Scotland’s rugged landscapes, from misty lochs to jagged peaks, have called to my heart ever since I laced up my boots for my first hike up Ben A’an. The thrill of reaching a summit with sweeping views of the Highlands, or wandering a coastal path with waves crashing below, is unmatched. In 2025, Scotland’s trails offer something for everyone—whether you’re a seasoned Munro-bagger or a casual stroller chasing scenic views. This guide curates 26 of the best hikes, drawn from my own treks, expert recommendations, and community insights, to help you explore Scotland’s wild beauty. Let’s hit the trails and discover why hiking here feels like stepping into a legend.
Why Scotland is a Hiker’s Paradise
Scotland’s diverse terrain—think dramatic mountains, serene glens, and windswept coastlines—makes it a global hiking hotspot. With over 5,000 trails listed on sites like AllTrails and Walkhighlands, there’s no shortage of options. My first hike in the Trossachs taught me that Scotland’s trails aren’t just paths—they’re journeys through history, nature, and raw beauty. Whether you’re after a quick day hike or a multi-day epic, 2025 is the year to explore.
The Allure of Scotland’s Landscapes
From the ancient rocks of the Northwest Highlands to the rolling Lowlands, Scotland’s geology tells a story of glaciers and time. The freedom to roam, thanks to the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, lets you explore with minimal restrictions. It’s a place where you can stand atop a Munro and feel like the only soul for miles.
Best Time to Hike in 2025
Late May to early October offers long daylight hours and relatively stable weather, though Scotland’s skies are famously unpredictable. I learned this when a sunny day on Conic Hill turned into a drizzle—so always pack layers! September’s golden light and fewer crowds make it my favorite.
26 Unmissable Hikes in Scotland for 2025
These 26 hikes span Scotland’s regions, from the Highlands to the islands, catering to all skill levels. Each has been handpicked for its unique scenery, accessibility, or cultural significance, based on my experiences and insights from trusted sources like Walkhighlands and AllTrails.
Day Hikes for Stunning Views
1. Ben A’an, Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park
This short but steep 3.7 km hike offers jaw-dropping views of Loch Katrine for minimal effort. Despite its popularity, arriving early ensures a quieter climb. I felt like I’d conquered a Munro when I reached the summit—worth every step.
2. Old Man of Storr, Isle of Skye
A 3.8 km trail to Skye’s iconic basalt pinnacle, this hike blends moderate effort with cinematic views. The rocky path can be slippery, so sturdy boots are a must. My first visit here felt like stepping into a fantasy film.
3. Stac Pollaidh, Assynt
At just 5 km, this strenuous hike rewards with 360-degree views of the Northwest Highlands. The rocky crest requires some scrambling, but the panorama of Cul Mor and Suilven is unforgettable. I nearly gave up on the steep bits but was glad I pushed on.
4. Conic Hill, Loch Lomond
A 4.5 km hike with stunning Loch Lomond views, Conic Hill is perfect for families or beginners. The initial stairs are a workout, but the summit’s worth it. I loved spotting cows grazing below on my last visit.
5. The Cobbler, Arrochar Alps
This 12.5 km strenuous hike near Loch Long features a thrilling scramble to the true summit. The views of lush valleys are breathtaking. My heart raced descending the North Gully, but it was exhilarating.
6. Lost Valley (Coire Gabhail), Glencoe
A 4.5 km trail with a legendary past as a cattle-hiding spot, this hike involves light scrambling and dramatic glen views. The rocky terrain felt like an adventure straight out of a storybook.
7. Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh
A 4.2 km urban hike with panoramic city views, this is ideal for those short on time. It’s steep but manageable, and I loved seeing Edinburgh’s skyline from the top. No car needed—just walk from the Old Town.
8. Quiraing Circuit, Isle of Skye
This 7 km loop explores Skye’s Trotternish Peninsula with cliff-edge views. The steep climb is worth it for the lush, otherworldly scenery. I got caught in a drizzle here, but the views were still magical.
