Walks in The Highlands of Scotland
Activities in The Highlands
Feel the ghosts of legends, traditions, bloody clan clashes, and stories harking back centuries while walking in the Highlands. Seriously—there's no better way to immerse in the incredible scenery sweeping Scotland's north. Whether you're summiting Ben Nevis, several Munros in one go, or exploring mystical gorges, the folklore imagery will transport you to some time in the past, where legends dictated ways of life and non-fiction happenings survive as often-told tales today. The best part is that you don't need to be an advanced hillwalker to experience the phenomenal scenery the Highlands has to offer. Almost all ages will find trails leading to castles, viewpoints, summits, through glens that give glimpses of the great yore of the Highlands.
The 10 Greatest Walks in the Highlands
Sift through the list of epic walks in the Highlands below, choose your favourites, lace up your boots and off you go! Pack a range of walks into your visit to the Highlands: gloomy and misty gorge meanders speckled with glistening waterfalls, seaside strolls, moderate to intense hill walks for an unveiling of magical scenery, bagging Munros (sometimes several in one adventure) to reach incredible viewpoints, family-friendly walks leading to castles, forest and moorland explorations, and trails hugging fairytale lochs…
What we're trying to say is that the wild landscapes never cease to amaze or end! When you’re out and about, be sure to look out for wild Highland cows, the Scottish wildcat often confused with a lost house cat, golden eagles, humpback whale, puffins, the rare red squirrel, dolphins, and red deer.
Not sure where to start? Take a look at some of the best walks in the Highlands below!
- Ben Nevis Mountain Path Walk - Tackle the most straightforward path leading to the ever-so rewarding summit of Ben Nevis! We suggest taking on a few other hillwalks before attempting this unforgettable, bucket-list worthy adventure—come prepared for snow as well, even in the summer.
- Old Man of Storr Walk - Revel in the fascinating rock formations making up the Old Man of Storr on this epic, short adventure! We've ranked the Old Man of Storr Walk as best for older children only due to some steep sections and rockfall potential on rainier days. Nevertheless, this is one of the best walks to do when visiting the Isle of Skye.
- Stac Pollaidh Walk - Are you looking for an easy adventure? Skip this one. The Stac Pollaidh Walk may be short, but it's definitely not for the faint of heart! After a steep elevation gain, bask in views of Assynt, Summer Isles, and Loch Veyatie. Get ready for a highlight reel of vistas jam-packed into a few kilometres.
- Buachaille Etive Mòr Walk - Bag two Munros on the Buachaille Etive Mòr Walk (Stob Dearg and Stob na Bròige)! But that's not all! The Buachaille Etive Mòr ridge boasts four summits, and guess what? You'll tackle all four on this unruly, intense, and enriching adventure, where a sightline filled with staggering peaks awaits!
- Sandwood Bay Walk - Gather your family and head out to one of—if not the—best beaches in Scotland, the pristine Sandwood Bay. Drop your jaw at the untouched golden sand illuminated by the glistening seascape, cliffs, and sea stack! Maybe you'll even spot a marine animal or two.
- Suilven Walk - Wishing to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life for a full day? The Suilven Walk will grant you this wish! Enjoy an unveiling of mystical views as you ascend Suilven (731 m). Be prepared to take on some minor scrambling and steep climbs—it’ll all be worth it in the end!
- Steall Falls and the Nevis Gorge Walk - Fall in love with the dramatic imagery coating Nevis Gorge as you make your way to the tumbling Steall Falls! This short walk makes for a fun and memorable adventure for the entire family!
- Quiraing Circuit Walk - The Quiraing Circuit Walk may seem relaxing, but your heart will shoot up along this hill loop! Thankfully, the folklore-like, mystical, supernatural scenery will divert your attention from any huffs and puffs. Walk by Needle, Prison, and various Highland natural wonders on this bang-for-your-buck adventure. Older children will enjoy this one!
- Neist Point Walk - The Neist Point Walk is another must-do adventure on the Isle of Skye. Follow a path surrounded by cliffs dropping into the swirling sea below as you head towards a lighthouse harking back to 1909. This walk is family-friendly, but keep your kids close and don’t stray off the path!
