Old Man of Storr Hike Guide: How to Get There, Where to Stay & Best Tips

Quick Overview: Old Man of Storr Hike

Location: Trotternish Peninsula, Isle of Skye, Scotland
Hike Distance: Approx. 3.8 km / 2.4 miles round trip (longer if you explore beyond the main viewpoint)
Time Needed: 1.5 to 3 hours depending on pace and photo stops
Difficulty: Moderate – consistent uphill trail, some uneven ground
Parking: Paid parking lot at the trailhead; limited spaces, arrive early
Best Time to Hike: Early morning or golden hour (sunrise/sunset); May to September for ideal weather
Weather Tip: The weather on Skye changes quickly — cloudy one moment, clear the next. Always pack layers.
Best Views: Go beyond the main viewpoint to explore the higher loop trail — fewer people, more dramatic scenery
Getting There: Easiest by car; also accessible via bus, or private guided tour from Portree.
Recommended Places to Stay Nearby:

• The Flodigarry Hotel – classic Highland elegance near the Quiraing
• Bracken Hide Hotel – eco-friendly cabins with stunning views
• Cuillin Hills Hotel – upscale stay with panoramic Portree Bay views
• Skeabost House Hotel – peaceful riverside location, full of character
• The Marmalade Hotel – modern comfort in the heart of Portree
• Additional Hotel and Rental Options on Booking.com

Travel Tip: If you want a quieter experience, aim to start the hike before 8 AM. Even on cloudy days, the landscape is unforgettable — and often clears up if you give it time.

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you book through them — at no extra cost to you.

The Old Man of Storr hike had been at the top of my list since the very beginning of planning my Scotland trip. I knew the Isle of Skye was going to be a highlight — and it absolutely was. Wild, dramatic, and unlike anywhere else I’ve hiked in the world, this place completely lived up to the hype.

Known as one of the most iconic hikes in Scotland, the Old Man of Storr is part of the rugged Trotternish Ridge on the Isle of Skye’s east coast. It’s one of the most photographed landscapes in the country — and for good reason. But what the photos can’t quite capture is the feeling of standing there in person: surrounded by towering rock formations, shifting clouds, and endless Highland scenery. Whether you’re here for photography, the thrill of Isle of Skye hiking, or just to experience one of the best things to do in Scotland, this trail delivers.

In this guide, I’m breaking down everything you need to know before hiking the Old Man of Storr, including how to get there, where to stay nearby, how long the hike takes, when to go for the best experience, and a few personal tips from my own adventure.

How to Get to the Old Man of Storr

Getting to the Old Man of Storr is fairly straightforward, especially if you’re already staying on the Isle of Skye — which I highly recommend (more on that later).

By Rental Car

Driving is by far the easiest and most flexible way to reach the Old Man of Storr. The trailhead is located about 15 minutes north of Portree, just off the A855. There’s a clearly marked car park at the base of the hike (paid parking), which fills up fast, especially in summer — so plan to arrive early if you want a spot.

Need a rental car to get to Old Man of Storr? Book yours here.

If you’re coming from mainland Scotland, you’ll first need to cross over the Skye Bridge near Kyle of Lochalsh, then drive about 1.5 to 2 hours north to the Storr trailhead depending on where you’re starting from.

This is the option I went with — we drove from the Cairngorms National Park the day before and stayed just 20 minutes from the trail, which made it easy to get there early.

By Guided Tour

For travelers without a car or those who prefer to let someone else handle the logistics, a group tour might be the way to go. There are several full-day and multi-day tours from Inverness or Portree that include the Old Man of Storr as part of a larger Isle of Skye itinerary. This can be a good option if you’re short on time or looking for a more structured experience.

Looking for a booked tour to Old Man of Storr? Give these a try:

• Private Isle of Skye Adventure Tour from Portree
• From Inverness: Isle of Skye and Fairy Pools Day Trip
• Inverness: Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle Day Trip
• More Options Here

By Bus

If you’re staying in Portree and don’t have a car, you can still get to the hike using the local bus service. Stagecoach runs a route along the A855 (check current schedules), and you can get off near the Storr car park. Just keep in mind that public transport on Skye is limited and not always reliable for tight itineraries — especially if you want to go early in the morning or late in the day.

Old Man of Storr Hike Overview

This is one of those hikes that truly earns its reputation — not just for the views, but for how accessible it is while still feeling wild and remote. It’s easily one of the best hikes in Scotland, and whether you’re a seasoned trekker or more of a casual walker, it’s doable with the right preparation.

