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
Duncraig Castle from Innes Street Walk
The Duncraig Castle from Innes Street Walk is a fun, easy-going adventure tailor-made for the whole family! Cut through a path carved through lovely woodland with the occasional view along Loch Carron, to reach the expansive Duncraig Castle, constructed in 1866.
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The Saddle, Forcan Ridge and Sgùrr na Sgìne Walk
The Saddle, Forcan Ridge and Sgùrr na Sgìne Walk is a rugged adventure that boasts a thrilling challenge while unveiling quintessential views of the Scottish Highlands. There is one scramble section, but it can be avoided!
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Kyle of Durness Circular Walk
The Kyle of Durness Circular Walk packs a punch when it comes to the scenery! Gaze out into the coastline, pass a crumbling old school, and check out views of a quaint loch. At times, the path hugs close to the edges of cliffs, so take care along these sections.
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Foyers Falls Walk
The Foyers Falls Walk may be short, but it does not compromise on scenery. Wander the brief, easy-to-follow path to the falls dropping down a flora-covered rock face into a dark pool of water below!
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Hermit’s Castle Walk
The Hermit's Castle Walk is a fun, family-friendly adventure that reveals shimmering bright blue coastal scenery while leading you to a peculiar-looking stony castle overlooking the stunning seascape.
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Ord Hill Walk
If you still have some gas left in the tank or have a day between activities in the Highlands and need something to do, we can’t help but suggest the Ord Hill Walk! This adventure will get your blood pumping while immersing you in a forest setting as it leads towards a lovely view of Inverness below.
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Ben More and Stob Binnein Walk
The Ben More and Stob Binnein Walk is a superb, 9.8 km lollipop route that is every bit exhilarating as it is challenging. Although this walk isn’t suitable for those looking for a leisurely stroll, those keen to ascend two spectacular summits to take in awe-inspiring views across the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park will find their match. The walk features demanding ascents and descents of the Ben More and Stob Binnein peaks, opening to spellbinding views of Ben Lui and Ben Lawers and surrounding Lochs.
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Loch Katrine Walk
The Loch Katrine Walk can be enjoyed in both directions, from the Stronanachlar or Trossachs Pier. The option to sail back to the start point on a steamer ship makes this walk extra special. The linear trail isn’t particularly challenging but does cover a fair bit of ground with some steep sections interspersed. Ellen’s Isle on Loch Katrine inspired the fictional setting of the famous poem The Lady of the Lake written by Sir Walter Scott. The Loch is also the site of several fascinating historical events, like the imprisonment of the Duke of Montrose’s debt-collector by Robert Roy Macgregor on Factor’s Isle. The Loch features several small islands and a beautiful shoreline, making for a gorgeous outing.
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Loch Ard and Ghleannain Loch Walk
The Loch Ard and Ghleannain Loch Walk is a scenic, 6.8 km circular walk that invites you to take in the beautiful scenery of the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park and provides the opportunity to explore Rob Roy's Cave. Known as a folk hero in Scotland, outlaw Rob Roy is said to have hidden in the cave in the mid-1700s, and hillwalkers can brave the 2 m drop to explore his hideout on this walk. The hike also features stunning views of Loch Ard and the Ghleannain Loch.
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Sròn a Chlachain and Creag Buidhe Walk
The Sròn a'Chlachain and Creag Buidhe Walk is a challenging 4.0 km hill climb that first leads hillwalkers high above the village of Killin, achieving incredible views of Loch Tay and the tiny village below. The climb up the line of crags (Sròn a'Chlachain) is challenging but well-rewarded with further spectacular views. The second challenge of the walk is an ascent of Creag Bhuidhe, where you can press on to reach the summit at 510 m from where you’ll see the impressive, green Glen Lochay.
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Auchmore Circular Walk
The Auchmore Circular Walk is a delightful, easy route that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Unfolding on a scenic forest path, the Auchmore walk explores mixed woodlands on the south side of the River Dochart and the outskirts of the village, Killin. A section of the trail features awe-inspiring views of Loch Tay, opening to the Tarmachan Ridge, making for spellbinding scenery to enjoy while walking.
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Acharn Forest Walk
The Acharn Forest Walk is an easy circular trail through the beautiful native woodlands of the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park and is suitable for kids.
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River Eachaig and Massan Circular Walk
The River Eachaig and Massan Circular Walk follows a lovely trail that begins at the Benmore Botanic Gardens and then follows the riverbanks of the Massan and Eachaig. The route is mostly flat, making for a pleasant stroll, with a minor stretch on a rougher, less well-marked trail. Walkers can expect a scenic path through woods, a lovely bridge crossing over the River Eachaig, and can opt to explore the Benmore Botanic Gardens further, either before or after completion of the walk.
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Beinn Mhor Walk
The Beinn Mhor Walk is a fantastic hill walk that takes you to the highest peak in Cowal. Reaching the summit of Beinn Mhor, you’ll unlock incredible views across the highlands as well as Loch Eck and the Clyde Estuary. Rough terrain and boggy stretches make for a challenging hike, but the views from the summit make it well worth your while.
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Callander Heritage Trail
The delightful burgh of Callander in Stirling, Scotland, where the Lowland meets the Highland, is a lovely setting for a family stroll. The circular route takes in several historical sites throughout Callander, including Ancaster Square and the lion-topped war memorial, as well featuring gorgeous natural scenery like the River Teith.
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Inversnaid RSPB Nature Trail
This captivating nature trail that begins in Inversnaid sweeps you up in the beauty and peace of Loch Lomond as you enjoy a scenic walk along its oak-lined shores. The Inversnaid RSPB Nature Trail unfolds on clearly marked paths, and though it is not particularly long, it does incorporate some steep sections.
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Glen Loin and Coiregrograin Walk
A great walk for those looking to experience the beauty and might of the Arrochar Alps while enjoying a lengthy circuit without any significant climbs. Views throughout include Beinn Narnain, A’Chrois, Ben Vorlich, Ben Vane, Ben Lomond and more! This is a great route to practice photography, due to the diverse scenery and a solid path on a good road.
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Beinn an Lochain Walk
This is a fantastic walk for those looking to reach a summit in under 5 hours while enjoying the spectacular scenery of Scotland’s Arrochar Alps. A fairly brief, steep ascent with some minor scrambles rewards hillwalkers with marvellous views over Butterbridge and Beinn Ìme. The trail is extremely boggy in sections, and this, paired with a steep incline, makes proper footwear a must for this walk.
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Loch Sloy Walk
The Loch Sloy Walk begins in the small village of Inveruglas at the cordial Inveruglas Visitors Center. The starting point features a cozy cafe overlooking Loch Lomond and a great viewing platform. The trail follows a solid path through the hills and out towards the historic Loch Sloy Dam. Opt to stop when you reach the dam to enjoy a picnic or head back to the visitors center for a bite and hot drink after completing the trail.
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Beinn Chabhair Walk
The challenging hillwalk to the summit of Beinn Chabhair (933 m) is renowned for its spectacular views down over Loch Long and pleasant summit ridge composed of rocky humps and grassy knolls. The Beinglass Falls grace the route, adding a dose of extraordinary scenery beyond the surrounding hills. This is a great walk for those looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park for a half-day or so and the option to camp at the Beinglas Farm Campsite affords you the option to make this a combined hillwalking and camping adventure.