4.8
(89)
477
hikers
Old Man of Stoer Trail
02:24
7.55km
190m
Hiking
Hike the moderate 4.7-mile Old Man of Stoer Trail to the iconic sea stack, offering dramatic coastal views in Assynt-Coigach.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
43 m
Stoer Head Lighthouse
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
318 m
Stoer Head Lighthouse
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
2.48 km
View of the Old Man of Stoer
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
3.59 km
Old Man of Stoer
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
4.11 km
Point of Stoer
Highlight • Natural
Tip by
5.00 km
Sìthean Mòr Summit
Highlight • Summit
Tip by
7.55 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
3.10 km
2.72 km
1.18 km
523 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
3.79 km
1.84 km
1.18 km
544 m
185 m
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Elevation
Highest point (150 m)
Lowest point (30 m)
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Tuesday 26 May
21°C
5°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Old Man of Stoer Trail like?
This moderate hike takes you along the dramatic coastline of Sutherland, offering stunning views. The trail is primarily known for leading to viewpoints of the iconic Old Man of Stoer sea stack and the historic Stoer Head Lighthouse.
How long does it take to hike the Old Man of Stoer Trail?
The route is approximately 7.5 kilometers (4.7 miles) long and typically takes around 2 hours and 25 minutes to complete. This duration is an estimate and can vary based on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views.
Where does the Old Man of Stoer Trail start, and is there parking?
The trail commonly starts near the Stoer Head Lighthouse. There is usually parking available at or near the lighthouse, providing convenient access to the trailhead.
Is the Old Man of Stoer Trail suitable for beginners?
Rated as 'moderate', the trail involves some elevation gain (around 188 meters or 617 feet) and can be exposed to the elements. While not overly technical, a reasonable level of fitness is recommended, especially given the potentially changeable weather conditions.
Is the Old Man of Stoer Trail dog-friendly?
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the Old Man of Stoer Trail. However, as this is a coastal and often open landscape, it's important to keep dogs under control, especially around livestock and nesting birds. Always carry bags to clean up after your pet.
What can I see along the route?
Beyond the impressive Old Man of Stoer sea stack and the Stoer Head Lighthouse, you'll pass the dramatic Point of Stoer and can even reach the Sìthean Mòr Summit for expansive views. The coastal scenery is a constant highlight.
Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee for the Assynt-Coigach National Scenic Area?
No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike the Old Man of Stoer Trail or to access the Assynt-Coigach National Scenic Area. However, please respect the local environment and follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
What is the best time of year to visit the Old Man of Stoer Trail?
The trail can be enjoyed year-round, but late spring to early autumn (May to September) generally offers the most favorable weather conditions with longer daylight hours. Be prepared for strong winds and rain at any time, as coastal weather in Scotland is highly unpredictable.
Is the Old Man of Stoer Trail a loop or out-and-back?
The komoot route for the Old Man of Stoer Trail is designed as a circular route, allowing you to experience varied scenery without retracing your steps entirely. It returns via Sìthean Mòr.
Is this the same as the Old Man of Storr on the Isle of Skye?
No, the Old Man of Stoer is a distinct 60-meter-high sea stack located in Sutherland, on the Scottish mainland, and is popular with climbers. The Old Man of Storr (with an 'r') is a famous rock pinnacle on the Isle of Skye, known for its dramatic hiking trails. This komoot tour is specifically for the Old Man of Stoer Trail in Sutherland.
What should I wear and bring for the hike?
Given the coastal and exposed nature of the trail, it's essential to wear sturdy hiking boots and bring waterproof and windproof clothing, even on seemingly fine days. Layers are advisable. Also, carry enough water, snacks, and a map or GPS device, as mobile signal can be intermittent.
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
After we had enjoyed the rainy weather with the best view in the dry, the first ray of sunshine came just in time for this excursion ...
Hike to the old man and the lighthouse. The paths are quite wet, so large hiking boots are recommended.
This morning it would be a quiet walk. Looking for the Old Man of Stoer this time. Started in the rain that stopped anyway. But by the time we reached the old man, a very strong wind was blowing. Almost impossible to stay in one place. Sometimes you were suddenly 5 m away. So we had to build in some safety with regard to the cliff edge. I had to lie down to take something stable. From the Man Of Stoer we had to skip the Point of tough. The way back was an adventure, because wind in the head! We have postponed the afternoon walk to tomorrow. The Scots claim that the weather will be better tomorrow... and that this May is really exceptionally wet...
A friend from the Netherlands is visiting me in Scotland, where I will be living for four months this winter and spring. We are traveling along the west coast and ended up in this place quite by chance. We both have a love for birdwatching, although that love still needed to be revived for me. Of course I couldn't resist guillemots, gannets, storm petrels, large skuas and other (sea) birds! We sat next to each other above the cliffs and recognized as many different birds as possible. Binoculars would have been nice, but Paulien the biologist doesn't have them yet (phew!). Besides the bird fun, this is also a very nice walk! From the free parking lot at the photogenic lighthouse, you walk along cliffs to the Old Man of Stoer, a striking rock that protrudes from the sea like a cone. Most walkers return here towards the lighthouse, but the walk to the tip of the headland and then back over the hilltop is more than worth it. From the hilltop beacon you have beautiful views of the Torridon mountains.
No. 39 of my #100komootwanders_2022 challenge. 💛 Tuesday 19th July 2022 Happy 39th Birthday to me... We had a weather window for the morning before heavy downpours were due in the area, so decided I wanted to visit the Old Man of Stoer, which is a spectacular 70 metres high sea-stack. The walking route can be rough and boggy in places but the coastal scenery is impressive. The return route is over a low hill "Sìthean Mòr" (the Big Fairy Hill) which offers fantastic views in clear weather of the Assynt mountains - Quinag, Canisp, Suilven, Cul Mòr , Cul Beag and Stac Pollaidh. This route is also particularly well known as one of the best walks in Assynt for whale and dolphin spotting. It's also worth noting that care is absolutely needed when near the cliff edges.