Photo: Hamish McCunn · CC BY-SA 4.0
Overview
About this Munro
Slioch is a 981m Munro in the Wester Ross region, its Gaelic name meaning “the spear”. It stands 173rd of the 282 Munros by height. The usual ascent — Slioch from Incheril — is a 20km round trip taking 7.3–9.5 hours, rated moderate (2/5).
Plan your day
Routes & Navigation
There is 1 route to the summit of Slioch, covering 20km.
Route preview
Slioch from Incheril
Moderate7.3–9.5h round trip20km distance↑785m ascent
Bog ratingModerate
ParkingIncheril Car Park
Step-by-step guideIn the app
Climbing Slioch
Your ascent of Slioch from Incheril is a classic Highland mountain route covering 20km over 7-9 hours, graded 2 out of 5…
Climbing Slioch
Your ascent of Slioch from Incheril is a classic Highland mountain route covering 20km over 7-9 hours, graded 2 out of 5…
Your ascent of Slioch from Incheril is a classic Highland mountain route covering 20km over 7-9 hours, graded 2 out of 5 for difficulty, making it more accessible than many surrounding peaks. However, the bog level is rated 3 out of 5, so you'll encounter substantial wet ground particularly on the initial approaches through the glen. The route begins with a long walk-in along Loch Maree's northern shore on good paths before turning north towards the mountain.
As you approach Slioch, the terrain becomes rougher and wetter, with peat hags and bog to navigate before you begin the steeper climbing. The mountain's name, meaning The Spear, becomes clear as you see its pointed summit rising dramatically above the surrounding landscape. The ascent itself follows a clear line up the southern slopes, with well-worn paths on the main route making navigation straightforward in good visibility.
The gradient is sustained but never overly steep, allowing steady progress. Slioch stands magnificently isolated, giving tremendous views throughout the climb as you gain height above Loch Maree.
Best Time to Climb Slioch
The 7-9 hour expedition to Slioch is best undertaken from late spring through early autumn when you have sufficient…
Best Time to Climb Slioch
The 7-9 hour expedition to Slioch is best undertaken from late spring through early autumn when you have sufficient…
The 7-9 hour expedition to Slioch is best undertaken from late spring through early autumn when you have sufficient daylight to complete the route safely. Summer provides the longest days and generally more stable weather, though the Wester Ross region receives substantial rainfall year-round, making the boggy approaches to Slioch particularly challenging after wet periods.
The mountain's relatively accessible nature makes it popular during good weather, so expect to share the route with other hillwalkers on fine summer weekends. Midges can be intense in the lower glen during summer, particularly around dawn and dusk in still conditions. Autumn offers spectacular scenery as the glen colours turn golden and russet, and the clearer air often provides excellent visibility from Slioch. Days shorten rapidly after September, so plan accordingly.
Winter transforms Slioch into a more serious proposition requiring winter mountaineering skills, as the slopes can hold significant snow and ice. The mountain's prominence means it catches weather systems early, so conditions on Slioch may be more severe than valley forecasts suggest. Check mountain weather forecasts carefully before your ascent.
Getting to Slioch
Incheril Car Park provides the starting point for your ascent of Slioch, located on the A832 road along the northern…
Getting to Slioch
Incheril Car Park provides the starting point for your ascent of Slioch, located on the A832 road along the northern…
Incheril Car Park provides the starting point for your ascent of Slioch, located on the A832 road along the northern shore of Loch Maree in Wester Ross. The car park is well-signposted and offers good facilities with ample parking, though it fills quickly during popular weekends in summer, so arrive early. Parking charges apply. The A832 is maintained year-round to a reasonable standard, making access to Slioch relatively straightforward by Highland standards.
The location is remote with no immediate facilities, so bring all the water, food, and supplies you'll need for the full day. The nearest services are in Kinlochewe to the east or Gairloch to the west, both requiring a drive of several miles. Mobile phone signal at Incheril Car Park is unreliable and becomes non-existent once you head towards Slioch, so you must be self-reliant.
The stunning setting beside Loch Maree, with views across to the Torridon peaks, makes this one of Scotland's most scenic trailheads. The walk begins along the loch shore before turning inland towards Slioch, a route that has been used by hillwalkers for generations.
