Best Walks in Scotland
Scotland is home to exceptional walking trails, winding through stunning green pastures, craggy mountain peaks, the billowy highlands and even charming villages. One of the best parts of walking in Scotland? An adventure is never far away and you don’t need to set out for hours to take in the natural beauty of the country.
Be sure to grab the whole family to enjoy walking in Scotland, with plenty for the little ones to see, like livestock roaming the fields, gushing waterfalls flowing from staggering heights, and for backpackers going it alone--they’ll find plenty of friendly locals and affordable, cosy inns to rest between walks.
But if you’re going to go walking in Scotland, then a trip to Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park should be a priority. Loch Lomond and the Trossachs is a great place for walking, thanks in part to the beautiful scenery, friendly locals and easy trails. Although it’s a relatively new National Park (Opened in 2002), Scotland’s Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park has been wowing visitors for a very long time. Similarly, Cairngorms National Park is a can’t miss destination. Home to some of Scotland’s most loved--and endangered animals-- you’re guaranteed some spectacular wildlife spotting. From the tranquil beaches of Loch Morlich to the rugged mountain range of Tolmount, the scenery will leave you marvelling at the beauty of this beloved national park.
10 Greatest Walks in Scotland
It might feel like you need to learn a new language when you’re walking in Scotland, so let us help you out. There are Lochs (lakes), Munros (mountains over 3,000 ft), and Bens (mountain peaks); however, there is one thing that is universally understood about this area: the outstanding beauty of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs.
The sweet, soft, rolling hills, the little bogs and, enchanting forests make you feel like you’re in a charming children’s story. Some of the best walks in this region are easy for a young family, but that doesn’t mean a couple Bens and Munros won’t give you a run for your money!
- The Great Trossachs Path 1: The Great Trossachs Path is a fantastic walk that is ideal for a weekend trip or a long summer day (for fit walkers). The TGTP provides instant access to the wonderful wilds of Scotland. From the bonny banks of Loch Lomond to Trossachs Pier at the head of Loch Katrine this is the first section of the Great Trossachs Path, the whole of which can be walked comfortably in two days.
- The Great Trossachs Path 2: The Great Trossachs Path is best experienced as a 2-day trip. TGTP is a long-distance path that can be reached easily from Edinburgh and Glasgow, and this is a great option for a quick fix of the wild! The second section takes you walking from Trossachs Pier to Callander and can be done as a day walk or as part of the exceptional Great Trossachs Path.
- Lochan Spling: Lochan Spling is a great Scottish walk for the whole family. Although just a short distance from the busy tourist town of Aberfoyle, you will find yourself in a calm and quiet spot surrounded by spectacular Scottish scenery.
- Ben Venue from Loch Achray: The walk to Ben Venue from Loch Achray is an absolutely exceptional hike. If you get lucky with the weather, the views across Loch Katrine, Ben Lomond and beyond are outstanding. The climb is steady going with several steeper sections where you need your hands, but this is one of our all-time favorite walks in the UK.
- Cashel Forest: The Cashel Forest walk is a short walk with a quick ascent. This route offers some superb views across Loch Lomond. There are several marked route options from the start point, with this option being the middle length.
- Callander Crags: The Callander Crags walk is a great walk for those staying in or around Callander. This short loop climbs quickly to provide far-reaching views over Callander and the Trossachs beyond. There is an option to extend your walk and visit Bracklinn Falls as well as the Jubilee Cairn.
- Ben Lomond: This hike up Ben Lomond goes up an extremely popular mountain, but it is well worth joining the masses for the superb views down to Loch Lomond and the surrounding hills. Opting for the Ptarmigan ridge on the descent makes for a quieter and more interesting return from the summit.
- Conic Hill: The Conic Hill walk is a short but steep hike from Balmaha, which takes you to the summit of Conic Hill. From the top the views out across Loch Lomond and its many islands are truly incredible. This is a great walk especially if looking for something a little bit shorter.
