Marilyn · North-West Highlands
Creag Scalabsdale
The name means 'crag' in Gaelic. A 555m hill in the far northeast near Helmsdale with at least 150m of prominence — enough to feel like a real summit rather than a shoulder. The modest height belies the quality of the walking.
Gaelic: “crag, rocky hill” · Pronunciation: krayg
Quick facts
- Height
- 555m/ 1820ft
- Difficulty
- 2 / 5Moderate
- Grid ref
- NC 97002 24050
Download GPX route file
Standard route
Standard route
A steady ascent across the ancient Lewisian gneiss landscape unique to the northwest to the 555m summit. The walking is straightforward with clear views opening up as you gain height. Allow 2-4 hours.
Terrain
Remote northwest Highland terrain with minimal paths. Expect peat, rock and heather in a landscape that has changed little in millennia.
In winter
Winter in the northwest is characterised by wind, rain and occasional snow. The remoteness adds an extra dimension of seriousness to winter outings.
This hill is in the Torridon SAIS forecast area. Check SAIS forecasts in winter (December–April).
Best time of year
Getting there
- Glasgow6h 10m
- Edinburgh6h 59m
OS maps: OS Landranger 17, OS Explorer 444E
Current conditions
Daylight Today
- Sunrise
- 05:20
- Sunset
- 21:04
- Civil dawn
- 04:31
- Civil dusk
- 21:53
NOAA Solar Calculator · 2 May 2026