30 Best Hikes in Scotland: Mountains, Ridges & Coastal Walks

Scotland: Towering Ridges, Remote Wilds, and Iconic Highland Trails

There’s nowhere quite like Scotland when it comes to hiking. This is a land carved by glaciers and steeped in legend—where jagged peaks, misty lochs, and windswept coastlines set the stage for some of the most spectacular treks in the world. From the Cuillin Ridge on Skye to the wilds of Assynt and the classic routes through Glencoe, Scotland is a dream for hikers seeking challenge, beauty, and solitude.

This guide pulls together the best hikes in Scotland—whether you’re after exposed ridge walks with serious elevation, coastal circuits with cinematic backdrops, or multi-day epics through the Highland interior.

Why Hike in Scotland?

Scotland is a land of contrasts. You can scramble along a knife-edge ridge in the morning, descend to a quiet glen by afternoon, and sleep in a bothy under star-filled skies. The diversity here is unreal—and thanks to Scotland’s freedom to roam laws, you can explore it all with fewer restrictions than almost anywhere else in the world.

What makes it special:

Unmatched scenery: Towering Munros, mirror-like lochs, moody glens, and remote coastlines all in a single country.
True wilderness: Many of Scotland’s best hikes are remote and untouched, especially in the Northwest Highlands and Fisherfield Forest.
Rich hiking culture: From bothy stays and bagging Munros to long-distance trails like the West Highland Way, hiking is a way of life here.
Wild weather, big rewards: When the clouds lift and the views stretch for miles, there’s truly nothing like it.

When to Hike in Scotland

Late May through early October is the sweet spot for most hikers. During these months, you’ll get the best combination of long daylight hours, clearer trails, and stable (by Scottish standards) weather. May and June tend to be drier and midge-free, while September offers golden light and fewer crowds. July and August can be warm and lush, though midges can be persistent—especially in the west.

Expect all four seasons in a day. Always pack waterproofs, layers, and good footwear—even in summer.

A Note on Difficulty and Terrain

Scotland’s hikes are often steep, rocky, and exposed, especially in places like Torridon, Skye, and Glencoe. While some routes are beginner-friendly, many require good fitness and experience with rough terrain or scrambling. But for those prepared, the rewards are huge: world-class ridgelines, remote summits, and views that go on forever.

Whether you’re bagging iconic Munros like Ben Nevis or diving into a multi-day trek through Glen Affric or Knoydart, Scotland is one of the world’s most unforgettable places to explore on foot.

Let’s break it down by category:

⛰️ Alpine Ridges & Scrambles (Big mountain energy, exposure, high reward)

🌄 Iconic Scenic Peaks & Summit Trails (Classic single-peak or loop day hikes)

🌊 Coastal & Landslip Formations (Spectacular geology, shorter distances)

🏞️ Classic Glens & Highland Circuits

🎒 Multi-Day Treks

Ready to hike the Highlands? Let’s go.

⛰️ Alpine Ridges & Scrambles (Big mountain energy, exposure, high reward)

These are your epic ridge walks, often requiring good fitness and some scrambling.

Ben Nevis via Carn Mòr Dearg Arête – Lochaber

For a more dramatic and rewarding ascent of the UK’s highest peak, the Carn Mòr Dearg Arête route delivers unmatched ridge walking and fewer crowds. This thrilling horseshoe traverse links two iconic mountains via a narrow, rocky arête, offering incredible views of the North Face cliffs of Ben Nevis. A true classic that’s tougher and more scenic than the tourist route.

Location: Ben Nevis Range, Lochaber
Distance: ~17 km (10.5 miles)
Duration: 7–9 hours
Difficulty: Challenging
Best Time to Hike: May to October
Highlights:
- Narrow alpine ridge with light scrambling
- Dramatic views of Ben Nevis’ North Face
- Remote-feeling approach and descent
Pro Tip: Tackle this route clockwise for the most rewarding views and easier scrambling up the arête rather than down.

