Sgùrr a' Ghreadaidh

Sgùrr a' Ghreadaidh, at 973 metres, is a twin-summited peak on Skye's Cuillin Ridge, its narrow, sustained crest offering some of the most serious scrambling of the whole traverse, connecting to neighbouring Sgùrr na Banachdaich and Sgùrr a' Mhadaidh.

Most walkers reach this summit as part of a wider Cuillin traverse from Glen Brittle. From Sgùrr na Banachdaich, the ridge continues north-west then descends north-east on loose scree towards Sgùrr Thormaid, with some easy scrambling to a short col offering fine views across to Blà Bheinn. Climbing directly up the rocky slope beyond leads to Sgùrr Thormaid's summit — though it appears intimidating at first, careful route-finding around some pinnacles reveals an easier line than expected, though the descent on the far side involves loose ground requiring care. Skirting around a feature known as the Three Teeth (either side is feasible, though the right/south side is more commonly taken), the ridge reaches a broad, flat col with a low circular stone shelter, before steepening and narrowing towards Sgùrr a' Ghreadaidh — scrambling resumes in earnest here, initially straightforward with occasional ledges to pause on, but becoming increasingly exposed and sustained on the final approach to the twin summits.

The north-west top and the main summit are separated by a short section of ridge; both are worth visiting for slightly different perspectives on the surrounding Cuillin panorama, with dramatic views down into Coire a' Ghreadaidh and across to the rest of the ridge.

From the summit, the traverse continues south towards Sgùrr a' Mhadaidh for those extending the ridge walk, or descends via Coire a' Ghreadaidh for those completing a shorter round.

The full traverse incorporating Sgùrr a' Ghreadaidh from Glen Brittle, depending on which neighbouring summits are included, is typically eight to twelve hours or more — this is committing, serious Cuillin terrain throughout.

This is sustained, exposed Grade 2-3 scrambling with genuinely serious consequences for any slip — full scrambling competence, a confident head for heights, and ideally rope and harness for less experienced parties are all essential given the character of this section of ridge.

Parking at Glen Brittle is free; there is no public transport to the start.