Hiking Trails In Scotland

7 Of The Best Hiking Trails In Scotland

Scotland has some of the best scenery in Europe, and these hiking trails in Scotland will show you a new side of the country. Pull your walking shoes on to explore city summits and mountain peaks, as well as coastal paths and even a hidden glen.

Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking to get some fresh air on an easy-ish stroll, there’s walks for all levels of fitness to enjoy.

Best Hiking Trails In ScotlandHow do these rankings work?

1. Glenfinnan Viaduct Trail

You can’t come to Scotland and not see the famous railway bridge from the Harry Potter films! The walking route here is also a must-do, with beautiful views of Loch Shiel.

Distance: 4km

2. West Highland Way

This iconic route takes in everything from countryside parks to loch-shores and open moorlands to steep mountains. It’s a great hiking challenge that can be broken into achievable chunks if time (or energy!) doesn’t allow for you to tackle the route from end-to-end.

Distance: 154km

3. Arthur’s Seat

No visit to Scotland is complete without a jaunt outside Edinburgh to climb the iconic Arthur’s Seat for the best views of the city below. The 5.5km walk takes about an hour and a half, so it’s the perfect afternoon stroll.

Distance: 5.5km

Walks in Edinburgh

4. Ben Nevis

Kown by locals as ‘The Ben’, the UK’s tallest mountain stands at 1,345m. The walk is often described as “slow but steady” and takes between six and seven hours to complete, along with a few sit downs to admire the views as you go.

It’s pretty likely that you’ll come across some snow on your way up, even in summer.

Distance: The Ben Nevis Mountain Path (the ‘Pony Track’) is around 16km (start to finish) and rises 1,300m

5. Coire Gabhail

Famous for its atmospheric peaks, bloody history and taking a starring role in the James Bond film Skyfall, Glen Coe in the west Highlands has some stunning walks.

Coire Gabhail, known as the Lost Valley, is a top spot for a two to three hour rough and ready hike through mountain scenery.

Distance: 4km

6. Fife Coastal Path

Walk to this historic fishing village on Scotland’s east coast for one of the best hiking trails in Scotland. The Fife Coastal Path runs from Kincardine in the south of Fife to Newburgh up on the banks of the River Tay, so pick a section to tackle, such as the 14 22.5 km Burntisland to Buckhaven route.

Distance: 188km

Hiking Trails In Scotland
Image: @fifecoastalpath/Instagram

7. Tobermory Bay to Aros Park

This scenic two hour coastal walk ascends up round the edge of Tobermory Bay on the Isle of Mull, with pretty views of the colourful buildings on the seafront and beyond.

Distance: 5.5km

Hiking Trails In Scotland
Image: Visit Scotland
Sarah Clayton-Lea

Co-founder of Big 7 Travel, Sarah created the company through her passion for championing the world's best food and travel experiences. Before her career in digital media, where she previously held roles such as Editor of Food&Wine Ireland, Sarah worked in the hospitality industry in Dublin and New York.

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