With its rugged mountains, serene lochs, and picturesque countryside, Scotland attracts hikers from all over the globe. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, there are plenty of options to choose from to suit your fitness level and preferences. Whether you prefer a hike with a city view over the Royal Mile or if you prefer to see some of the beautiful castles in Scotland, this list has you covered!
From the famous peaks of the Scottish Highlands to the hidden gems of the Lowlands, get ready to embark on a hiking journey like no other. Lace-up your boots, pack your backpack, and let’s discover the wonders of Scotland’s hiking trails.
This post contains affiliate links. This means if you purchase something from a link, I may make a small commission, at no cost to you. This helps me keep the site running and free.
If you like this post, be sure to sign up for my e-mail list for travel inspiration (and get your FREE budget printable), or connect with me on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Pinterest.
Arthur’s Seat
Route Length: 4 km (2.5 miles)
Duration: 90 minutes
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Panoramic views of the city of Edinburgh, including the Royal Mile
Hiking Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh, Scotland, is a delightful outdoor adventure that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and panoramic views. This ancient volcano, which is actually the main peak in a group of hills, is located just a stone’s throw away from the bustling city center, making it a convenient escape for anyone.
The hike to Arthur’s Seat is accessible to hikers of all skill levels, with various routes to choose from. The most popular and straightforward path begins at Holyrood Park and takes you through lush grasslands and rocky outcrops. As you ascend, you’ll be treated to ever-expanding vistas of Edinburgh’s iconic skyline, including landmarks like the Edinburgh Castle and the Scottish Parliament building. It’s honestly the best way to see the entire Royal Mile!
Once you reach the summit, which stands at 251 meters (823 feet), you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking, 360-degree views of the city, the Firth of Forth, and the surrounding countryside. It’s a perfect spot for a picnic or simply to take in the beauty of the Scottish landscape.
Arthur’s Seat is not only a natural wonder but also steeped in history and folklore. It’s said to be the possible location of the legendary Camelot and has been a site of human habitation for thousands of years. The remnants of an Iron Age hill fort can still be seen on the slopes.
Beinn Mhor
Route Length: 11 km (6.8 miles)
Duration: 4-5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Panoramic views out to Barra and over South Uist
The ridge hike over Beinn Mhor offers fantastic views over South Uist and on a clear day all the way to Barra. The ridge itself is also spectacular. Despite the island being relatively flat this ridge is steep and is best suited to people who are not afraid of heights.
There are a couple of different routes to the top. The easiest logistically is to start by the road close to Sniseabhal or at Taobh a Thuath Loch Aineort and return to the same place. Alternatively you can take a taxi between these two places and do the walk traversing the ridge.
Parking is along the main road close to Sniseabhal or at the parking area at the end of the road in Taobh a Thuath close to Arinaban Woodland.
April to October is the best time to do the hike. Regardless of the time of year the ground is boggy at the start of the hike but as you start climbing it dries out.
The path is not always easy to follow so it is important to be comfortable finding your way based on landmarks. Given how steep the ridge is it is best to do the hike on a clear day since you don’t want to be caught at the top in thick clouds.
There are several hotels and guesthouses in Lochboisdale and the surrounding area which is a short drive from the start of the hike.
Ben Nevis
Route Length: 6.5 km (4 miles) one way
Duration: 8 hours to the top & back down
Difficulty: Hard. High elevation gain with wind and freezing conditions at the top.
Highlights: Panoramic views of the Scottish mountains.
Located near Fort William in the stunning Scottish Highlands, Ben Nevis offers a challenging yet immensely rewarding experience. Ben Nevis is the UK’s highest mountain. “The Ben” as it is affectionately nicknamed is one of the most popular hikes in Scotland. This is an endurance hike, with sustained elevation throughout the entire hike.
The ascent of Ben Nevis is a journey through rugged terrain, where hikers encounter varying weather conditions. It’s crucial to be well-prepared with proper gear, including waterproof clothing and sturdy hiking boots, as the weather on the mountain can change rapidly. June through September is generally considered the best time for climbing when the days are longer, and the snow has receded, revealing lush green landscapes and cascading waterfalls. No matter when you decide to hike, be sure to prepare for any type of weather at the top. This is a top tip for visiting Scotland anyway!