Old Man of Storr Trail Summary

• Distance: ~3.8 km (2.4 miles) round trip
• Elevation Gain: Around 288 meters (945 feet)
• Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop
• Route Type: Loop or out-and-back depending on the path you take
• Difficulty: Moderate – steady uphill with some uneven ground and rocky sections

The trail starts from the official car park and follows a wide gravel path that climbs steadily toward the iconic rock formations. After about 30–45 minutes, you’ll reach the main viewpoint — which is where many people turn around. But if you’re up for a bit more of an adventure, I strongly recommend continuing further.

Go Beyond the Main Viewpoint

One of the best decisions I made was pushing past the busy main viewpoint and following the loop that takes you higher into the rock formations. Not only are the views more dramatic up here, but the crowds thin out quickly. I stayed up there for hours, watching the clouds shift and the light change over the landscape — it felt like a different place every 15 minutes.

There are several route options shown on apps like AllTrails, and if you have decent footing and a bit of hiking experience, it’s well worth doing one of the longer loops. Just be mindful — there are no safety barriers, and the terrain gets steeper and rockier the further you go.

Hiking Conditions & What to Expect

The Old Man of Storr hike is not technical, but it is steep in sections and can be muddy, especially after rain (which, let’s be honest, is pretty common in Skye). You don’t need to be super fit, but a basic level of hiking fitness helps, and good shoes are essential.

I hiked in the early morning, arriving at the trailhead around 7:30 AM. At first, the entire ridge was wrapped in cloud, but within an hour, the weather started shifting and clearing in dramatic fashion. That’s Skye for you — it changes constantly. Even if the forecast looks poor, it’s always worth showing up.

Best Time to Visit the Old Man of Storr

If you’re planning your Old Man of Storr hike, timing matters — not just for weather, but for light, crowds, and trail conditions. Like much of the Highlands, the Isle of Skye has a mind of its own when it comes to weather, and the landscape changes character depending on when you visit.

Best Season to Hike

The most popular months for hiking in Scotland are May through September, with July and August being peak tourist season. This is when you’ll get the longest daylight hours and (hopefully) the best weather. That said, with popularity comes crowds — especially in summer.

• May–June: Ideal for fewer midges, more stable weather, and blooming wildflowers.
• July–August: Warmest months but busiest; early starts are key.
• September–October: Cooler, more unpredictable weather but beautiful autumn colors and fewer people.

Time of Day: Sunrise vs. Sunset

If you can, hike the Old Man of Storr at sunrise. The early morning light over the landscape is incredible, and you’ll have a much better chance of enjoying it with fewer people around. I arrived just after 7:30 AM and the crowds were very low(although I was suprised at how many people were here so early with me). Even though the peaks were covered in clouds at first, they lifted gradually, creating some seriously magical views.

Sunset can also be stunning here, especially with the golden light hitting the rock formations from the west — just be prepared for a busier trail and bring a headlamp for the way down if you’re staying late.

Weather Considerations

Skye’s weather is famously unpredictable. You might experience sunshine, clouds, rain, and wind all within an hour. When I hiked, the weather changed dramatically several times in just a few hours. That’s part of what makes the experience so unique — the ever-shifting atmosphere feels like it belongs in a fantasy film.

Where to Stay Near the Old Man of Storr

If there’s one place in Scotland where it’s worth spending a little more on accommodation, it’s the Isle of Skye — and especially when planning to hike the Old Man of Storr. Skye is notoriously expensive for what you get, but honestly, I don’t regret a single penny I spent here. The landscapes are that good.

Staying on the island — and close to the trailhead — makes a huge difference. It means you can get an early start, avoid the day-tour crowds, and catch sunrise or golden hour without rushing. While Portree is the main hub with plenty of restaurants and shops, there are also some great options scattered across the north of the island, including some truly unique stays.

Top Accommodation Options Near the Old Man of Storr

Here are some standout places to stay, whether you’re after a cozy cabin or something a bit more refined. All of these are within easy reach of the hike and offer great access to the rest of Skye.

