Hiking in Scotland

Find your hiking trail in Scotland

Hiking in Scotland is a unique way to glimpse into the nation’s landscapes and cultural heritage. Trails such as the famous West Highland Way, one of Europe’s most beloved trails, and the Cape Wrath Trail have really different terrains, from remote highlands to valleys, and stop through enjoyable outdoor towns such as Fort William for a pint and some pub food. Munro bagging, which involves climbing peaks over 3,000 feet, is a challenge for people who want to conquer these peaks located in the Scottish Highlands. The many lakes you’ll hike along, called Lochs, are a legacy of former glaciers that carved much of the landscape you’ll hike across when you hike in Scotland!

Scotland’s Great Trails

Scotland has many, many options for hiking trails. The most famous trails are called Scotland’s Great Trails, which are a selection of the best hiking paths. They come in all distances for all levels of hiking experience from quiet Loch hiking trails to crossing the challenging highlands. For example, the Isle of Skye has the iconic Old Man of Storr, while the John Muir Way goes from Helensburgh to Dunbar, showing off the area’s historical sites. For ambitious hikers, Ben Nevis, Scotland’s highest mountain, is a challenging climb with rewarding views. Alternatively, the Great Glen Way is a less intense hike, where you cross from Fort William to Inverness and pass the iconic Loch Ness.

Munro Bagging in Scotland

Munro bagging, which is climbing peaks over 3,000 feet, is popular among many people, mostly locals, and is a great chance to explore over 280 Munros. Wild camping is permitted under Scotland’s outdoor access code, but, of course, does require you to respect the principles of Leave No Trace.

Midges and weather conditions

Hiking in Scotland means you must prepare for unpredictable weather and midges, especially from May to September. Your waterproof outdoor gear needs to be top-notch for the weather conditions that are known for changing very fast, even in the summer season. Please keep in mind that in the winter season, the hiking trails for the most part aren’t accessible when there are very tough conditions.