The Skye Trail runs the length of the Isle of Skye from Rubha Hunish in the north to Broadford in the south, crossing the Trotternish Ridge, the Quiraing and skirting beneath the Cuillin — arguably the most rugged mountain terrain covered by any long-distance route in Britain. It's not an official waymarked trail.
Route map
Terrain
Genuinely hard mountain terrain: pathless sections, steep ridge walking, scree and exposed scrambling in places, especially on the Trotternish Ridge and near the Cuillin. Navigation skills and hillwalking experience are essential — this isn't a trail for beginners.
Tips
There's no waymarking at all, so solid map, compass and GPS navigation skills are non-negotiable, especially in Skye's notoriously changeable weather. Wild camping (permitted under Scottish access rights) is the norm since accommodation options are sparse along the ridge sections. Allow 7–8 days and don't underestimate it because of the modest overall distance.
Permits & access
No permits required — access is under the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, though this is serious mountain terrain requiring real hillwalking experience.