9. Ben Nevis Mountain Track, Fort William
The UK’s highest peak at 1,345 m, this 17 km trail is a challenging 8–10 hour climb. The 360-degree summit views are epic on clear days. I started at sunrise to beat the crowds and felt on top of the world.
Coastal and Island Hikes
10. Fife Coastal Path (Crail Section)
A 10.5 km stretch of this 187 km trail offers stunning Firth of Forth views. The path links charming fishing villages, and I loved stopping at Crail’s tearoom for a break. Perfect for nature lovers.
11. Sandwood Bay, Sutherland
A 13 km out-and-back hike to a pristine beach with a 60 m sea stack, this trail feels like the edge of the world. The wild isolation blew me away—pack a picnic to soak it in.
12. Old Man of Hoy, Orkney
This 9 km coastal hike showcases Britain’s tallest sea stack at 450 ft. The cliff-top views are stunning, and I felt a rush seeing the Atlantic’s power below. A ferry from the mainland is required.
13. Arran Coastal Way (Goatfell Section)
A 9 km hike to Arran’s highest peak, Goatfell, offers views as far as Northern Ireland. The final scramble is steep but rewarding. I took the ferry from Ardrossan and loved this mini-Scotland adventure.
14. Moray Coast Trail (Forres to Cullen)
A 72 km multi-day trail, this beginner-friendly coastal route offers level paths and wildlife spotting. I did a day section and saw seals basking near the shore—pure magic.
15. West Island Way, Isle of Bute
This 48 km trail mixes beaches, moors, and forests. A shorter 10 km section is perfect for a day hike. I loved the quiet beauty of Bute, a hidden gem in the Firth of Clyde.
Long-Distance Adventures
16. West Highland Way
This 154 km trail from Milngavie to Fort William takes 5–8 days and is Scotland’s most iconic route. The varied scenery, from lochs to mountains, kept me in awe. Well-marked and beginner-friendly.
17. Great Glen Way
A 126 km route past Loch Ness and the Caledonian Canal, this 6–9 day hike is moderately easy. I loved the loch views and spotting for Nessie—sadly, no sightings
18. Speyside Way
An 137 km trail through whisky country, this route connects the Moray Coast to the Cairngorms. I enjoyed a day section near Aviemore, surrounded by lush forests. Great for wildlife lovers.
19. John O’Groats Trail
This 235 km coastal trail from Inverness to John O’Groats can be split into sections. The rugged cliffs and sea views are stunning. I did a day hike and felt like I was at the edge of Scotland.
20. Southern Upland Way
Scotland’s longest Great Trail at 340 km, this coast-to-coast route takes 9–14 days. The rolling hills and quiet paths were a peaceful escape when I tackled a section last summer.
Family-Friendly and Easy Walks
21. Loch an Eilein, Cairngorms
A 7 km loop around a serene loch, this flat trail is perfect for families. The forest setting and castle ruins charmed me on a sunny afternoon. Wheelchair-accessible sections available.
22. The Hermitage, Dunkeld
A 2 km walk through lush woods to a waterfall and Victorian folly, this trail is easy and scenic. I loved watching salmon leap in late summer—a real treat.
23. Falls of Bruar, Pitlochry
This 2.5 km loop offers stunning waterfall views and is great for a quick stop. The path was muddy after rain, but my kids loved splashing through. Easy access from the A9.
24. Loch Leven, Kinross
A 12 km flat loop around Loch Leven, with a castle visit option. It’s a relaxing walk, and I stopped at the Larder for coffee halfway. Great for a leisurely day out.
Challenging Munro and Ridge Walks
25. Liathach, Torridon
An 11.5 km demanding hike, Liathach’s near-vertical rock terraces test even seasoned hikers. The views of Loch Torridon are unreal—I felt like I was on another planet.
26. Ring of Steall, Fort William
This 16 km trail combines four Munros in a classic loop. The rugged terrain and epic views made it one of my toughest but most rewarding hikes. Not for beginners.