The trail to the summit, known as the Mountain Track or Tourist Path, is the most popular route. It offers breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains, Loch Linnhe, and the town of Fort William.
Since this is a full-day hike, hikers should leave early in the morning so they do not descend after sunset. This will give you ample time to reach the summit, have lunch, and enjoy the views.
Reaching the summit rewards climbers with panoramic views that stretch as far as the eye can see, encompassing the Highlands and even glimpses of the Scottish Isles on clear days. The summit also houses a stone observatory cairn, a testament to the mountain’s history.
Devil’s Pulpit
Route Length: .65km (.4 miles)
Duration: 45 minutes
Difficulty: Hard. All of the elevation along the trail is along the Devil’s Steps, a stone staircase that was built in the 1860s and has now turned into a veritable rock slide in certain sections.
Located just half an hour north of Glasgow, the Devil’s Pulpit is one of the most unusual hikes in Scotland.
On this hike, you’ll walk through a wooded forest, with peekaboo views of Scottish farmlands on your right hand side. After just 0.1 mile, you’ll reach the aforementioned Devil’s Steps- be extremely careful if you’re climbing these stairs if they’re wet or icy!
After conquering the rocky stairway, you’ll reach the bottom of Finnich Glen, a canyon with red sandstone walls, covered in moss, and a stream that looks straight out of a horror movie. While the stream water might look like blood, it’s just an optical illusion, thanks to the crimson color of the sandstone!
If you want to see the trail’s namesake feature, take off those shoes and roll up your pants- you’ll need to wade through the stream! After about 150 feet, the canyon walls will curve and you’ll reach an embankment, with a unique sandstone formation that looks like a pulpit and beyond, a two-tiered waterfall of blood red water!
After seeing the eerie landscape, it’s no surprise that this glen is rumored to be the meeting spot of witches and Druids- it certainly looks the part!
There’s parking for the trail along A809, about a five-minute walk north of the trailhead. The lot is quite small so if you’re visiting during the busy summer, try getting to the trailhead early so you can snag a spot!
Fairy Pools
Route: 3.7km (2.2 miles) out & back
Duration: 1.5 hours (more if you intend to swim in the pools)
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Crystal clear waterfalls and aqua pools surrounded by the stunning Cuillin mountains
The Fairy Pools Hike in Glen Brittle, Scotland is one of the most iconic short hikes in Scotland a “must do” for anyone visiting the Isle of Skye.
Along the route, you will discover a series of simply magical waterfalls cascading into small aqua blue pools which you can take a dip in if the weather is warm enough!
The hike is 3.7 km (2.2 miles) out and back but you can do as little or as much of the hike as you like as the beauty of the Fairy Pools, surrounded by the often snow-capped Cuillin mountains, starts right from the car park, where you start the hike.
Aside from paid parking (£6 for cars), there is no entrance fee to complete the Fairy Pools hike making it one of the best vacations for couples or families on a budget in Scotland.
There are decent facilities at the start of the hike including bathrooms and a water refill station.
While there are tours that visit the Fairy Pools Hike and the picturesque Isle of Skye in general, most visitors hire a rental car from Edinburgh and drive the 4.5 hours it takes to reach the Isle of Skye as part of a larger Scotland road trip.
The Fairy Pools are beautiful year round but the best time to visit is during warmer weather (from May to September) as you are permitted to take a dip in the crystal clear water. There is still access to the trail during winter but note the waterfalls/pools may be frozen over at this time of year.
Fife Coastal Path
Route length: 11-13 km (7-8 miles)
Duration: 6-7 Hours
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Beautiful coastal
The Fife coastal path is one of the most beautiful hiking trails in Scotland. It features beautiful coastal villages, sandy beaches, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Kincardine is the starting point for the route and Newburgh is the end. While the entire hike can take a few days, you can do parts of it as a day hike.