- Loch Venachar: Loch Venachar is a longish, low-level hike that walks you around the perimeter of Loch Venachar. There are super views of the Loch and surrounding mountains throughout. Make use of all the wonderful spots to stop and enjoy the countryside on this pretty walk.
- Ben A’an: The walk up Ben A’an is a fun walk up what is commonly referred to as a mini mountain in Scotland. This walk offers superb views, a steep climb and a picture perfect (mini) mountain. Views from the top are sensational due to its central position within the Trossachs.
When is the Best Time to Hike in Scotland
Those who prefer milder temperatures and sunny days will love Scotland during the springtime. In recent years, April and May has boasted some of the best weather across the U.K. and makes for pleasant hiking days. July and August tend to be the sunniest months and can also be beautiful for hiking, though you do have to prepare for some rainstorms that can come through on muggy days.
Best Regions to Hike in Scotland
Scotland is famed for its natural, rugged beauty and there is certainly no shortage of stunning regions to hike across the country. Loch Lomond And The Trossachs National Park are a local favourite, nestled on the cusp of the Scottish Highlands. Here, you’ll find taller peaks, glistening lakes and rolling, verdant hills - a hiker's dream and our favourite hiking destination in Scotland. And at Scotland's other national park, Cairngorms National Park, you’ll discover paths made for a steep, fun climb or gentler, rolling paths perfect for a quick jaunt. The park is massive and if you spend extensive time here, you’ll pass varying landscapes of lochs, mountains, rivers...and even a distillery or two.
Other Activities in Scotland
Scotland is a popular destination for hiking and backpacking, but it’s also an amazing country for cyclists. From graded paths passing through quaint, quiet villages to mountains that prove a true challenge to conquer, Scotland is one of the most scenic countries to hop on two wheels. You’ll also find a cyclist pub culture here, with groups of locals biking from one pub to the next for a fun afternoon.
Scotland's Adventure Tours
For a once in a lifetime walking or cycling tour, look no further than the 10Adventures collection of Scotland tours. Check out the capital city of Edinburgh for a blend of culture and urban sightings or explore the stunning highlands on foot for an epic walking adventure. Whether you’re interested in a quick day trip or a multi-week excursion, 10Adventures Tours has got you covered.
How to Plan a Trip to Scotland
Already packing your bags for a walking holiday in Scotland? We don’t blame you! We’ve curated a comprehensive guide to exploring the best of Scotland to take the guesswork out of planning your trip. Whether you’re planning on visiting Loch Lomond And the Trossachs National Park or Walking to the Highlands, we’ve got the 4-1-1.
Hiking regions in Scotland
Best Hikes in Scotland
Cairn of Gowal Loop
The Cairn of Gowal Loop is a rough and rugged excursion in Cairngorms National Park that will take you over a number of peaks for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. While out walking the trail, you will climb uphill through a glen along the River South Esk, before traversing a series of peaks overlooking Loch Muick and Dubh Loch. This is no doubt a challenging adventure, but the stunning mountain scenery and feeling of accomplishment will certainly be worth the effort.
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Loch Morlich to Nethy Bridge Walk
The Loch Morlich to Nethy Bridge Walk is a fun one-way trail in Cairngorms National Park that will lead you through a variety of terrain with scenic views. While out walking the trail, you will leave the picturesque shores of Loch Morlich behind to traverse the hills to the northeast, after which, you will pass through a vast atmospheric stretch of woodland terrain on the way into Nethy Bridge. Walkers should take note that this is a one-way trail, so be sure to make travel arrangements for the return leg of the journey if you wish to head back to Glenmore.
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Loch an Eilein, Loch Gamhna, Old Logging Way Loop
The Loch an Eilein, Loch Gamhna, Old Logging Way Loop is a wonderful walking trail in Cairngorms National Park that features a variety of terrain and interesting historical sites. While out on the trail, you will enjoy scenic views of Loch Eilein and its 14th Century island castle, before passing through the boggy terrain surrounding Loch Gamhna and the woodland landscape to the northeast. This is a wonderful route if you enjoy historical, wildlife, or nature views.