Aonach Eagach – Glencoe

Often dubbed Scotland’s narrowest ridge, Aonach Eagach is an exposed, knife-edge traverse that towers over the Glencoe valley. With continuous Grade 2 scrambling, this legendary ridge hike is both technically demanding and wildly scenic, offering uninterrupted views of Loch Leven, the Mamores, and Glen Etive.

Location: Glencoe, Highlands
Distance: ~10 km (6.2 miles)
Duration: 6–8 hours
Difficulty: Very Challenging
Best Time to Hike: May to September (in dry weather)
Highlights:
- Full-body scrambling on a narrow ridgeline
- Panoramas in every direction
- One of Scotland’s most exhilarating scrambles
Pro Tip: Only attempt in good weather with a solid head for heights. Commitment is key—once you’re on the ridge, there are no easy escape routes.

Liathach – Glen Torridon

Liathach is a brutal and breathtaking mountain that dominates the skyline above Glen Torridon. Known for its sheer flanks and narrow pinnacles, it offers a challenging yet spectacular full ridge traverse, including optional scrambling over the Am Fasarinen pinnacles. It’s widely considered one of Scotland’s finest mountain experiences.

Location: Glen Torridon, Northwest Highlands
Distance: ~11 km (7 miles)
Duration: 6–8 hours
Difficulty: Challenging
Best Time to Hike: May to September
Highlights:
- Airy scrambling across rugged pinnacles
- Views over Beinn Eighe, Loch Torridon, and the west coast
- Stark Torridonian sandstone cliffs
Pro Tip: If you want to avoid the more technical scrambling, descend before the pinnacles after Spidean a’ Choire Lèith.

An Teallach Ridge – Wester Ross

Regarded by many as Scotland’s most dramatic mountain, An Teallach is a sandstone masterpiece of jagged towers, plunging cliffs, and two Munros. The full ridge traverse requires hands-on scrambling and careful navigation, but the aesthetic and atmospheric rewards are unmatched.

Location: Dundonnell, Wester Ross
Distance: ~15 km (9 miles)
Duration: 6–9 hours
Difficulty: Very Challenging
Best Time to Hike: June to September
Highlights:
- Iconic scrambling across Corrag Bhuidhe pinnacles
- Vast views over the Fisherfields and Little Loch Broom
- Summit of Bidein a’ Ghlas Thuill
Pro Tip: Start early and bring a map and compass—mist can roll in quickly and obscure the complex ridgeline.

A’ Mhaighdean – Northwest Highlands

Often called the most remote Munro in Scotland, A’ Mhaighdean offers a wild and rewarding journey deep into the Fisherfield Forest. Its summit rewards with one of the most stunning panoramic views in the Highlands—across lochs, peaks, and the wild west coast.

Location: Fisherfield Forest, Northwest Highlands
Distance: ~28 km (17.5 miles)
Duration: 10–12 hours (or overnight)
Difficulty: Challenging (due to remoteness)
Best Time to Hike: May to October
Highlights:
- Remote wilderness with minimal foot traffic
- Dramatic view over Fionn Loch
- Sense of complete solitude and scale
Pro Tip: Consider staying at Shenavall Bothy the night before—turns a grueling day hike into a perfect 2-day trip.

Grey Corries Ridge – Near Fort William

A long, serrated ridgeline of quartzite peaks, the Grey Corries form one of the most extensive high-level ridge walks in Scotland. The traverse includes several Munros and provides panoramic views of Ben Nevis, the Mamores, and remote glens below. It’s a hidden gem for experienced hillwalkers who want a big day out without the crowds.

Location: East of Ben Nevis, near Spean Bridge
Distance: ~22 km (13.5 miles)
Duration: 8–10 hours
Difficulty: Challenging
Best Time to Hike: May to October
Highlights:
- Long ridge with continuous elevation
- Multiple Munros in a single day
- Far-reaching views over the West Highlands
Pro Tip: Start from the Lairig Leacach Bothy trailhead and consider exiting via the Leanachan Forest to create a loop.