Comparison: Day Hikes vs. Long-Distance Trails
| Aspect | Day Hikes | Long-Distance Trails |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 1–8 hours | 5–14 days |
| Difficulty | Easy to strenuous | Moderate to challenging |
| Best For | Beginners, families, short trips | Experienced hikers, multi-day adventures |
| Examples | Ben A’an, Old Man of Storr | West Highland Way, Southern Upland Way |
Pros and Cons of Each
Day Hikes
- Pros: Quick, accessible, less planning needed, ideal for busy schedules.
- Cons: Limited scope for deep exploration, can be crowded in popular areas.
Long-Distance Trails
- Pros: Immersive, diverse scenery, sense of accomplishment.
- Cons: Requires significant time, fitness, and logistical planning.
Essential Gear for Hiking in Scotland
- Footwear: Waterproof boots like Salomon Quest 4 GTX for muddy trails.
- Clothing: Layers and a waterproof jacket—check out Rab for quality gear.
- Navigation: OS maps or apps like Walkhighlands.
- Safety: First aid kit, whistle, and a charged phone with offline maps.
- Midge Protection: Smidge spray for summer hikes—trust me, midges are no joke!
For budget-friendly options, try Decathlon for boots and layers. I learned the hard way to always pack gaiters for boggy trails.
Planning Your 2025 Hiking Adventure
Where to Start
- Research: Use Walkhighlands or AllTrails for detailed trail guides and maps.
- Guides: Consider hiring a local guide for challenging routes like Liathach. Check Rob Carr Tours.
- Accommodation: Book B&Bs or bothies early, especially for multi-day hikes.
Weather and Safety Tips
Scotland’s weather is wild—pack for all seasons, even in summer. Check Mountain Weather Information Service for hill-specific forecasts. I once got caught in a storm on Skye, and my waterproofs saved the day.
People Also Ask (PAA)
What are the best hikes in Scotland for beginners?
Beginner-friendly hikes include Loch an Eilein, The Hermitage, and Conic Hill. These offer stunning views with manageable terrain and shorter distances, perfect for new hikers.
Which Scottish hike has the best views?
Ben A’an and the Old Man of Storr are famous for their breathtaking vistas. Ben A’an offers Loch Katrine views, while Storr showcases Skye’s dramatic cliffs and sea.
When is the best time to hike in Scotland?
Late May to early October is ideal for stable weather and long daylight. September offers fewer crowds and golden landscapes, but always pack for rain.
Where can I find hiking maps for Scotland?
Walkhighlands and AllTrails provide detailed maps and GPX files. Ordnance Survey maps (e.g., OS Explorer OL39) are also reliable for navigation.
FAQ Section
How do I prepare for hiking in Scotland?
Check weather forecasts, pack waterproofs, and use reliable maps like Walkhighlands. Start with shorter trails if you’re new, and always carry a first aid kit.
Are Scotland’s hikes safe for solo hikers?
Most trails are safe with proper preparation, but remote routes like Liathach require experience. Tell someone your plans and carry a phone with offline maps.
What’s the easiest Munro to climb?
Ben Lomond is considered the most beginner-friendly Munro at 974 m. It’s a 11 km round trip with clear paths and stunning Loch Lomond views.
Can kids hike in Scotland?
Yes, trails like Loch an Eilein and Falls of Bruar are family-friendly with flat paths and engaging scenery. Always check trail conditions for safety.
Where can I buy hiking gear in Scotland?
Decathlon and Rab offer affordable, high-quality gear. For online shopping, Amazon UK has a wide range of boots and waterproofs.
Final Thoughts
Scotland’s trails are more than just hikes—they’re a chance to connect with nature, history, and yourself. From the heart-pounding scramble up The Cobbler to the serene stroll around Loch an Eilein, these 26 hikes offer something for every adventurer in 2025. I’ll never forget my first glimpse of Loch Katrine from Ben A’an—it felt like Scotland was whispering its secrets. So, grab your boots, check the weather, and start exploring. The wild beauty of Scotland is waiting to steal your heart.