- Pap of Glencoe Walk - Gain a significant elevation in a short distance to reach 360-views of Loch Leven nestled in front of the Mamroes range on the Pap of Glencoe Walk. This walk is definitely a Highlands highlight!
When Is The Best Time To Walk in the Highlands?
While you can do most walks year-round, we suggest tackling most routes between May and October when there’s a higher chance of drier and clear conditions. However, some routes may still hold snow deep into the summer, making it essential to always research conditions before you go and come prepared. It’s also common to experience windy conditions. Pack layers to stay warm on hillwalks with a lot of exposure!
Best Regions for Walking in the Highlands
The Highlands boasts several incredible regions! To start, we suggest going to Fort William, Inverness, or the Isle of Skye, where amazing adventures await.
Other Outdoor Activities in the Highlands
While walking through the forest, moorland, alongside lochs and coastlines, bagging a Munro, and summiting hills sit atop the list of adventures in the Highlands; you'll also find a collection of other things to do! Go sea swimming and birdwatching in Assynt, check out Loch Ness and the Urquhart Castle near Inverness, go mountain biking and road biking in and around Fort William and Inverness (to start, anyway), and kayak riveting sea waters around Shetland, Orkney, and the Outer Hebrides. Honestly, the list of things to do in the Highlands is endless!
Adventure Tours in the Highlands
Not in the mood to plan your own adventure? We’ve got you covered! Discover some of the best adventure tours in Scotland has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Scottish Highlands known for?
Other than holding unforgettable legends and fables, the Highlands have set the scene for other stories to come to life, such as Harry Potter and Outlander. The Highlands is also known for producing whisky!
Where do the Highlands start?
Starting from Fort William, the Highlands continue by Skye, bending around North Coast 500 to the far north towards Durness and John O’Groats, then past Inverness and Elgin in the east.
Can you go wild camping in the Highlands?
Wild camping is allowed throughout Scotland, but due to heavy traffic, some areas are subject to more rules or may require you to book a campsite. Learn more about wild camping in Scotland here.
Are most trails dog-friendly in the Highlands?
Yes! However, some routes may not be suitable or safe for dogs, so be sure to check out this information before you take your furry friend along on your adventures.
Find other amazing walking regions in the UK:
Displaying 45 of 56 routes
Route guides for Hiking in The Highlands
0 hours
144 hours
0 km85 km
0
5
0
10
•
Ben Nevis Mountain Path Walk Route Guide
Tackling Scotland’s Ben Nevis Mountain Path Walk is no easy feat! This adventure is best reserved for experienced hillwalkers, especially since snow usually cloaks the ground, adding yet another challenging component to overcome. However, after gaining a significant amount of elevation, nothing beats the feeling of standing atop the UK’s highest mountain with the views of the Highlands stretching into the horizon below. The route described below follows the most straightforward path to summit Ben Nevis!
If you're planning on bagging this Munro and are relatively new to hillwalking, we suggest avoiding this during the winter months when the route can get super technical. It can even hold snow during the summer. The bottom line: come prepared with the proper equipment for various weather conditions, even if you're walking in summer.
•
Old Man of Storr Walk Route Guide
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 2.8mi adventure!
•
Stac Pollaidh Circular Walk Route Guide
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.
•
Stac Pollaidh Walk Route Guide
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 3.1mi, but it definitely packs a punch when it comes to scenery and adventure!
•
Buachaille Etive Mòr Walk Route Guide
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.
•
Sandwood Bay Walk Route Guide
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!
•
Suilven Walk Route Guide
Looking for the ultimate day-long adventure? The Suilven Walk will keep you well entertained! Expect to travel around 12.4mi as you ascend one of Scotland’s favourite summits: Suilven (2398ft). 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.
•
Quiraing Circuit Walk Route Guide
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!
•
Ben Hope Walk Route Guide
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 5.0mi.
•
Neist Point Walk Route Guide
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!