Slioch Summit
At 981 metres, the summit of Slioch provides one of the finest viewpoints in the northwest Highlands, with the…
Slioch Summit
At 981 metres, the summit of Slioch provides one of the finest viewpoints in the northwest Highlands, with the…
At 981 metres, the summit of Slioch provides one of the finest viewpoints in the northwest Highlands, with the mountain's isolated position offering unobstructed panoramas. The summit is marked by a substantial cairn and trig point sitting on a broad rocky platform. The views from Slioch are exceptional, extending across Loch Maree's island-studded waters to the dramatic peaks of Torridon, including Beinn Eighe and Liathach.
To the north, the wilderness of Fisherfield and the Letterewe estate stretches away, while westward you can see towards the coast and the Hebrides on clear days. The summit area of Slioch is relatively exposed with limited shelter, though the broad top allows you to find some protection from the wind by moving to different sides. The sense of space and wildness is profound, with vast areas of uninhabited landscape visible in all directions.
On a clear day, Slioch rewards your ascent with views that rank among Scotland's finest. The mountain's name, The Spear, is particularly apt when viewed from certain angles below.
Wildlife on Slioch
The approach to Slioch along Loch Maree takes you through ancient Caledonian pine forest remnants, some of Scotland's…
Wildlife on Slioch
The approach to Slioch along Loch Maree takes you through ancient Caledonian pine forest remnants, some of Scotland's…
The approach to Slioch along Loch Maree takes you through ancient Caledonian pine forest remnants, some of Scotland's most precious woodland habitat supporting rich biodiversity. Scots pine, birch, and rowan trees host communities of mosses, lichens, and fungi, while the understory supports heather, bilberry, and ferns. As you leave the woodland and climb towards Slioch, the terrain transitions to wet moorland dominated by heather, bog myrtle, and sphagnum mosses.
Red deer are abundant in this area, often seen on the lower slopes or in the glens. Pine martens inhabit the woodlands, though these elusive creatures are rarely seen. Golden eagles nest in the surrounding mountains and hunt across the landscape, frequently visible soaring on thermals. Black-throated divers breed on some of Loch Maree's islands, their haunting calls carrying across the water.
As you gain altitude on Slioch, ptarmigan inhabit the summit areas, while ravens patrol the crags year-round. Ring ouzels nest in boulder fields during summer. The rich habitat diversity around Slioch supports a varied wildlife community that enhances the mountain experience.
Slioch Tips
While Slioch is graded as moderately difficult, don't underestimate the commitment of a 20km mountain day. Navigation…
Slioch Tips
While Slioch is graded as moderately difficult, don't underestimate the commitment of a 20km mountain day. Navigation…
While Slioch is graded as moderately difficult, don't underestimate the commitment of a 20km mountain day. Navigation skills are important, particularly on the descent when the correct line off the mountain needs to be found. Carry map, compass, and ideally GPS, and know how to use them. The boggy sections demand waterproof boots and gaiters, while trekking poles are highly recommended for stability and to ease the load on your knees during descent.
Pack sufficient water for an 8-hour day, as reliable sources on the upper mountain are limited. Take high-energy food and emergency rations. Mobile signal is non-existent throughout most of the route to Slioch, so inform someone of your detailed plans and expected return time. Full waterproofs and warm layers are essential, as weather can deteriorate rapidly even during summer. The exposed summit of Slioch can be very cold and windy, so pack hat and gloves.
In winter, this route requires winter mountaineering skills and equipment including ice axe and crampons. Start early to allow ample daylight for the return journey. Emergency shelter and headtorch should be standard items in your pack for any serious mountain day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about climbing Slioch.
How tall is Slioch?
Slioch stands at 981 metres (3,219 feet), making it the 173rd tallest of all 282 Munros in Scotland.
What does Slioch mean in Gaelic?
The name Slioch translates from Scottish Gaelic as “The Spear”.
How long does it take to climb Slioch?
Climbing Slioch typically takes between 7.3 and 9.5 hours round trip. This varies with fitness, weather, and the route chosen.
Where do I park for Slioch?
There is dedicated parking at the standard starting point for the main route up Slioch, in the Wester Ross area. The exact car park location, map pin and arrival guidance are in the free Munros app.
How difficult is Slioch to climb?
Slioch is rated Moderate (difficulty 2/5).
What is the best route up Slioch?
The most popular route up Slioch covers 20km, 7.3–9.5 hours round trip.
Is Slioch good for beginners?
Slioch in the Wester Ross area is well suited to walkers with some hillwalking experience. Rated difficulty 2/5 at 981m, the paths are clear and the terrain is not technically demanding.
What region is Slioch in?
Slioch is in the Wester Ross region of Scotland.