Clisham Mountain
Highest mountain of the Outer Hebrides with rugged ridges
On the Isle of Harris, Clisham is the Outer Hebrides' highest peak; hillwalkers tackle steep ridges for wide views over Lewis, sea lochs and heather moor.
Clisham at a Glance#
About Clisham#
Clisham is the highest mountain of the Outer Hebrides, located on the Isle of Harris in Scotland, with a summit at 799 metres. It is the island’s most prominent upland feature and a frequent objective for hillwalkers.
The mountain does not have a significant built history; it has long been used for grazing and local hillwalking and features in modern recreational mapping and guidebooks.
Situated in North Harris, Clisham rises above the surrounding moorland and loch-filled terrain of the Outer Hebrides, accessible from the island’s road network and near the settlement of Tarbert.
- Height: Summit elevation is 799 metres, making it the highest point in the Outer Hebrides.
- Access: Common ascent routes start from the A859 road and from the village of Tarbert, with steep, path-exposed sections on the climb.
How to Get to Clisham#
Trailheads are accessed from Harris roads; the common approach begins near the village of Tarbert. The island is served by ferry and local flights to Stornoway; from there drive or use local transport to Harris.
Tips for Visiting Clisham#
- Start early to avoid afternoon cloud banks that can roll in and spoil summit views.
- Check tide and ferry schedules for outer-Hebridean crossings if combining the climb with island travel.
- Wear windproof layers; the mountain's exposed ridges magnify sea-swept weather.
Best Time to Visit Clisham#
Summit attempts are safest in summer when routes are least affected by winter snow and storms.
Weather & Climate near Clisham#
Clisham's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with cool summers (peaking in July) and cold winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 1°C to 14°C. Abundant rainfall (1768 mm/year), wettest in November.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 5°C and lows of 1°C. Significant rainfall (189 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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February
February is the coolest month with highs of 5°C and lows of 1°C. Significant rainfall (142 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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March
March is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of 2°C. Significant rainfall (167 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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April
April is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 3°C. Significant rainfall (103 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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May
May is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 5°C. Regular rainfall (85 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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June
June is cool with highs of 13°C and lows of 8°C. Regular rainfall (92 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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July
July is cool with highs of 14°C and lows of 10°C. Significant rainfall (108 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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August
August is cool with highs of 14°C and lows of 10°C. Significant rainfall (123 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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September
September is cool with highs of 12°C and lows of 8°C. Significant rainfall (169 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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October
October is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 6°C. Significant rainfall (199 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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November
November is cold with highs of 7°C and lows of 3°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (201 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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December
December is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of 2°C. Significant rainfall (190 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