•
Behind Liathach Walk Route Guide
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!
•
Beinn Eighe Mountain Trail Route Guide
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!
•
Needle Rock, The Storr and The Old Man of Storr Circular Walk Route Guide
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.
•
Corrieshalloch Gorge Viewpoint Walk Route Guide
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.
•
Bidean nam Bian Walk Route Guide
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!
•
Camusdarach Beach Walk Route Guide
The Camusdarach Beach Walk may be the setting for the film, Local Hero, but it also creates the perfect beach scene: smooth pristine sand hemmed by lapping bright blue water. So pack your swimsuit and snacks, bring along your dog, and get ready for an adventure that focuses more on lounging than walking. But hey! The route is so pretty; you could repeat it as many times as you like.
•
Falls of Shin Walk Route Guide
Looking for a fun, family-friendly adventure? Take on the Falls of Shin Walk! The low elevation gain paired with a short distance and ever-changing scenery collide to create a wonderful outdoorsy experience. Don’t expect tumbling waterfalls from above, but mighty falls sprinkled with salmon during the early autumn and summer months!
•
Ben Wyvis Path Route Guide
Looking to bag Munro? The Ben Wyvis Path grants the chance to do just that! Gain elevation quickly as you ascend the easy-to-follow path towards the summit, otherwise known as Glas Leathad Mòr, which casts an incredible vista of the wild Highlands fading into the horizon.
•
Loch Lochy Walk from Kilfinnan Route Guide
The Loch Lochy Walk from Kilfinnan takes you high above Loch Lochy for phenomenal bird's eye views from atop two striking Munros: Sròn a' Choire Ghairbh and Meall na Teanga. The initial approach may be bland, but don't let that trick you into thinking this is a boring hike because the views and reward from both summits make this rugged, challenging adventure beyond worth it.
•
Steall Falls and the Nevis Gorge Walk Route Guide
The Steall Falls and the Nevis Gorge Walk make for the ultimate short, family-friendly adventure! So get ready to immerse in the Nevis Gorge’s dramatic, incredible scenery before reaching the roaring Steall Falls. One of our favourite images of this walk comes about halfway when the waterfalls appear at a distance. The views of the falls cutting through a jagged slope surrounded by folklore-like scenery make for a fantastic photo opportunity!
•
Fyrish Monument Walk Route Guide
The Fyrish Monument Walk fuses a fun combination of views to form an unforgettable adventure—despite its shorter length. This walk may not take you deep in the quintessential wild sweeping the Highlands, but it’s definitely a cool adventure that doesn’t compromise on scenery (or uniqueness!). While the main object along this walk is the Fyrish Monument, you’ll also get to revel in views of the Cromarty Firth below, with the North Sea and Ben Wyvis painting colour into the image.
•
Loch Coruisk Walk Route Guide
The Loch Coruisk Walk may boast the prettiest freshwater scenery in Scotland, making this a must-do adventure if you’re in the Highlands. However, if you’re a spontaneous adventurer, this walk may not be the best choice for you as it requires booking a boat in advance, which we think adds to the uniqueness of this adventure! While the may path may be boggy at points, the incredible mountain vista flanking the loch will hinder you from focusing on your potentially soaking wet feet. (Come prepared with proper footwear if you can!)
•
Devil’s Staircase Walk Route Guide
The Devil's Staircase Walk travels from Kings House to Kinlochleven along the famed long-distance route, the West Highland Way. Of course, this description only describes a small section of the West Highland Way, but it is definitely one of the highlights as it climbs to the highest section of the entire route. You can also easily turn this into an out-and-back route as you’ll summit the Devil’s Staircase early on in your adventure.
•
Falls of Glomach Walk Route Guide
This walking guide takes you to the Falls of Glomach via the easiest and shortest route, making it more accessible for walkers with some hillwalking experience, but no need to be super experienced to tackle this out-and-back excursion. With that being said, beginners may want to pocket this route to the incredible, roaring Falls of Glomach for a later day. This 10.9mi walk winds through quintessential mythical and folklore-like scenery that paints most of the Highlands, with the falls cascading into a gorge, elevating the already-epic views to the next level.
