I've never had a scotch egg 🥚! although I recollect having a Scottish fried battered Mars bar a hundred years ago lol sorry to hear about your Queen she loved Scotland and probably watched your channel Murray ! the next best thing to being up in the hills.... ATB M ☘️
Hey whats the definition of a "class 3" scramble with the UK grading system? I'm trying to get an idea of how the rating system compares to the difficulty of scrambles in north America
Totally agree with you on Stac Pollaidh being the best wee mountain. I would say that Arthurs Seat is a close second. A very different setting from Assynt & gets overlooked due to its city setting. But in my opinion is great fun to climb, lots of different routes up and fantastic views.
I can see why you consider it the world’s greatest small mountain and looking at I have to agree. It looks like it was forged by giants. A truly amazing place without doubt. I’ll bet the wee man had a great time making his way up. And fish and chips at the end of the day, perfect. As always Murray, thanks for sharing and stay safe. ATB.
Thanks Tony - Stac Pollaidh certainly is amazing - can’t wait to ge back - will get the weeman to the top next time :)
Take care
M
Darn thats epic terrain .... grt to see u out with ur nipper (getting tall) ATB to u both
He may be looking down on me ina few years as I get shorter and he gets taller 😂👍
If you drop down about 6 foot to the left from the small col before the bad step there is a short diagonal chimney which allows you to bypass the step and is not exposed. It didnt seem anymore difficult technically than the step. I would say no more than a grade 2 or perhaps even grade 1 scramble
It's such a beautiful mountain. I climbed it for the first time last June with a friend (I watched your older video on it first). It was a hot Saturday and it was a bit like an outdoor gym! We got to the true summit by going through a chimney bit round the side of the Bad Step. I was much more nervous about going down the Bad Step than going up it so the chimney seemed the safest option.
It’s always more tricky coming down a climb thank going up - it’s a wonderful mountain - can’t wait to go back :)
Take care and thanks for watching
Murray
Absolutely brilliant Murray. The yellow and blue attire? Any significance in these dark days?. Climbed both however reckon Cobbler steals it.......thoughts?
I like my yellow and blue combo :) no other significance tbh :) bought lots of yellow stuff recently - went through a green phase for a while but the yellow trousers got me 😂👌👍
I too got to the bad step and, since I had no rope and it was windy and raining buckets, I said "sod that" and turned around.
But I don't feel I really missed anything, as the walk along the ridge is utterly breathtaking and the summit is just a minor bonus.
I haven't been up since a kid, and then only the easy side (because it was a school trip). Seeing this makesr want to go back and scramble the other peak. He's right, it is the best little mountain in the world, Suilven comes a close second but this one is a rare gem
That looks wonderful Murray.
Another great video, thanks 😊
Thanks George - much appreciated 🙏
You had a beautiful day for this hike. Blue sky and sunshine! Wow
Thanks for taking me along to a part of my ain country that I will never manage to see for myself.
Stunning 😀
Yes a real gem thanx dude
Spectacular place. Have you ever done the one across the loch from SP, I believe it’s called Sgurr Tuath
not yet - but it is on the wish list :)
@@ScotlandsMountains it’s one that always intrigued me when I drive along the opposite side of the loch
It is an absolutely stunning mountain! Those sandstone pillars in swirling mist are fantastic. I’ve only been once but what an impression this wee mountain made. Thanks Murray
It’s one of my favourite mountains anywhere - i always try and nip up when I am in the area 👌👍
Wow!
Beautiful wee mountain with amazing views right enough. Did Stac Pollaidh 3 year ago but didnt attempt the West top. The carpark and road were stowed out when we passed a couple of weeks ago. I take it you are persevering with the troos.
Only using them on shorter trips TBH - not happy to use them on longer excursions 😂 have to get my money out of them (they are a standard go to now for my dog walks 😂👍
I just love the rock formatios👌
Thanks for the video. Always wanted to climb this and will do one day
Watched quite a few of your adventures Murray but this one really gave me the “collywobbles”! My wife and I (both in our 60’s and not rock climbers) were up their a couple of years ago to the Coll and a little beyond. Not having consulted a guide book and having just a 1:50000 map I was not certain I could find a route up. Probably just as well!