Beinn Eighe Traverse – Torridon

The Beinn Eighe massif is one of Scotland’s oldest and most geologically significant mountain ranges. The full ridge traverse includes two Munros and involves rocky ascents, scree descents, and complex terrain. It offers constant drama with cliffs, lochans, and sweeping vistas across Torridon.

Location: Glen Torridon, Northwest Highlands
Distance: ~18 km (11 miles)
Duration: 7–9 hours
Difficulty: Challenging
Best Time to Hike: May to September
Highlights:
- Unique quartzite rock and ancient geology
- Spectacular views of Liathach and Loch Maree
- Dramatic corries and plunging cliffs
Pro Tip: Navigation is tricky in mist—bring a compass and a solid map, especially around the ridge-top plateau.

The Cuillin Ridge Traverse (partial/day segments) – Isle of Skye

Often called Britain’s greatest mountaineering route, the full Cuillin Ridge is a legendary multi-day expedition. But day-length segments—like Sgùrr Dearg and the Inaccessible Pinnacle, or Sgùrr nan Gillean—offer the same epic exposure, technical scrambling, and razor-sharp ridges. Every peak here is a serious endeavor with jaw-dropping coastal views.

Location: Isle of Skye
Distance: Varies by route (7–14 km / 4–9 miles typical for day segments)
Duration: 6–10 hours
Difficulty: Very Challenging to Mountaineering
Best Time to Hike: May to September (dry conditions essential)
Highlights:
- Scotland’s only true alpine ridge
- Full-body scrambling and optional rope work
- Views over the Isle of Skye and the sea
Pro Tip: Even for day routes, consider hiring a mountain guide—the Cuillin is no place for poor visibility or route-finding errors.

🌄 Iconic Scenic Peaks & Summit Trails (Classic single-peak or loop day hikes)

Spectacular views, without complex scrambling (though still strenuous at times).

Blaven (Bla Bheinn) – Isle of Skye

Blaven rises like a dark fortress from the southern end of the Cuillin, separated from the main ridge by Glen Sligachan. Though technically not part of the main Black Cuillin, it’s every bit as dramatic. A steep, rocky ascent leads to a commanding summit with 360° views over the sea, the Cuillin Ridge, and the islands beyond.

Location: Isle of Skye
Distance: ~8 km (5 miles)
Duration: 5–7 hours
Difficulty: Challenging
Best Time to Hike: April to October
Highlights:
- One of the most dramatic standalone Munros
- Sweeping views of the Cuillin Ridge
- Optional scrambles on upper sections
Pro Tip: After rain, the route can be very slippery—bring poles for stability and watch your footing on steep scree.

Ben Alligin – Torridon

One of the Torridon Trio, Ben Alligin combines rugged terrain, dramatic ridges, and classic Scottish scenery. The full circuit includes the Horns of Alligin, a fun scrambling section that adds some spice without serious exposure. It’s a superb introduction to Torridon’s unique landscape.

Location: Glen Torridon, Northwest Highlands
Distance: ~10 km (6 miles)
Duration: 5–7 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Best Time to Hike: May to September
Highlights:
- Great circuit with two Munros
- The Horns of Alligin – optional scramble
- Views over Loch Torridon and Beinn Dearg
Pro Tip: If you’re confident on steep ground, include the Horns; otherwise, bypass them easily on the return.

Ben More – Isle of Mull

The highest peak on Mull and the only Munro on the Inner Hebrides outside Skye, Ben More offers a rugged and wild outing. Its isolated setting gives incredible views over the islands and sea lochs, and it’s often climbed as part of a ferry-day adventure from Oban.

Location: Isle of Mull
Distance: ~10 km (6.2 miles)
Duration: 4–6 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Time to Hike: April to October
Highlights:
- Only Munro on Mull
- Coastal and island panoramas
- Often enjoyed in solitude
Pro Tip: Bring gaiters—the lower slopes are boggy, especially after rainfall.

