Cape Wrath Trail and Ben Strome Loop

This moderate hike typically takes around 4 hours and 15 minutes to complete. This duration is for the specific 14.5 km loop, not the entire Cape Wrath Trail.

The Cape Wrath Trail and Ben Strome Loop is rated as moderate. While it offers significant elevation gain (around 412 meters), it is much less demanding than the full Cape Wrath Trail, making it accessible for hikers with a reasonable level of fitness.

Yes, as the name suggests, this is a loop trail. It starts and ends in the same general area, offering a varied experience without retracing your steps.

The loop typically starts near Kylestrome, offering access to the scenic areas around Ben Strome and sections of the broader Cape Wrath Trail. Specific parking details would depend on the exact trailhead chosen for the loop.

The loop offers outstanding views, particularly from the moorland hillside of Ben Strome, with panoramic vistas across the loch and countless lochans. You'll experience the wild beauty of the Scottish Highlands, including sweeping landscapes and potentially stunning sea lochs.

Along this loop, you can enjoy several highlights. Keep an eye out for the View of the Stack of Glencoul, the impressive View of Quinag, and the geological marvel of The Glencoul Thrust Fault. You'll also pass the beautiful Maldie Burn Waterfall and be rewarded with Views over the loch from Ben Strome.

Yes, the loop is generally dog-friendly. However, please keep dogs under close control, especially in areas with livestock or ground-nesting birds, and always follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. Be prepared for potentially muddy or rocky sections.

The best time to hike is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to September) when the weather is generally milder and daylight hours are longer. Be prepared for unpredictable Scottish weather, which can change rapidly, even in summer. Midges can be prevalent in warmer months, so insect repellent is advisable.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike the Cape Wrath Trail and Ben Strome Loop. The trail is located within the Assynt-Coigach National Scenic Area, which is freely accessible to the public under the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.

Yes, this route also passes through sections of the official Cape Wrath Trail (Inchnadamph → Cape Wrath) and the Highland Trail 550, offering a taste of these longer, more challenging routes.

For this moderate loop, essential gear includes sturdy hiking boots, waterproof and windproof layers, sufficient water and snacks, a map and compass (and the skills to use them), and a fully charged phone with GPS. Insect repellent is highly recommended during warmer months due to midges.

The area around the Cape Wrath Trail is remote, but small towns like Durness and Kinlochbervie offer limited accommodation options, cafes, and pubs. It's advisable to plan ahead and book any services you might need, as options are scarce.