4.8
(35)
569
hikers
Ring of Steall
08:01
17.2km
1,340m
Hiking
Hike the difficult Ring of Steall, a 10.7-mile (17.2 km) route in the Mamores with 4386 feet (1337 metres) of elevation gain and stunning vi
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Tips
Includes segments that may be dangerous
Parts of this route comprise highly technical, difficult, or hazardous terrain. Specialist equipment and prior experience is required.
After 4.17 km for 490 m
After 6.24 km for 1.03 km
After 8.97 km for 371 m
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
3.58 km
Sgùrr a'Mhàim
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
4.30 km
The Devil's Ridge
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
6.42 km
Am Bodach Summit
Highlight • Summit
Tip by
8.05 km
Stob Coire a' Chàirn
Highlight • Mountain Pass
Tip by
9.24 km
An Gearanach
Highlight • Climb
Tip by
17.2 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
7.09 km
6.55 km
1.84 km
1.30 km
305 m
106 m
Surfaces
7.26 km
6.70 km
1.52 km
1.30 km
412 m
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Elevation
Highest point (1,040 m)
Lowest point (60 m)
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Tuesday 5 May
11°C
3°C
25 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 13.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it typically take to complete the Ring of Steall hike?
The Ring of Steall is a challenging full-day hike. It typically takes experienced walkers between 9 to 12 hours to complete in good summer conditions. This duration can vary significantly based on fitness levels, weather, and the number of stops you make.
Is the Ring of Steall suitable for beginners or less experienced hikers?
No, the Ring of Steall is considered a very hard and strenuous route, suitable only for experienced hillwalkers with a high level of fitness and a good head for heights. It involves significant elevation gain, scrambling, and exposed ridge walking.
Where does the Ring of Steall trail start, and is there parking available?
The trail typically starts from the end of the public road in Glen Nevis, near the Steall Falls car park. Parking is available there, but it can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Arriving early is advisable.
What is the terrain like on the Ring of Steall?
The terrain is varied and rugged. You'll encounter well-defined paths, but also numerous sections of easy scrambling over rough, rocky ground with exposure. Expect steep ascents and descents, scree, and loose rock. The route includes dramatic arêtes like The Devil's Ridge and An Garbhanach, which involve airy but straightforward scrambling.
What are the main highlights and viewpoints along the Ring of Steall?
The route offers spectacular scenery. Highlights include the impressive Steall Falls, panoramic views of Glen Nevis, Ben Nevis, and the wider Mamores range from various points. You'll also summit four Munros: An Gearanach, Stob Coire a' Chàirn, Am Bodach Summit, and Sgùrr a'Mhàim. The infamous The Devil's Ridge is another notable feature.
What is the best time of year to hike the Ring of Steall?
The best time to hike is during the summer months (June to September) when conditions are generally more stable, and daylight hours are long. Outside of summer, especially in winter, the route requires advanced mountaineering skills, ice axes, and crampons due to snow and ice.
Is the Ring of Steall dog-friendly?
While dogs are generally allowed on Scottish hillwalking routes, the Ring of Steall is extremely challenging for dogs due to the significant scrambling sections, narrow ridges, and potential exposure. Many sections would require lifting or carrying your dog, which can be dangerous for both you and your pet. It's generally not recommended for dogs.
Are there any permits or entrance fees required for hiking in the Mamores?
No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike the Ring of Steall or other trails within the Mamores mountain range. Access to the Scottish hills is generally free under the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
What essential gear should I bring for the Ring of Steall?
Given the trail's difficulty and exposure, essential gear includes sturdy hiking boots, waterproof and windproof clothing, a map and compass (and the ability to use them), sufficient food and water, a headlamp, and a first-aid kit. In winter, ice axes and crampons are mandatory.
What is the Wire Bridge, and how do I cross it?
The Wire Bridge is an iconic start to the hike, crossing the Water of Nevis. It consists of three cables: two for handrails and one to walk on. It requires balance and a head for heights. If water levels are low, some hikers opt to wade across the river instead, but be aware of currents and cold water.
Does the Ring of Steall intersect with other trails?
Yes, the route follows sections of several other paths. The majority of the route is part of the Mamores Trail. It also passes through sections of the Steall Falls trail, and briefly touches on The Devil's Ridge and the Wire Bridge paths.
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
A classic Scottish hillwalking/scrambling circuit. The Ring of Steall has a cracking reputation and for good reason! On a warm sunny day there's nowhere else I'd rather be. 4 Munros, 5 happy faces. Great to try the wire bridge at the foot of the Steall Falls too, I've had that on my list for a while!
Above the Clouds A magical day on a classic Scottish Highlands route with a group of 20 from Sheffield Mountaineering. The route was packed full of interest with a wire bridge crossing, an impressive braided waterfall, a rocky narrow ridge with four Munros and a little bit of easy scrambling. The views were sensational for most of the route, with the weather conditions adding to it. We were very lucky to get a big cloud inversion, which provided spectacular views, particularly to Ben Nevis 'across the road'. The amount of ascent was challenging and quite strenuous. We did the Devil's Ridge and Sgurr A Mhaim (final Munro) in the clouds. The descent to Glen Nevis was punishing, I slid down some of the scree in the upper section to speed up. Finally, there was a 3 km walk back to the car park along a pleasant riverside path and then the road. A highly memorable day with a great bunch of people in a beautiful location.
The Plaintiff Stob Corre a Cairn The Old Man Arms Square
It's finally time for a well-deserved vacation. Top hiking destination Scotland has been on my list for a long time. You can't do the 282 Munros (mountains) in one hike, but 5 is a good start for the first day. Although Ben Nevis itself is not included, there are five other peaks that are well worth seeing. The views of snowy peaks and wide, natural valleys are really amazing. Shortly before the last summit, a via ferrata awaits us, which was quite challenging due to the snow. At the end, the valley surprised us with a river crossing right in front of a waterfall and crossing the well-known suspension bridge. Great tour! Important NOTE. If you want to do the hike too. When descending from the last summit 'An Gearnanach' we made a cross-country detour because the tour we followed showed it that way. Here you save yourself a lot of stress and unnecessary and highlight-less cross-country skiing if you simply follow the normal path.