Buachaille Etive Mòr – Glen Etive

Known as “The Great Herdsman of Etive,” this pyramid-shaped peak is one of Scotland’s most photographed mountains. The hike up via Coire na Tulaich is steep and direct, but the ridgeline traverse offers incredible views over Glencoe and Rannoch Moor. It’s a Highland classic in every sense.

Location: Glen Etive / Glencoe
Distance: ~10 km (6 miles)
Duration: 5–7 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Best Time to Hike: April to October
Highlights:
- Iconic Scottish mountain profile
- Ridge walk across two Munros
- Sweeping views from the summit
Pro Tip: Be cautious descending Coire na Tulaich—it’s steep and loose, especially in wet conditions.

Buachaille Etive Beag – Glencoe

Often overshadowed by its bigger sibling next door, Buachaille Etive Beag offers a quieter, more accessible ridge with two Munros and stunning views of Glencoe’s dramatic landscape. The trail is steep but less exposed than many others in the region.

Location: Glencoe
Distance: ~8 km (5 miles)
Duration: 4–5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Time to Hike: May to September
Highlights:
- Less technical than Etive Mòr
- Views of Glen Etive, the Aonach Eagach, and the Mamores
- Two Munros in one outing
Pro Tip: Go clockwise to save the best views for the second summit.

Ben Lomond – Loch Lomond & The Trossachs

Scotland’s southernmost Munro and one of its most popular, Ben Lomond provides a straightforward hike with tremendous reward. Its proximity to Glasgow and beautiful outlook over Loch Lomond and the Arrochar Alps make it a favorite for first-time Munro baggers.

Location: Rowardennan, Loch Lomond
Distance: ~12 km (7.5 miles)
Duration: 4–6 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Time to Hike: March to October
Highlights:
- Iconic views over Loch Lomond
- Optional circular return via Ptarmigan Ridge
- Great for newer hikers
Pro Tip: Hike early or off-season to avoid the peak-season crowds.

Suilven – Assynt

One of the most distinctive mountains in Scotland, Suilven rises like a jagged fin from the surrounding moorland. Reaching its summit involves a long, flat approach followed by a steep and dramatic ascent. Once on top, the 360° views over lochs and coastal cliffs are otherworldly.

Location: Assynt, Northwest Highlands
Distance: ~20 km (12.5 miles)
Duration: 6–8 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Best Time to Hike: April to September
Highlights:
- One of Scotland’s most photogenic peaks
- Massive contrast between flat approach and steep rise
- Remote and peaceful setting
Pro Tip: Consider biking the track to Glencanisp Lodge to save time on the return leg.

Lochnagar & Loch Muick – Cairngorms

This royal-favorite Munro sits above the beautiful Loch Muick and offers a combination of high plateau, craggy cliffs, and glacial corries. It’s a classic Cairngorms route, often done as a loop with other tops or a more direct out-and-back.

Location: Cairngorms National Park
Distance: ~19 km (12 miles)
Duration: 6–8 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Time to Hike: May to October
Highlights:
- Vast views across the Cairngorm Plateau
- Wildlife spotting: ptarmigan, red deer, eagles
- Historic royal hunting grounds
Pro Tip: Start early—parking fills fast at Spittal of Glen Muick on summer weekends.

Ben A’an – Trossachs

Often called a “mountain in miniature,” Ben A’an is a short but stunning hike with a classic Highland summit view. The climb is steady and steep, but rewards with a rocky summit and wide panoramas across Loch Katrine and the Arrochar Alps.

Location: The Trossachs
Distance: ~4.5 km (2.8 miles)
Duration: 1.5–2.5 hours
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Best Time to Hike: Year-round (weather permitting)
Highlights:
- Beginner-friendly hike with maximum reward
- Great for sunrise or sunset
- Epic views for minimal effort
Pro Tip: Perfect for a first Highland peak or a late-afternoon jaunt.

