Discover the Beauty of Scotland’s Top 25 Walking Trails
Scotland is celebrated for its dramatic landscapes, from majestic mountains and serene lochs to rugged coastlines and ancient forests. Walking these trails is one of the finest ways to truly immerse yourself in the country’s natural splendour. Whether you seek challenging hikes or peaceful ambles, Scotland’s trails cater to adventurers of all levels.
In this article, we will explore the top 25 walking trails in Scotland. Each trail offers something special, from historical landmarks to stunning vistas, ensuring an enriching experience for every hiker. We’ll also share essential gear and safety tips for walking trails, the best time to hike in Scotland, and how to avoid midges. So lace up your boots and get ready to discover the beauty of Scotland on foot!
1. The West Highland Way
Location: Milngavie to Fort William
Distance: 96 miles (154 km)
Highlights: Rolling hills, lochs, rugged mountains, historic sites
The West Highland Way is Scotland’s most iconic long-distance trail. It traverses a variety of landscapes, from the gentle rolling hills near Glasgow to the dramatic peaks of the Highlands. Along the way, you’ll pass by charming villages, serene lochs, and historic landmarks, offering a comprehensive taste of Scotland’s natural beauty.
2. The John Muir Way
Location: Helensburgh to Dunbar
Distance: 134 miles (216 km)
Highlights: Cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow, nature reserves, stunning views
Named after the renowned naturalist, the John Muir Way spans a variety of landscapes, from bustling cities to tranquil coastlines. This trail offers a blend of cultural and natural experiences, reflecting John Muir’s love for the natural world.
3. The Great Glen Way
Location: Fort William to Inverness
Distance: 79 miles (127 km)
Highlights: Great Glen, Loch Ness, ancient castles
Following the natural fault line of the Great Glen, this trail connects the west and east coasts of Scotland. The route is relatively flat, making it accessible for all abilities. The journey features lush forests, sparkling lochs, and the legendary Loch Ness, offering picturesque views and a chance to delve into the country’s rich history.
4. The West Island Way
Location: Isle of Bute
Distance: 25 miles (40 km)
Highlights: Rugged coastlines, historic castles, charming harbours
Explore the beautiful Isle of Bute on the West Island Way. This trail offers a mix of coastal and inland scenery, including tranquil forests and rolling hills. Discover historic sites, quaint harbours, and stunning views of the Firth of Clyde.
5. The Speyside Way
Location: Buckie to Aviemore
Distance: 65 miles (105 km)
Highlights: Whisky distilleries, River Spey, picturesque villages
For whisky enthusiasts, the Speyside Way is a dream come true. This trail winds through the heart of Speyside, a region renowned for its whisky distilleries. Following the River Spey, you’ll enjoy scenic landscapes and have the opportunity to visit some of Scotland’s finest distilleries.
6. The Southern Upland Way
Location: Portpatrick to Cockburnspath
Distance: 212 miles (341 km)
Highlights: Moorlands, forests, wildlife
Scotland’s longest walking trail, the Southern Upland Way, stretches across the southern uplands. This challenging route takes you through diverse landscapes, including rolling hills and remote moorlands. Keep an eye out for red deer and golden eagles as you traverse this historical and wildlife-rich path.
7. The Fife Coastal Path
Location: Kincardine to Newburgh
Distance: 117 miles (188 km)
Highlights: Fishing villages, historic castles, rocky cliffs
Hugging the coast of the Kingdom of Fife, this trail provides breathtaking views of the North Sea. Pass through charming fishing villages, visit historic castles, and enjoy the natural beauty of rocky cliffs and sandy beaches.
8. The Rob Roy Way
Location: Drymen to Pitlochry
Distance: 79 miles (127 km)
Highlights: Trossachs, Loch Lomond, historical sites
Follow in the footsteps of the legendary Scottish outlaw Rob Roy MacGregor. This trail takes you through the Trossachs and Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, offering a journey through Scotland’s history and stunning natural scenery.
9. The Cateran Trail
Location: Blairgowrie circular route
Distance: 64 miles (103 km)
Highlights: Grampian Mountains, ancient forests, diverse wildlife
This circular route explores the rugged Grampian Mountains and ancient forests of northeast Scotland. The Cateran Trail is known for its rich cultural and natural heritage, and you’ll likely spot wildlife such as red deer and golden eagles along the way.
