Torridon Ridge: Liathach via Coire Dubh

Liathach scores 7/10 for dog friendliness, and while there are no access restrictions preventing dogs from coming, the mountain demands a genuinely honest assessment of your dog's abilities. The terrain is rough quartzite and sandstone throughout, with significant elevation gain and narrow, exposed sections along the ridgeline. This is a route for fit, experienced hill dogs with good sure-footedness — not one for dogs unaccustomed to serious mountain terrain.

Off-lead potential is described as low across most of the route, given the technical and exposed nature of the ground. The narrow ridgeline sections and rough, rocky paths make keeping your dog under close control the sensible approach for the majority of the day. Water is plentiful in the corries and burns, which is one welcome plus for dogs on what is a demanding outing.

This is a full mountain day requiring experience, proper equipment and good navigation skills — for both you and your dog. The Coire Dubh route traverses Liathach from east to west, rising nearly 1,000 metres from Glen Torridon, so be prepared for a serious undertaking with significant ascent on rough, rocky paths. The Torridon Countryside Centre at the base of the mountain is worth a visit for local information, and the Torridon Inn in the village is dog-friendly if you need a well-earned stop afterwards.