It’s a confusing place so many ways to scramble about - great fun though 👍 my son has only done a bit of scrambling so we decided to leave the final scramble for another day - it’s not too hard but the consequences of a wrong foot placement are not great . It’s a wonderful place though 👌👍
Take care and thanks for watching
Murray
Agreed, it's just not worth the risk with sheer drops.
Sometimes these smaller mountains are more rewarding because you get to see the greater landscape and bigger summits from a great vantage point. This is one of my favourites only beaten by the fabulous little Dun Caan on Raasay.
absolutely agree - Dun Caan on Raasay is one I have yet to visit - but seen the views from it on SAS program - rather spectacular :)
Take care and thanks for watching
ATB
Murray
Gorgeous scenery. Definitely one for the 'must do' list!
Loved Stac Pollaidh ever since watching your 2016 video years ago, and inspired me to hike up earlier this year. I’m trying to see whether you’ve made a video summitting Sgurr An Fhidhleir Murray across the way, as the views from there look amazing? Cheers Stuart👍🏻
This small mountain certainly packs a punch! It loses none of the drama of the bigger mountains despite its size. It is definitely on our list to hike up next time we visit this area of Scotland. Nice to see you out with your son again Murray, he seems to have been bitten by the climbing bug😊👍. Always a pleasure to watch your videos😊👌
Thanks folks - always a good day on Stac Pollaidh. It’s my sons favourite so far 👌⛰⛰
The footage is amazing. Could I ask what camera you use? I have always had GoPro but they just don’t capture the scenery in the distance they way your camera has in this? Thanks
Hi Darren - in this video I was using the insta r and also my sony ZV1 and sony a7iii :) - hope that helps
Take care and thanks for watching
ATB
Murray
Three years ago we climbed up here and were lost in the clouds, last month we followed the weather closer and made it to the basic part. Views are truly fantastic, must say though it was windy and cold so did not stay long but the memories will stay forever! Thanks for giving us a link to some great quality footage that we can watch whenever we like, do you sell your pics or have thought of doing a Scottish Mountains highlights DVD? We would happily pay for something like this...
Hi Andrew - afraid not yet - maybe one day when I get time :)
Take care and thanks for watching
ATB
Murray
In my opinion one of the most beautiful sights in the highlands, stunning beauty. Maybe the Torridon mountains are strong contenders. I hope I will be able to get there next may. I‘m aged 63 now and I‘m afraid that my knees will not be able to climb these mountains much longer… thank you very much for these impressions. Kind regards from Germany!
The Torridons are the jewel in Scotland's crown, but the mountains in the far North (Stac Pollaidh, Suilven, Cul Mhor and the like) are also fabulous.
Class mate views are incredible 👍👍👍
I climbed to the West Summit last month. Every one else seemed to be satisfied with the lower East Summit. Have to say - after reading all the scary warnings beforehand - I was quite full of trepidation. However, when I came face to face with it - I just stayed calm and focused - and found it was straightforward. I'm not being macho, I'm 63, but have quite a lot of rockclimbing experience..and conditions were hot and dry, and the pitch had good holds. If climbed straight up from the notch - even if you slipped off - you'd only slither back down. The main issue was being assailed by a swarm of large flies as I reached the summit! Descending was straightforward (just need to be steady and make sure you follow the sloping ledges back down); and, just to psychologically 'master' the tricky step, I climbed it again - up the alternative ascent route up a chimney down to the left - and descended the standard route again. A brilliant feeling to have conquered my pre-summit anxiety and to have an amazing mountain all to myself.
Did rock climbing in my youth. Bit of smug pride when I casually clamber onto the last summit and others turn back :). Great vid again. And agree, views are amazing.
It’s a wonderful summit 👌👍
Looks fantastic
You might have shown your son more on the video
Yeah you’re weird 😂
By the way: I‘m totally surprised that you have been all alone on the summit, I thought it would be more busy…
There were a couple of climbers who had come up the western side but not many people further up - lots down at the east too though 👍👍
Was that a childs portion from the chippy, where were the mushy peas, how much did it cost? What a place to leave a bad step, need to send a strongly worded letter to Health & Safety at the Scottish Parliament. Good work with the filming and getting the lad out and about, bet he hates it. No doubt desperate to get to a gaming machine!!
Wow - it's like a ruined Giant's Causeway in the sky! Good on you for putting safety first, by the way.