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Beinn Udlamain Munro and Sgairneach Mhòr Walk
The Beinn Udlamain Munro and Sgairneach Mhòr Walk is a rugged and exciting journey in Cairngorms National Park that will see you climb up into the mountains south of Dalwhinnie for stunning views. While out walking the trail, you will work your way uphill alongside Allt Coire Dhomhaine to reach the summits of Sgairneach Mhòr and Beinn Udlamain, where you will enjoy spectacular views of Loch Ericht. This walk is definitely a leg burner, so be sure to take your time, wear sturdy walking boots, and bring plenty of water.
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Glen Banvie Trail and Blair Castle Walk
The Glen Banvie Trail and Blair Castle Walk is a great adventure in Cairngorms National Park that takes in the grounds of an historic estate and its scenic surroundings. While out on the trail, you will skirt around the grounds of Blair Castle - the ancestral home of Clan Murray - before making your way through Glen Banvie to explore the hills and forests to the northwest. The mixture of historic sites, rugged terrain, and beautiful scenery makes this an exceptional walking route for a wide variety of outdoor enthusiasts.
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Talisker Bay Trail
The Talisker Bay Trail makes for a relaxing family adventure! Nothing beats the swirl of sea-scented air and an image of soft waves lapping onto the shore while a sea stack and a grassy cliffside create a pretty backdrop. So bring a picnic and aim to go when the tide is low!
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Old Man of Storr Walk
The Old Man of Storr Walk is an incredibly popular walk—and for good reason. This walk winds to one of the most evocative natural spots: the unique rock formations making up the Old Man of Storr. Near the start of the walk, you’ll reach a stunning overview of the Isle of Raasay and Applecross, a remote peninsula. The Old Man of Storr Walk sure knows how to pack a collection of supernatural scenery into a short 4.5 km adventure!
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Stac Pollaidh Circular Walk
Don’t have a lot of time, but want to pack an epic adventure into a few hours? The Stac Pollaidh Circular Walk gifts you an intense workout while incredible scenery unravels around you! Of course, with the steep elevation gain also comes a technical trail and some minor scrambling, but hey, the vistas of Assynt, Summer Isles, and Loch Veyatie will have you forgetting all about your exasperated lungs and elevated heart rate.
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Stac Pollaidh Walk
If you're looking for an easy stroll, the Stac Pollaidh Walk isn't it! This walk is challenging, technical and fun for those with walking and scrambling experience. Expect to feast on views of Assynt to the north, Summer Isles to the southwest, and Loch Veyatie in the northwest. The Stac Pollaidh Walk may be under 5.0 km, but it definitely packs a punch when it comes to scenery and adventure!
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Buachaille Etive Mòr Walk
The Buachaille Etive Mòr Walk is a tailor-made adventure for avid hillwalkers seeking something rugged, wild, and intense. This lollipop route will not only have you bagging one Munro but two—Stob Dearg and Stob na Bròige. These summits are just two of the four that stagger across the ever-so-stunning Buachaille Etive Mòr ridge, and you'll tackle them all during this walk! The valley views paired with a sightline with peaks add a level of epic and unforgettableness to this challenging but rewarding Highland adventure.
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Sandwood Bay Walk
The Sandwood Bay Walk may be slightly long, but the lower elevation gain makes for a fantastic adventure for families! After walking along desolate moorland, the unspoiled Sandwood Bay will wash these average views away with its golden sand contrasted with the shimmering seascape, sea stack, and cliffs. Look out for marine animals while resting on the beach!