10. The Arran Coastal Way
Location: Isle of Arran
Distance: 65 miles (105 km)
Highlights: Rocky cliffs, sandy beaches, fishing villages
Often referred to as “Scotland in Miniature,” the Isle of Arran offers a diverse landscape that includes everything from rocky cliffs to sandy beaches. The Arran Coastal Way circumnavigates the island, providing stunning coastal views and opportunities to explore its rich history.
11. Ben More on the Isle of Mull
Location: Isle of Mull
Distance: 6 miles (9.7 km)
Highlights: Munro summit, sea views, wildlife
Ben More is the highest peak on the Isle of Mull and offers sensational views of the island and beyond. This challenging hike rewards you with panoramic vistas of the Atlantic and the chance to spot white-tailed eagles.
12. The Uath Lochans in the Cairngorms
Location: Cairngorms National Park
Distance: 2.5 miles (4 km)
Highlights: Caledonian pine forests, lochs, wildlife
A shorter, easier walk, the Uath Lochans offers stunning views of the Cairngorms without requiring a long hike. Enjoy the serene beauty of Caledonian pine forests and picturesque lochans, perfect for a relaxing day out in nature.
13. Ben Lomond
Location: Loch Lomond
Distance: 8 miles (12.9 km)
Highlights: Loch Lomond views, scenic path, wildlife
Ben Lomond, Scotland’s most southerly Munro, provides an accessible yet rewarding climb. The views of Loch Lomond and the surrounding hills are simply spectacular, making this a popular choice for first-time Munro climbers.
14. The Old Man of Hoy in Orkney
Location: Isle of Hoy, Orkney
Distance: 6 miles (10 km)
Highlights: Sea stack, coastal views, historical sites
The Old Man of Hoy is a dramatic sea stack on the Isle of Hoy. This scenic hike offers breathtaking views of the sandstone cliffs and the surrounding coastline, making it a must-visit for those exploring Orkney.
15. Blà Bheinn (Blaven) on the Isle of Skye
Location: Isle of Skye
Distance: 5 miles (8 km)
Highlights: Cuillin ridge views, rugged terrain, wildlife
Blà Bheinn, also known as Blaven, is one of the most stunning Munros on the Isle of Skye. The climb offers incredible views of the Cuillin ridge and the surrounding islands, making it a favourite among seasoned hikers.
16. Liathach in Glen Torridon
Location: East of Glen Cottage
Distance: 7.5 miles (12km)
Highlights: A demanding, remote Munro
Considered by many as the most beautiful Munro in Scotland, Liathach in Glen Torridon is a challenging hike suited for experienced hikers. From the start, the steep elevation makes the climb seem daunting. However, the rewards are magnificent. On reaching the ridgeline, you’ll get stunning views of Torridon and continue with ups and downs on the ridgeline. Expect a lot of scrambling, exposed paths, and tricky ridge spots. This hike also includes bagging two Munros: Spidean a’Choire Leith and Mullach an Rathain. Exceptional care and planning are needed for this climb.
17 . The Eildon Hills from Melrose
Location: Melrose
Distance: 6.2 miles (10km)
Highlights: A day in the Scottish Borders
This delightful hike starts in the historic market town of Melrose. Following signs for the St. Cuthbert’s Way, you quickly gain vantage points over Melrose and Galashiels. The Eildon Hills, with their volcanic origins, offer distinct scenery. You’ll climb Eildon Mid Hill, then head to Eildon Wester and Eildon North. The views over the Borders, including the historic Leaderfoot Viaduct, are spectacular. The hike includes visiting the Rhymer’s Stone and exploring Melrose Abbey, dating back to 1136 AD.
18. Walk to the Pink House on Loch Glass, in Easter Ross
Location: Eileanach Lodge (out-and-back)
Distance: 3.5 miles (5.6km) from Eileanach Lodge and back
Highlights: A quirky hike without the crowds
From Eileanach Lodge, stroll through a forest towards Loch Glass, where you’ll see the abandoned pink Culzie Lodge and the crags of Ben Wyvis. This landscape, seen in the TV show *The Traitors*, is beautiful and relatively isolated. You can continue to Evanton through Black Rock Gorge, featured in *Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire*. If walking from Eileanach Lodge to Evanton, the hike is about 8 miles (12.8km) and takes 5-6 hours.
19. The Five Sisters of Kintail
Location: Glen Shiel car park/Allt a’ Chruinn
Distance: 9.5 miles (15.2km)
Highlights: A huge day in remarkable mountains
Near the Isle of Skye and Loch Duich, this demanding ridge walk includes the Munros of Sgùrr na Ciste Duibhe, Sgùrr na Càrnach, and Sgùrr Fhuaran. Starting with a tough climb to Bealach an Lapain, the hardest part is over early. The ridgeline offers breathtaking views over Loch Duich and surrounding peaks. Plan your route carefully, as there are alternative exit points if you want to hike just some of the Five Sisters.