Elie to Cambo Sands is a beautiful part of this hike. It is a unique experience. You can explore various natural landscapes, dramatic cliffs and wildlife and you can indulge in some delicious seafood. The coastal landscape is very soothing and there are various attractions along the way and it is a great trail for nature enthusiasts. You may spot various birds, seals, and dolphins along the trail.
Research in advance and make sure to check the weather forecast to pack accordingly. Carry a digital/physical map for safety. Wear comfortable hiking shoes.
April to September is the best time for this hike as the days are longer and the weather is mild. Besides this trail, the beauty of Scotland in Spring is also worth exploring.
Parking is available but it gets crowded during peak season so you should go early to grab a spot.
Ellie Beach is a great place to start the hike or you can also start at Cambo Sands.
Fyrish Monument
Route length: 6km / 3.75 miles
Duration: 2 – 2.5 hours
Difficulty: moderately challenging
Highlights: Fyrish Monument and stunning panoramic views
You may be surprised to discover that this distinctive stone monument perched atop a hill in the Scottish Highlands has been modelled on the Gate of Negapatam in Madras! The monument was built under the orders of a local lord, Sir Hector Munro in 1782. It was commissioned following his return from serving as commander of British Forces in India, during a period of extreme economic hardship – the Highland Clearances – and provided vital employment for local people.
Reaching the Fyrish Monument is a rewarding although quite challenging experience as the route is a fairly continuous climb to the top and is best attempted between the months of April and October. There is a small designated car park just off the B1976 after the village of Evanton off the A9 in the northern Highlands (click here to open up exact location on googlemaps). The trail starts from here and is signposted as “The Jubilee Path”.
The hike begins in a woodland area, crosses a burn and after leaving the forested area steadily climbs uphill for the remainder of the walk. You’ll also come across a lochan on your left before carrying on to the summit. The monument itself is an imposing sight, however, you can’t fail to be impressed by the tremendous panoramic views once you reach the top. On a clear day, you can see the Cromarty Firth, the Moray Firth, and the Black Isle, with the rugged peaks of the Scottish Highlands stretching out before you including Ben Wyvis.
This wonderful hike makes for an easy day trip from Inverness (30 min drive) or a stop for those doing the North Coast 500!
Loch Morar to Loch Nevis
Route Length: 10km (5.5 miles) one way
Duration: 3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Loch Morar, Inverbeg 18th Century Chapel, Old Settlement, Loch Nevis
The Bracarina to Tarbet hike takes in some beautiful scenery of two lochs, ruins, and stunning mountains. Look out for deer and birds of prey. It’s usually nice and quiet.
The best time to hike it is during the summer months, ideally between May and September when the weather will be kinder, the hills full of colour and you can catch the ferry if you choose.
The hike starts at Bracarina, which is where the road along Loch Morar ends. There is room for 3-4 cars but I’ve never had a problem parking. The beginning of the path and some other parts can be wet and boggy so waterproof boots are essential. The terrain is varied with grassy and rocky sections but the path is clear to follow all the way.
The details above are for a one-way hike, which is what most visitors do and then take the ferry from Tarbet to Mallaig. You need to plan ahead for this though and pre-book the ferry (sails in summer only) and if necessary, plan your onward journey back to Morar by train, car or bike. Otherwise, go back on the same route.
Variations could include a much longer hike along Loch Morar from Morar Station or, if you’re backpacking, you could take the ferry to Inverie, Knoydart instead of Mallaig.
Meall a’Bhuachaille
Route Length: 9.7km (6 miles)
Duration: 3-3.5 hours
Difficulty: Hard
Highlights: An Lochan Uaine (Green Loch), Ryvoan bothy, spectacular views from the summit
Meall a’ Bhuachaille in the Cairngorms National Park is one of the best day hikes in Scotland. With just 520 meters (1707 ft) of elevation gain, you’re rewarded with unbelievable views over the surrounding area – including Loch Morlich and Ben Macdui (the second-highest peak in the country). You’ll hike past An Lochan Uaine (sometimes called the Green Loch or the Fairy Loch) along the way, which is one of the prettiest lochs to see in the Cairngorms. The route also goes past Ryvoan bothy – bothies are basic shelters in remote parts of the UK, free and available for anyone to use. You’ll also hike through Glenmore Forest Park on the return. It’s a steep climb up, so take your time.
Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks with you. Hiking poles can help with the descent down. During the winter months, the route can be covered in snow and ice, so the best time of year to do the hike is in spring, summer, or autumn (April to October). If you visit at the end of summer, you’ll catch the purple heather in bloom around the countryside. The hike can be started in multiple places – the easiest and shortest route starts at end of the road past Glenmore Lodge. There is limited parking available (free) in laybys here. Glenmore Forest Park Visitor Center is another option for a starting point – parking is more readily available (charge), however, it will add approximately 15-20 minutes to the hike. There is also parking available on the roadside around Loch Morlich.
Old Man of Storr
Route Length: 5.5km or 3.4 miles
Duration: 1.5 hours
Difficulty: Hard
Highlights: The iconic rock formation and impressive views
The walk to Old Man of Storr is deservedly one of the most popular hikes on the Isle of Skye. Starting from a carpark north of Portree, the goal of this hike is the iconic Old Man of Storr pinnacle, jutting out from the jagged range and featured in countless movies.
This walk starts rather easily, along a gravel path and passing through multiple gates. However, as you ascend, it becomes rockier and more difficult under foot, almost a scramble at times. In return though, you’re rewarded with beautiful views of the rugged landscape and shimmering sea below.
As you arrive at the Needle, the path becomes less clear. It’s possible to continue on to a viewpoint past the Old Man of Storr. Otherwise, you can start the descent back down to the carpark for a shorter walk. At the branch, take the path to the right for a different, slightly longer route back to the carpark.
Naturally, this hike is best completed in dry weather, if you are lucky enough, particularly due to the rocky terrain. It’s a must to wear proper footwear.
Dogs are welcome to join you on the hike to the Old Man of Storr, a fun dog-friendly thing to do in Scotland. Just keep your dog leashed, due to the presence of sheep.
Rosslyn Glenn
Route Length: 6.1km (3.8 miles)
Duration: 1.5-2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate, according to AllTrails
Highlights: Rosslyn Chapel, the Rosslyn Castle ruins, Rosslin village, and the ruins of what was once Scotland’s biggest gunpowder mill
Parking: Roslin Glen Country Park offers free parking and an entrance to the trails. You can also use the car park for Rosslyn Chapel.
Roslin Glenn is easy to reach by bus from the center of Edinburgh. This hike offers the ability to visit many stunning sights along the way. Make sure you leave time to visit Rosslyn Chapel, an unusually ornate gothic structure surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens. From there, you don’t want to miss the ruins of Rosslyn Castle. Then cross the enchanting footbridge across the River to enter Rosslyn Glenn.
Roslin Glenn is delightfully rugged, with a mix of scenery to discover. Expect a little of everything from gentle trails and meadows to a steep gorge featuring caves and cliffs. Part of the trail goes along a disused railway line and offers sweeping views of the Pentlands.
The Best Seasons to hike Rosslin Glen are spring, summer, and fall. Ice and snow may make it dangerous for all but the most experienced hikers in winter.
Roslin Country Park is a dog-friendly facility organized by the ranger service. It offers a picnic area with seating, an information panel and site leaflet, and free resource boxes aimed to help visitors explore the area.
Rubha Shleite
Route Length: 6km (approx. 3.7 miles)
Duration: 80 minutes (excluding time spent on the beach)
Difficulty: Easy, a small stretch of light scrambling.
Highlights: Hairy cows (Highland cows) along the route, crystal clear waters, amazing rock formations. If you can bring a SUP board or a blow up canoe, the waters are calm and beautiful.
Parking: Park near the old church where the route starts.
The west coast of Scotland plays home to some of the most stunning beaches in the world, although the weather might not have always got that memo. The Inner Hebrides, which are located close to the west coast, nurture about 700 islands of a range of sizes. The biggest and most popular is the Isle of Skye.