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Suilven Walk
Looking for the ultimate day-long adventure? The Suilven Walk will keep you well entertained! Expect to travel around 20.0 km as you ascend one of Scotland’s favourite summits: Suilven (731 m). Before reaching the true summit, you’ll trek through a compilation of mystical scenery, earning the chance to admire the Highlands’ landscape alongside you and below you. Once you’ve reached the pinnacle of Suilven, you’ll retrace your steps back to the car park, which some may find uninspiring, but this adventure makes it worth passing the same scenery twice!
Expect some minor scrambling and steep ascents along the Suilven Walk. Hopefully, the incredible surroundings will minimize any moans and groans and huffs and puffs.
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Quiraing Circuit Walk
The Quiraing Circuit Walk may seem easy, but this hill loop will have you huffing and puffing, guaranteed! Most opt to stop after the first section; however, this route gives you a chance to revel in the ever-so-mystical scenery just a little bit longer. Go past the Needle, Prison, and other epic Highland wonders on this short but rewarding adventure. Be sure to charge your camera and get ready to capture image after image of the landscape unravelling in front of you!
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Ben Hope Walk
Looking for an intense, rewarding adventure in the remote, desolate wild? The Ben Hope Walk climbs a steep ascent towards an incredibly scenic and isolated view of the wilderness decorated with soaring peaks, lochans, and the faraway sea fading toward the Arctic. This out-and-back route is shorter but packs a punch by having you bag a Munro in under 8.0 km.
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Neist Point Walk
The Neist Point Walk has earned a reputation for being one of the most stunning adventures in the Isle of Skye—and for good reason. This excursion takes you along a path flanked by the tumbling sea on both sides of the jagged cliffs that leads toward a lighthouse built in 1909. Take care if you're walking with children or dogs as you're surrounded by unfenced cliffs —if you stay on the path and keep your dog on a lead, you'll be fine!
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Behind Liathach Walk
Explore the natural character carved throughout the Behind Liathach Walk. There’s just something magical about revelling in the quirky views and scenery, such as corries, waterfalls, and grassy slopes and rocky surroundings at the bottom of steep mountain slopes. First, you’ll feel like a character in an epic fantasy before a charming fairytale setting takes over. The imagery along this hike is fun and exciting—and you can’t see the views from the road!
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Beinn Eighe Mountain Trail
The Beinn Eighe Mountain Trail travels through varied terrain, following a waymarked path—Britain's singular waymarked mountain trail! But don’t let the fact that it’s waymarked fool you into thinking it’s easy. This walk climbs a steep elevation gain in a short time, with exposure at the top and more technical, rocky sections along the trail. But, despite this, every second along the Beinn Eighe Mountain Trail is worth the lung burn!
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Needle Rock, The Storr and The Old Man of Storr Circular Walk
You can’t go to the Isle of Skye and skip out on the incredible Needle Rock, The Storr and The Old Man of Storr Circular Walk. It’s surreal standing among the spiral rock formations jetting out of a grassy slope. Plus, then there’s Needle Rock, which elevates this adventure’s level of epic! With stone steps, grassy slopes adorned with soaring rock structures, viewpoints of Isle of Raasay (and more), the Needle Rock, The Storr and The Old Man of Storr Circular Walk really packs a punch when it comes to entertaining scenery.
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Corrieshalloch Gorge Viewpoint Walk
Looking for a short, family-friendly adventure that doesn’t compromise on scenery? The Corrieshalloch Gorge Viewpoint Walk will serve you just right! Winding across a suspension bridge to a viewing platform, this adventure opens up stunning waterfall views! Also, look out for gorgeous countryside scenery accentuated by Loch Broom as you walk.
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Bidean nam Bian Walk
The Bidean nam Bian Walk takes you deep into the Scottish Highlands, unveiling an up-close snapshot of the unruly landscape throughout—whether you’re atop a summit, climbing, or walking the valley. This strenuous route has you bagging two Munros, Bidean nam Bian and Stob Coire Sgreamhach, and immersing in Glen Coe, a tucked-away valley flanked by mountain slopes. If you’re an experienced hillwalker seeking a challenge, the Bidean nam Bian Walk will fulfill your needs!