20. Fairy Pools
Location: Isle of Skye
Distance: 2.6 miles (4.2 km)
Highlights: Scenic waterfalls and swimming spots
Located in Glen Brittle on the Isle of Skye, the Fairy Pools are a popular destination. This moderate trail follows a gravel path along the Allt Coir’ a’ Mhadaidh, featuring enchanting pools and waterfalls. There are stepping stones to navigate, and you can swim in the icy waters. Parking fees are mandatory, and it’s best to arrive early due to the site’s popularity.
21. The Quiraing Circuit
Location: Isle of Skye
Distance: 4.2 miles (6.8 km)
Highlights: Iconic landscapes and geological features
This trail on the Isle of Skye offers striking cliffs formed by an ancient landslip, narrow passages, and steep drops. Starting along a well-defined path, the trail includes a scramble across a gully and passes interesting rock formations like the Prison. The trail requires careful navigation, appropriate footwear, and is best attempted in calm, clear weather. Views over Staffin Bay and Torridon are highlights. Allow extra time for this trail due to its difficulty.
22. Arthur’s Seat
Location: Edinburgh
Distance: 2.6 miles (4.3 km)
Highlights: An ancient volcano, giving excellent view of the city
Experience a hill walk with stunning views over Edinburgh from the 251-meter high summit of Arthur’s Seat. The path is a mix of surfaced tracks, grassy paths, and rocky sections. It’s formed from an extinct volcano and offers a surprising wilderness feel for a city-centre location.
23. Glenfinnan Viaduct Circular
Location: Glenfinnan
Distance: 2.5 miles (3.9 km)
Highlights: Superb views of the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct and of Loch Shiel
Enjoy panoramic views of the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct and Loch Shiel. The trail includes a gentle path with a steeper climb to viewpoints. Popular for its Harry Potter film fame, it also features a museum at the train station.
24. Steall Falls Path
Location: Fort William, Highlands
Distance: 2.5 miles (3.7 km)
Highlights: The most incredible waterfall surrounded by breathtaking Highland scenery
This trail leads through Steall Gorge to the breathtaking Steall Waterfall. The path is narrow and rocky in places, requiring careful footing. Starting from Glen Nevis Road, the route offers stunning gorge and waterfall views.
25. West Highland Way: Kinlochleven to Fort William
Location: Start at Kinlochleven
Distance: 15.6 miles (25.1 km)
Highlights: The final stage of the West Highland Way
The final section of the West Highland Way takes you from Kinlochleven to Fort William. It features woodland, moorland, and Highland views, ending near Ben Nevis. The route includes scenic descents and follows the River Nevis to the finish.
Essential Gear and Safety Tips for Walking Trails
To ensure a safe and enjoyable hiking experience in Scotland, here are some essential tips and gear recommendations:
– Footwear: Wear well-fitting, waterproof hiking boots with good traction.
– Clothing: Layer your clothing for weather changes, and bring rain gear, gloves, and a warm hat.
– Navigation: Carry a map, compass, and GPS device, or download a reliable navigation app.
– Hydration and Nutrition: Pack plenty of water and high-energy snacks.
– First-Aid Kit: Include basic medical supplies like bandages, antiseptic, and pain medication.
– Safety Precautions: Inform someone of your planned route and expected return time. Carry a charged mobile phone or a satellite communication device.
When is the Best Time to Hike in Scotland?
The best time for hiking in Scotland is from June to August, the busiest but driest period. April and September can offer fewer crowds and fewer midges but be prepared for unpredictable weather. Winter (November-March) brings snowfall, requiring appropriate gear and experience. Always be prepared for all weather conditions with proper clothing and equipment.
Avoiding the Midges
Midges are a nuisance from March to September, especially in warm, damp, and still conditions. They dislike wind, rain, and cold weather. Use insect repellent, such as Smidge, and consider wearing protective clothing to avoid bites.
Why not take the plunge and experience the beauty of Scotland’s trails firsthand? At Highland Experience, we offer private guided tours that focus on the best trails in Scotland. Let us create a unique tour tailored to your preferences, ensuring you make the most of your Scottish adventure. Visit our website to start planning your unforgettable journey through Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes.