The Aird of Sleat on the Isle of Skye is the most south-westerly point that you can get to on foot and it hosts an exquisite beach, Rubha Shleite. This was recently voted one of the best beaches in the Isle of Skye, Scotland however due to the walk, it isn’t as popular as some of the beaches to the north of the island.
The elevation gain is only about 75m (246 feet) so it is a good walk for kids, however, it is not pushchair or wheelchair friendly.
In order to get here, you’ll need to drive and be totally independent. It takes a while to drive around Skye due to the traffic and the width and the roads so I’d recommend getting here early.
Stonehaven to Dunnottar Castle Hike
Route Length: 4.8 km (approx. 3 miles)
Duration: About 1.5 hours
Difficulty: Rated as Easy on All Trails
Highlights: Coastal views, Historic Fishing Village and Dunnottar Castle
Parking is available at both Dunnottar Castle and Stonehaven Harbour, giving you the flexibility to choose your starting point for this coastal trail.
At the castle, you can admire its historical ruins from the outside or pay a small fee to go inside. The castle is a key part of Scottish history, once serving as a hiding place for the Scottish Crown Jewels during the English invasion.
Stonehaven is a charming fishing village that offers more than just a starting point for the hike. You can indulge in world-class fish and chips and enjoy ice cream right on the seafront.
Late spring to early autumn is the best time to hike, offering the most stable Scottish weather conditions. This period is also excellent for bird-watching, especially for spotting puffins and gannets along the cliffs.
Don’t forget your camera; this Stonehaven to Dunnottar hike offers numerous photo opportunities, especially at sunrise or sunset, capturing the dramatic Scottish landscape.
Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a fulfilling day out, this hike offers a journey through Scotland’s rich history and stunning landscapes.
Tarmachan Ridge Circular Route
Route Length: 15km (9.3 miles)
Duration: 5-7 Hours
Difficulty: Challenging – technical, some narrow paths, scrambles & boggy parts
Highlights: incredible sweeping views of the Scottish highlands and Loch Tay (if the weather permits), high alpine pools, and native peat bogs.
The Tarmachan Ridge offers the very best of hiking in Scotland, with incredible views and rolling green mountains, surrounded by Lochs and villages. This is certainly a more technical and challenging hike, but there are plenty of relaxing breaks to catch your breath and enjoy the views. Those willing to take an adventurous day hike in the Ben Lawers Nature Reserve will be rewarded with a satisfying and scenic hike.
Thankfully, the hike from the Ben Lawers parking lot at 400m elevation with glimpses of Lochan na Lairige and the Ben Lawers Dam. You’ll follow a trail starting from the parking lot, working your way up the incredible Scottish landscape on an easy-to-follow trail. The path eventually becomes more technical. After summiting Meall nan Tarmachan, continue along a narrow ridge. If the weather permits, the views open into the vibrant green and deep valley below. The summit to Meall Garbh requires a bit of a scramble, but just before is your first chance to cut down early if you want a shorter hike. For those continuing, you’ll cross sheep gates, high alpine meadows, pools, and 360° views.
Keep a close eye on the trail as you descend, and be mindful of boggy areas. Waterproof hiking boots are a must, and gaiters are a good idea. Wear wind and waterproof layers and pack lots of snacks, water, hiking poles, hat/gloves, a good backpack, and a way to track your route.
Late April or September have the lowest chances of rain, but might be colder. You could enjoy this hike any month outside of winter. Choose a day with a lower chance of strong winds. But it wouldn’t be a hike in Scotland with perfect weather, now would it?
Did your favorite day hike in Scotland make the list? Let me know in the comments!
Save Best Hikes in Scotland for Later
Read More about Scotland
Essential Tips for Visiting Scotland
Ultimate Guide to Visiting Eilean Donan Castle
Such a great list of hikes! Would love to do the Meall a’Bhuachaille walk on my next trip to Scotland 🙂
Glad to have this list. Hope to hike in Scotland soon
My husband and I love to hike to waterfalls, lakes or rivers, but hiking to a castle would be awesome too.
I love hiking to a waterfall, but a castle hike just says “Scotland” to me haha