The Cobbler / Ben Arthur – Arrochar Alps

The Cobbler’s jagged summit and three rocky peaks make it one of the most recognizable mountains in southern Scotland. A steady trail winds through forest and up into the high corrie before reaching the famous summit block—where the brave can “thread the needle” to reach the true top.

Location: Arrochar, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs
Distance: ~11 km (7 miles)
Duration: 4–6 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Best Time to Hike: March to October
Highlights:
- Iconic summit scrambling opportunity
- Great introduction to rocky Highland peaks
- Easy access from Glasgow
Pro Tip: Be prepared for exposure at the top—many skip the final summit rock scramble, and that’s okay!

🌊 Coastal & Landslip Formations (Spectacular geology, shorter distances)

Visual drama and accessibility. Lower elevation, but huge payoff.

Quiraing & Trotternish Ridge – Isle of Skye

Carved by ancient landslips, the Quiraing is a surreal, Jurassic-like landscape of twisting pinnacles, cliffs, and grassy plateaus. The loop trail explores towering rock formations like the Needle, the Table, and the Prison, with expansive views over the Isle of Skye’s east coast and toward the Outer Hebrides.

Location: Trotternish Peninsula, Isle of Skye
Distance: ~7 km (4.3 miles)
Duration: 2.5–4 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Time to Hike: April to October
Highlights:
- Iconic rock spires and landslip formations
- Wide views across Staffin Bay and beyond
- Often shrouded in mist, adding a mystical feel
Pro Tip: Hike counterclockwise to tackle the muddy ascent early and enjoy easier terrain on the way back.

Old Man of Storr – Isle of Skye

Perhaps Scotland’s most photographed hike, the Old Man of Storr is a towering needle of rock rising from a grassy ridge above Loch Leathan. It’s a short but steep trail, and the views over the surrounding sea lochs, hills, and islands make it wildly popular—and undeniably stunning.

Location: Trotternish Peninsula, Isle of Skye
Distance: ~4.5 km (2.8 miles)
Duration: 1.5–2.5 hours
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Best Time to Hike: Year-round (weather permitting)
Highlights:
- One of the most iconic Scottish landscapes
- Panoramic views over the Isle of Skye and Raasay
- Great photo opportunities at sunrise
Pro Tip: Arrive early (before 9 AM) or late afternoon to avoid heavy foot traffic and bus tours.

Stac Pollaidh – Northwest Highlands

Though modest in height, Stac Pollaidh (Stac Polly) offers one of the finest short hikes in Scotland. The steep, rocky ascent leads to a high ridge of eroded sandstone pinnacles and sweeping views over the Assynt wilderness, including Suilven, Cul Mor, and Loch Lurgainn.

Location: Assynt, Northwest Highlands
Distance: ~4.5 km (2.8 miles)
Duration: 2–3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Time to Hike: April to October
Highlights:
- Short trail, massive reward
- Dramatic Torridonian sandstone pinnacles
- One of Scotland’s most photogenic peaks
Pro Tip: The final summit section involves scrambling—stop at the ridge if you’re not comfortable with exposure.

Sgùrr na Strì – Isle of Skye

Despite being only 494 meters high, Sgùrr na Strì is often said to offer the best view in Scotland. Reached via a long walk from Sligachan or Loch Coruisk, its summit overlooks the heart of the Black Cuillin, with Loch Scavaig and the sea far below.

Location: Isle of Skye (near Sligachan or Loch Coruisk)
Distance: ~18 km (11 miles) return from Sligachan
Duration: 6–8 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Time to Hike: May to October
Highlights:
- Arguably the finest view in the Highlands
- Overlooks the Cuillin Ridge, Loch Coruisk, and the sea
- Remote and often quiet
Pro Tip: Take a boat from Elgol to Loch Coruisk and hike up from there to turn it into a more manageable and stunning one-way trip.

🏞️ Classic Glens & Highland Circuits

These are immersive routes through lush glens, high corries, and dramatic backdrops. Some are accessible for strong beginners, while others offer long-haul adventure without technical scrambling.

