Traverse the Liathach Ridge: A Classic Highland Adventure
Experience Liathach Ridge with Expert Guidance – Torridon's Iconic Scramble
Tackle Liathach Ridge: A Day of High-Exposure Scrambling and Spectacular Views
Liathach is one of Scotland’s finest mountain ridge traverses. Located in the Torridon mountains, this ridge offers a high-exposure, technical scrambling route, weaving along dramatic pinnacles and rugged rock features. It’s a demanding challenge, both physically and mentally, for experienced hikers who want a thrilling adventure with breathtaking views.
At Nordur, we guide you across the traverse safely, teaching vital movement skills for steep, rocky terrain. Our approach ensures you build confidence, learn scrambling techniques, and become comfortable in this high-exposure environment. Whether you’re a seasoned scrambler or ready for your first major traverse, our expert guides will support you every step of the way.
Liathach is more than a scramble; it’s an experience that requires focus, endurance, and resilience. You’ll not only reach the summit but gain new skills and a deeper understanding of navigating technical mountain terrain.
Is today the day you organise your Liathach Ridge Traverse?
Liathach Ridge Traverse Highlights
10km of exposed scrambling and 1,050m ascent
Traverse two Munros: Spidean a' Choire Leith and Mullach an Rathain
Experience the famous ‘Am Fasarinen Pinnacles’
What to Expect During the Liathach Traverse
Scrambling & Technical Challenges
Liathach features long sections of Grade 2-3 scrambling, with the most challenging section being the Am Fasarinen Pinnacles. These require careful, confident movement over exposed and narrow terrain.
Ropework & Safety Techniques
In some areas, you’ll rope up for added security. Our guides will teach you ‘Short rope ’ techniques to ensure safe, efficient progress across the more technical sections of the ridge.
Equipment & Preparation
You’ll need the right technical kit for this ascent, including helmet, harness, and ropes (all provided). Essential personal gear includes waterproofs, insulating layers, and sturdy boots with ankle support. Your guide will ensure you’re fully prepared for the challenges ahead.
Alpine Feel & Terrain
Liathach’s ridgeline feels like a true alpine experience, with jagged rock formations and steep gullies. The exposure is constant, making it one of the more adventurous mountain days in Scotland. Despite its challenges, the rewards are unforgettable views across Torridon and beyond.
Expert Navigation & Weather Adaptation
ith unpredictable weather typical in Torridon, your guide will manage the route based on conditions. Whether it’s mist or high winds, you’ll learn essential techniques for navigating this complex terrain safely.
Summit Achievement
The Liathach Traverse includes summiting two Munros, making it a rewarding day for those with Munro-bagging aspirations. The combination of technical scrambling and stunning vistas from the summits makes this an unmissable Scottish mountain experience.
Due to the the nature of this challenge of this ascent, we only offer this on a bespoke basis. Our maximum ratio is 1:2
Expedition Safety
Your Safety is Our Top Priority on Every Trip
At Nordur, the safety and well-being of our adventurers are our highest priority. We aim to provide an exhilarating experience while ensuring that every step of the way is secure and well-managed.
Our expert guides are highly trained and experienced in mountain navigation, emergency first aid, and managing technical terrain risks. With extensive local knowledge, they are skilled at making informed decisions based on real-time conditions in the mountains, from scrambling ridges to technical rock faces.
Before we begin the mountain day, you'll receive a thorough briefing covering essential safety protocols, route specifics, and emergency procedures tailored to the activity, whether it’s scrambling over ridgelines or tackling rock climbing pitches.
We use only the best equipment, all meeting international safety standards. This includes top-tier climbing gear such as ropes, helmets, harnesses, and protection equipment. Your guide will walk you through the correct use of this gear, ensuring you feel confident and prepared throughout the day.
Our groups are kept small, allowing us to provide a more personalised experience and enhancing our ability to manage safety effectively during the adventure. Your guide will always be close by to monitor progress, manage the route, and offer support if conditions change.
Ready to explore some of Scotland’s finest climbing and scrambling routes with the confidence that you're in expert hands? Let’s get started.
Your Liathach Ridge Traverse Itinerary
Meet at Torridon Village
We start early to avoid congestion on the ridge. A prompt start means you’ll be ahead of the crowds, making for a smoother, more enjoyable traverse. Meeting at 7am ensures plenty of time to complete the full traverse safely. We then can shuttle the vehicles together from here.