•
The Pap of Glencoe Walk Route Guide
Don't let the 4.3mi distance fool you into thinking this will be a walk in the park! The Pap of Glencoe Walk is no easy feat, as it sees you gaining 2349ft over a super short distance. However, the panoramic views of Loch Leven, backed by the soaring Mamroes range, make the extreme huffing and puffing worth it.
Be prepared to navigate rocks and boulders on the final climb of the Pap!
•
Ring of Steall Walk Route Guide
Completing the circular Ring of Steall Walk is no easy feat! Expect to tackle not one, but four Munros— An Gearanach, Stob Choire a Chàirn, Devils Ridge to Sgùrr a'Mhaim, and Am Bodach—while traversing incredibly rugged scenery! From phenomenal glen views where the Steall Falls elevate the level of wonder from 10 to 10+ to dumbfounding views atop four different peaks, the Ring of Steall Walk exhausts and entertains!
•
South Glen Shiel Ridge Walk Route Guide
The South Glen Shiel Ridge Walk is a favourite among Munro-baggers as this incredible, adventurous excursion will see you cresting along a grassy ridge that undulates across seven summits. While most of the route features memorable ridgewalking, you will face some short scramble sections. Most people attempt to complete this long route in one day, but you can always split it into two by descending from the Druim na Coire nan Eirecheanach ridge and then take the Druim Thollaidh ridge the next morning. Don't forget to organize transportation for nine or so kilometres back to your car!
•
Lost Valley (Coire Gabhail) Walk Route Guide
The Lost Valley (Coire Gabhail) Walk may look easy on paper, but trust us when we say that this adventure is not for the faint of heart. While the steep elevation gain packed into a short distance may be physically demanding, the surrounding scenery is incredible—and mysterious. Coire Gabhail is the hidden, secret valley where the Macdonalds from Glen Coe kept stolen cattle. An amphitheatre of green-laden hills and peaks flank the valley. It’s fun to explore the flat section of the valley, where you’ll encounter rocks bigger than homes. It’s pretty epic, to say the least!
•
Stob Dubh via Buachaille Etive Beag Walk Route Guide
The Stob Dubh via Buachaille Etive Beag Walk has you summiting two Munros along the Buachaille Etive Beag mountain range, creating a challenging but worthwhile exploration in the Highlands! The wild scenery throughout will hopefully distract you from your tired legs and lungs. Thankfully, the path is relatively straightforward, hopefully preventing you from getting lost (although we can’t guarantee this, of course).
•
Ben Nevis by Càrn Mòr Dearg Walk Route Guide
Want to climb two Munros in a day? And we aren’t just talking about regular Munros; we’re talking about Scotland’s famed summit: Ben Nevis. That’s right! Climb Ben Nevis by way of Càrn Mòr Dearg on this incredible, strenuous walk. The other Munro? Càrn Mòr Dearg, which looms at a haunting 4003ft of elevation, is the ninth tallest mountain in Scotland.
•
Blà Bheinn Walk Route Guide
The Blà Bheinn Walk traverses a not-so-technical path at first before getting a bit more rough and tough later on as you continue to gain significant elevation. But in the middle of your moans, stop to revel in the incredibly wild Highland views, and you’ll be alright. Plus, know phenomenal views await at the top of the Munro!
•
Glencoe Lochan Circular Walk Route Guide
The Glencoe Lochan Circular Walk makes for a fantastic family-friendly adventure! This short, relaxing adventure hugs the shores of the lochan backed by soaring mountains, making it easy to feel at ease as you explore the wild yet serene scenery. To top it off, the lochside path can accommodate wheelchairs
•
Duntulm Castle Walk Route Guide
The short Duntulm Castle Walk makes for a fun, family-friendly adventure, especially if you're craving fresh air fused with history. Check out 17th-century ruins on this oceanside walk!