Five Sisters of Kintail – Kintail

A legendary ridge walk with five prominent summits, this hike delivers classic Highland drama with every step. The traverse follows a sweeping ridgeline high above Glen Shiel, with continuous views over Loch Duich, the sea, and the wild hills of Wester Ross. A full circuit of the Five Sisters is a long day, but well worth it.

Location: Glen Shiel, Northwest Highlands
Distance: ~17 km (10.5 miles) point-to-point
Duration: 7–9 hours
Difficulty: Challenging
Best Time to Hike: May to October
Highlights:
- Five Munro summits with sweeping panoramas
- Sea-to-summit views over western Scotland
- Continuous ridge with minimal technical terrain
Pro Tip: Arrange a car shuttle or taxi in advance—this is a point-to-point walk unless you want a long return on the A87 road.

Ring of Steall – Mamores, near Fort William

This is one of Scotland’s finest circular ridge hikes, combining four Munros, airy ridges, waterfalls, and alpine cirques. The name comes from Steall Falls, which you pass early on via a wire bridge. It’s a long day with steep climbs and narrow ridges—but also a Highland classic.

Location: Glen Nevis, near Fort William
Distance: ~17.5 km (11 miles)
Duration: 7–9 hours
Difficulty: Challenging
Best Time to Hike: May to September
Highlights:
- Four Munros in a single loop
- Iconic Steall Falls and wire-bridge crossing
- Ridgeline views toward Ben Nevis and the Grey Corries
Pro Tip: The final descent is steep—hiking poles help save your knees after a big day out.

Pap of Glencoe (Sgòrr na Cìche) – Glencoe

A short, steep hike with a massive visual payoff, the Pap of Glencoe is one of the best quick-access peaks in the Highlands. The summit gives spectacular views over Loch Leven, Glencoe village, and surrounding peaks like the Aonach Eagach and Bidean nam Bian.

Location: Glencoe, Highlands
Distance: ~6.5 km (4 miles)
Duration: 2.5–4 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Time to Hike: Year-round (with care)
Highlights:
- Classic “pap-shaped” peak above Glencoe
- Incredible views from a compact climb
- Ideal for half-day adventures
Pro Tip: Conditions can be windy and exposed at the summit—bring layers even if it’s mild at the base.

Coire Gabhail (Lost Valley) – Glencoe

Tucked between towering peaks, the Lost Valley offers a surreal and atmospheric glen walk. Legend says this hidden valley was once used by Clan MacDonald to hide cattle. It’s short and dramatic, with rocky terrain, river crossings, and vertical cliffs on all sides.

Location: Glencoe
Distance: ~4 km (2.5 miles)
Duration: 2–3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate (requires good footing)
Best Time to Hike: April to October
Highlights:
- Short hike with maximum drama
- Sheer cliffs and alpine scenery
- Historical intrigue and folklore
Pro Tip: Some rocky scrambling is required—good boots and sure-footedness are a must, especially after rain.

Fisherfields Round – Fisherfield Forest

This is the wildest hike on the list—an epic route through the so-called “Great Wilderness” of the Fisherfield Forest. Most complete it as a 2-day expedition (wild camping or bothy), bagging five or six Munros in one of the most remote and untamed parts of Scotland.

Location: Northwest Highlands (south of Ullapool)
Distance: ~35 km (22 miles)
Duration: 12–18 hours (overnight recommended)
Difficulty: Very Challenging
Best Time to Hike: May to September
Highlights:
- Deep wilderness and total remoteness
- Summit A’ Mhaighdean – Scotland’s most remote Munro
- Wild rivers, loch views, and ridge walking
Pro Tip: Best done with a night at Shenavall Bothy—gives you time to enjoy the setting rather than just endure the distance.

🎒 Multi-Day Treks

These long-distance hikes traverse some of Scotland’s most majestic and remote terrain, often over several days. From well-maintained classics to wild, unmarked routes, they offer true immersion in the Highlands.

