Inaccessible Pinnacle
Inaccessible Pinnacle (In Pinn)
Climb · ModerateGrade details
Grades describe the named technical sections, not every metre of the route.
Inaccessible Pinnacle: East Ridge: Moderate rock climb
This is the rock climb on the pinnacle itself, normally followed by an abseil, not the walking approach.
The pinnacle ascent and abseil are separate from the walking GPX. Grade reference
Sgùrr Dearg: West Ridge: Grade 2 ridge; exact walking descent unresolved
Grade 2 refers to the direct scrambling ridge of Sgùrr Dearg, not a climb on the Inaccessible Pinnacle.
This grades the named ridge. The precise saved line or bypass is not verified. Grade reference
Route overview
This classic Cuillin outing ascends Sgùrr Dearg from Glen Brittle, offering access to the infamous Inaccessible Pinnacle. While the walk to the summit ridge is a rugged and steep mountain excursion, the pinnacle itself stands as the ultimate Munro challenge, requiring rock-climbing skills and ropework to safely reach the top of this dramatic basalt blade.
Terrain and underfoot
The route features a mixture of clear paths, rough scree, boulder fields, and steep gullies. Navigation can be highly complex, particularly when traversing below the cliffs of the main ridge. Reaching the summit of Sgùrr Dearg involves basic scrambling, but ascending the Inaccessible Pinnacle itself is a graded rock climb with extreme exposure, requiring appropriate climbing equipment and experience.
- Distance
- 7.9 km
- Ascent
- 985 m
- Typical time
- 3.5 - 4.5 hoursStandard moving time
- Your time
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Getting there and parking
Driving and parking
In Pinn parking opposite Glen Brittle Memorial Hut
The roadside start is opposite Glen Brittle Memorial Hut, beyond the Mountain Rescue building, grid NG411216. Follow the current signs and keep access clear.
A small informal grass and gravel area opposite the Memorial Hut. Hut and Mountain Rescue spaces are separate.
- Before you go
- Private hut spaces, Rescue access and farm working areas are separate and must be kept clear.
- Walking approach and return
- Walk about 50 metres towards the beach to the path by the sheep pens and bridge. Allow extra time for climbing the Inaccessible Pinnacle, which is not included in the walking-time estimate.