The Ascent to the Ridge
The walk-in takes around 1.5-2 hours, beginning with a steep ascent through rugged terrain to the start of the ridge. From here, the real adventure begins as we move into the more technical sections of the traverse.
On the ridge
The traverse typically takes 4-6 hours depending on conditions. Key features include the exhilarating Am Fasarinen Pinnacles and the exposed narrow ridgeline between the two Munro summits. Our guides will ensure you move efficiently and safely through each section, maximising both safety and enjoyment.
Summit and Descent
After completing the traverse, we descend steeply back to Torridon Village. The journey is physically demanding but incredibly rewarding, with sweeping views of the surrounding peaks and lochs as you complete the ridge. Expect the entire day to last around 8-10 hours.
SO HAVE WE INSPIRED YOU TO JOIN US ON OUR NEXT ASCENT
But don’t take our word for it have a look below at the media reel that shows you some of the highlights on offer during the ascent.
Our Liathach Ridge Traverse Photo Gallery
The detail
1:1 - £280 1:2 - £330
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Guiding for the day
All technical equipment
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Full waterproofs
Spare belay jacket
Warm hat and gloves
map and compass(if you have them)
Head torch
Personal medication
Water and food (long day pack lots)
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This is a bespoke product due to the nature of the day.
Interested in the other scrambles in the highlands?
Tailored Highland Scrambles
We guide all of the classic graded scrambles in the Highlands. If you're keen to design your own itinerary or want a more personalised adventure, get in touch with us by phone or email. Let’s work together to plan your next journey through Scotland's finest scrambling routes.
Giving You Unmatched Expertise and Personalisation on Your Trip
Why Choose Nordur for Your Scottish Highland Adventure
Local knowledge
Nordur stands apart in the world of adventure travel with its deep-rooted local expertise. Led by our founder, Jamie, a seasoned guide with over 17 years experience, and is not only a local but a huge enthusiast of the Scottish wilderness, Nordur offers an authentic experience that larger, outsourced tours simply cannot match. We know every hidden trail and secret spot that makes Scotland unique, offering you a richer, more immersive experience.
Sustainability and Respect
At Nordur, we are deeply committed to preserving the stunning landscapes we explore. We practice Leave No Trace principles and engage in efforts to maintain the natural beauty and integrity of the Scottish wilderness. Choosing Nordur means supporting eco-friendly tourism and contributing to the conservation of these magnificent areas for future generations.
Tailored Adventures
Each expedition is carefully crafted to match the desires and abilities of our guests. Nordur specialises in creating personalised experiences that cater to your interests, whether you're seeking thrilling mountain ascents or serene moments by secluded lochs. Our small group sizes ensure that your journey is attentive and responsive to your pace and preferences.
All-Inclusive Expeditions
From high-quality camping gear to expert navigation and safety equipment, everything you need for your journey is provided. Our packrafts are state-of-the-art and we provide you with full training, ensuring that you can navigate the lochs with ease and safety. With Nordur, you can focus fully on your adventure, knowing that all logistical details are expertly handled.
Choosing Nordur means embarking on an expedition where every detail is designed to offer a profound connection with Scotland's natural wonders and cultural heritage. It’s more than just a trek —it’s an expedition into the heart of the wild, guided by those who call it home.
Join us for an unforgettable adventure that pushes your limits and takes you beyond the ordinary, into the extraordinary landscapes of the Scottish Highlands.
Ready for an adventure?
When you come on an expedition with Nordur, it’s not just a trip; it’s a pivotal life experience.
Spaces are limited to maintain the quality and intimacy of the expedition. Reserve your place on this extraordinary adventure today and discover why Nordur's Fannichs and Fisherfield expedition is the ultimate Scottish highland adventure.
Not sure this adventure is right for you? Contact us to discuss.
We also offer a whole range of other bucket list adventures, both in Scotland and Internationally. Check out our other expeditions here or give us a call to discuss your perfect adventure.
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How to scramble the Liathach ridge - is it for me?
Preparing for the Liathach Traverse: What You Need to Know
The Liathach ridge, a classic mountain traverse in Torridon, is one of Scotland's great mountain days. The views, the scrambling, and the exposure make it a day to remember, but preparation is key to making sure it’s a good memory. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect, the gear you’ll need, and some escape options if things don’t go to plan.