•
The Fairy Glen Circular Walk Route Guide
Want to feel like you’re a character in a timeless storybook? The Fairy Glen Circular Walk in the Highlands immerses you among grassy cone-shaped hills and leads you towards Castle Ewan, a rocky tower that you can climb if you feel so inclined. Expect to revel in phenomenal, supernatural scenery throughout this entire journey—and not only will adults love it, but the imagery will also entertain kids.
•
Beinn Dòrain and Beinn an Dòthaidh Walk Route Guide
The Beinn Dòrain and Beinn an Dòthaidh Walk winds atop two incredible Munros, replete with otherworldly scenery every step of the way. This challenging route isn’t your typical straightforward out-and-back, lollipop, or circuit route as it blends all three walk types into one, so be sure to bring a GPS for secure navigation.
•
Five Sisters of Kintail Walk Route Guide
Explore an incredible ridgeline on the ever-so strenuous Five Sisters of Kintail Walk in the Scottish Highlands. This challenging endeavour will have you tackling not one but three Munros! Feel like you’re on top of a wild, wild supernatural world as you meander across the ridgeline. Do note that while we say this is dog-friendly, it’s important to keep your pups on a leash or maybe leave them at home due to steep drops along the ridge.
•
Knockan Crag Trail Route Guide
The Knockan Crag Trail is a fun walking adventure for the entire family, as it not only unveils fantastic views from atop Knockan Crag, but it includes unique sculptures en route, and kids have the chance to partake in a treasure hunt. This short route—ranked as easy—provides consistent entertainment!
•
Ness Walk Route Guide
Ness Walk offers the chance for a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This short loop makes for a great adventure if you’re looking for something scenic and straightforward. While this makes for a fantastic walking loop, several also use it for trail running. Nothing beats running or walking alongside the hum of the River Ness!
•
Ben Bhraggie Circular Walk Route Guide
The Ben Bhraggie Circular Walk packs a punch when it comes to scenery and monuments! Revel in views overlooking bright blue waters brushing along the coastline and the charming town of Golspie, visit the 100ft Sutherland monument, walk across a bridge backed by fairytale-like imagery and look down at Big Burn falls.
•
Oldshoremore Bay Circuit Route Guide
The Oldshoremore Bay Circuit takes you to three stunning sandy bays with headland traverses in between each and a small scramble after Oldshoremore beach. This walk seamlessly fuses adventure with stunning, remote coastline imagery!
•
Binnein Mòr and Na Gruagaichean Walk Route Guide
Looking for the ultimate walking adventure in the Highlands? Experienced hillwalkers will definitely want to look into the incredibly challenging Binnein Mòr and Na Gruagaichean Walk, where dumbfounding views flank narrow ridges and feel all the more rewarding after climbing two Munros.
•
Eas a’ Chual Aluinn Walk Route Guide
The Eas a' Chual Aluinn Walk takes you on an out-and-back adventure to the tallest waterfall in Britain! Venture deep into Assynt, where rugged terrain and unreal scenery will keep you well-entertained (and alert). The views unravelling along this route only work to elevate the Eas a' Chual Aluinn Walk from incredible to epic.
•
Sgurr na Stri Walk Route Guide
The Sgurr na Stri Walk climbs to incredible views overlooking the sea, Loch Coruisk, and the Cuillin. It’s safe to say that this walk does not disappoint, but, let’s be honest, disappointing adventures are hard to come by when exploring the Isle of Skye.
•
Brother’s Point Walk Route Guide
The Brother’s Point Walk takes you along the coast, unveiling magical views of the otherworldly sea scenery stretching into the horizon. Watch out for some narrow sections along the cliffs, making it essential you tackle this route when the weather is clear, and the path is visible.
•
Craig Phadrig Circular Walk Route Guide
The Craig Phadrig Circular Walk may sit close to Inverness, but it has a magical way of immersing you in nature and creating a lovely outdoorsy escapade! Follow the easy-to-follow paths as you meander through the forest, catching views of an archaeological site and Beauty of Firth en route.
1-45 of 56 routes
WE ARE HERE TO HELP
Let someone else do the hard work, book a custom tour in over 85 countries.
Chat with us on our contact page or fill out the form below!