Hotels I Recommend Near the Old Man of Storr:

• The Flodigarry Hotel: A traditional Highland-style hotel near the Quiraing, offering incredible sea views and classic charm. Great for a peaceful, remote base with a touch of luxury. Book on Expedia | Book on Booking.com
• Bracken Hide Hotel: A modern, eco-conscious choice on the outskirts of Portree. Think stylish wooden cabins, a sauna, and a strong sustainability focus — a great fit for slow travel. Book on Expedia | Book on Booking.com
• Cuillin Hills Hotel: Located right above Portree Bay, this upscale hotel is all about the views. It’s a bit pricier, but the setting and service make it worth it if you’re looking to splurge. Book on Expedia | Book on Booking.com
• Skeabost House Hotel: Elegant, historic, and tucked along the river — this is a great option if you want peace and quiet but still be within easy driving distance of the Old Man of Storr. Book on Expedia | Book on Booking.com
• The Marmalade Hotel: A boutique hotel right in Portree, perfect if you want to be walkable to cafes and restaurants while still having easy access to the trailhead. Book on Expedia | Book on Booking.com

Hotels vs. Pods: What I Recommend

On my trip, I stayed in a self-contained pod just 20 minutes from the Old Man of Storr trailhead — and I loved it. These pods are small but comfortable, often with heating, private bathrooms, and amazing views right outside your door. They’re perfect if you just need a place to lay your head after long days exploring.

That said, if you’re after a little more comfort or luxury, there are some excellent hotels nearby too. It all depends on your travel style and budget.

Looking for a pod on the Isle of Skye? Find yours on Booking.com

What to Bring for the Old Man of Storr Hike

Even though the Old Man of Storr hike isn’t especially long or technical, the changing weather and uneven ground mean you’ll want to come prepared. Conditions can shift quickly on Skye — dry and clear one minute, then misty and raining the next. Having the right gear makes a huge difference in your comfort (and safety) on the trail.

This isn’t a full mountain expedition, but it’s also not a stroll in the park — here’s what I recommend packing.

Essential Gear for the Hike

• Sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes – Waterproof is best. The trail can be muddy and slick, especially after rain.
• Layers, layers, layers – Bring a moisture-wicking base layer, a warm mid-layer (like a fleece), and a waterproof jacket.
• Waterproof pants – Optional but helpful if the forecast calls for rain or wind.
• Daypack – A small backpack for your gear, snacks, and extra layers.
• Reusable water bottle – There are no facilities along the trail.
• Snacks – Even if you don’t plan to hike long, it’s nice to have something for the viewpoint.
• Phone or camera – Trust me, you’ll want photos. Just don’t forget to be present too.
• Offline map – AllTrails or OS Maps are great; cell service can be spotty.
• Hat & gloves – Even in summer, it can get cold up high.
• Headlamp – Essential if you’re doing sunrise or sunset hikes.
• Optional: Trekking poles – Helpful on the descent, especially in wet conditions.

Tips for Hiking the Old Man of Storr

Here are a few practical (and personal) tips to help you make the most of your hike — especially if it’s your first time on the Isle of Skye or hiking in Scotland.

• Arrive early – Before 8 AM if you can. It’s the best way to avoid crowds and find parking, and the light is often better for photos.
• Go beyond the main viewpoint – Most people stop at the first photo spot. If you push on a bit further, the crowds thin out and the views only get better.
• Allow 1.5 to 3 hours – The trail itself doesn’t take long, but you’ll want time to explore and take in the views. I spent nearly 4 hours here, just soaking it in.
• Don’t trust the weather app – Skye’s weather changes fast. If it looks gloomy, go anyway. The clouds often clear, and misty conditions add to the drama.
• Wear proper shoes – The trail can be muddy and slippery, especially in the off-season or after rain. This isn’t the place for white sneakers.
• Pack light but smart – Layers, water, snacks, and a camera or phone are really all you need — but make sure you have those essentials.
• Consider sunrise or sunset – Both times are stunning, especially with the ever-changing light. Just be prepared with a headlamp if you’re out late.
• Respect the landscape – Stick to the trail, take your rubbish with you, and don’t climb on fragile rock formations.
• Get Coffee & Cake after hike at Storr View Coffee – When you’ve finished your hike, be sure to pay a visit to the Storr View Coffee stand in the parking lot for delicious cakes and drinks.

Final Thoughts on Hiking the Old Man of Storr

The Old Man of Storr isn’t just one of the most iconic hikes on the Isle of Skye — it’s one of the most unforgettable hikes I’ve done anywhere in the world. It’s wild, dramatic, and constantly shifting with the weather and light. Even with the crowds during peak season, there’s something deeply personal about the experience once you’re up there among the rocks and silence.

For me, this hike was the highlight of an entire month in Scotland, and I think it’ll be the same for you — especially if you take your time with it. Don’t just hike up, snap a photo, and leave. Sit with it for a while. Let the clouds roll over, wait for the light to break through. That’s when the magic really happens.

If you’re planning a trip to the Isle of Skye, make the Old Man of Storr a priority. Stay nearby, go early, and pack for all kinds of weather — but more than anything, show up ready to be awed. This place delivers.

FAQs About the Old Man of Storr Hike on Isle of Skye

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