Cape Wrath Trail – Fort William to Cape Wrath

Often called Britain’s toughest long-distance hike, the Cape Wrath Trail is an unwaymarked, unofficial route that weaves through the wildest parts of the Highlands. It demands excellent navigation, self-sufficiency, and grit—but rewards with utter solitude and raw beauty, ending at Scotland’s remote northwestern tip.

Location: Fort William to Cape Wrath (NW coast)
Distance: ~370 km (230 miles)
Duration: 2–3 weeks
Difficulty: Very Challenging
Best Time to Hike: May to September
Highlights:
- Remote glens, lochans, mountains, and moor
- Crosses Knoydart, Torridon, and Assynt
- Culminates at the remote Cape Wrath lighthouse
Pro Tip: This is a non-marked route—carry a GPS, maps, and be prepared for river crossings, bogs, and rapidly changing weather.

West Highland Way – Milngavie to Fort William

Scotland’s most popular long-distance trail, the West Highland Way is a well-established 96-mile journey through changing landscapes—from Loch Lomond’s shoreline to the shadow of Ben Nevis. It’s well-marked and supported, making it a great intro to multi-day hiking in Scotland.

Location: Milngavie (Glasgow) to Fort William
Distance: ~154 km (96 miles)
Duration: 6–8 days
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Time to Hike: April to October
Highlights:
- Follows old drover roads and military tracks
- Loch Lomond, Rannoch Moor, Glencoe views
- Accommodation options from wild camping to inns
Pro Tip: Book campsites or B&Bs early—this route is very popular during summer months.

Affric–Kintail Way – Drumnadrochit to Morvich

One of Scotland’s quietest and most scenic long-distance walks, the Affric–Kintail Way crosses the Highlands through Glen Affric, often called the most beautiful glen in Scotland. Less rugged than the Cape Wrath Trail but more remote than the West Highland Way, it’s a perfect middle ground for adventurous trekkers.

Location: Drumnadrochit (Loch Ness) to Morvich (Kintail)
Distance: ~72 km (45 miles)
Duration: 4–5 days
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Time to Hike: May to September
Highlights:
- Lush Caledonian forest and lochs in Glen Affric
- Quieter trail with wild camping opportunities
- Finishes near the Five Sisters of Kintail
Pro Tip: Bring a midge net and repellent—Glen Affric can be infamous for them in summer.

Plan Your Ultimate Hiking Adventure in Scotland

Whether you’re navigating the knife-edge ridges of the Cuillin, trekking deep into the wilderness of Fisherfield, or soaking in the cinematic beauty of the Quiraing, hiking in Scotland is an experience like no other. With a perfect mix of rugged terrain, wild scenery, and deep-rooted history, these trails offer something for every level of hiker—from bucket-list scramblers to peaceful glen wanderers.

Scotland’s trails deliver raw, untamed beauty that lingers in memory long after the hike ends. Whether you’re tackling a multi-day epic like the Cape Wrath Trail or chasing panoramic views on a quick summit like Ben A’an, the adventures here are wild, challenging, and deeply rewarding.

Tips for Hiking in Scotland

Be ready for all weather – Sunshine can turn to sleet in minutes, even in summer. Layers and waterproofs are a must.
Bring a map and compass – Many Scottish trails are remote, with few waymarks or phone signal. GPS is helpful, but don’t rely on it alone.
Respect the land – Stick to established trails when possible, follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, and leave no trace.
Embrace the wild – Scotland is home to bothies, wild camping spots, and remote terrain that rewards those who go the extra mile.

Whether you’re here for a weekend summit or planning a full-on Highlands expedition, Scotland has a trail that will take your breath away. Want more inspiration? Check out our full library of top hikes around the world, or dive deeper into our Scotland trail guides for detailed routes, maps, and planning tips.

Have a favorite Scottish trail we should feature? Drop us a comment below—or tag us in your adventure photos @TrailheadTraveler on Instagram. We’d love to follow along on your journey.

Time to lace up your boots and head into the wild. Scotland is waiting.

Featured Image by Giuseppe Milo

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