Hikes in The Highlands, Scotland
The Highlands

hikes in The Highlands

Region in Scotland, United Kingdom
The Highlands Trail Map

Walks in The Highlands of Scotland

Feel the ghosts of legends, traditions, bloody clan clashes, and stories harking back centuries while walking in the Highlands. Seriously—there's no better way to immerse in the incredible scenery sweeping Scotland's north. Whether you're summiting Ben Nevis, several Munros in one go, or exploring mystical gorges, the folklore imagery will transport you to some time in the past, where legends dictated ways of life and non-fiction happenings survive as often-told tales today. The best part is that you don't need to be an advanced hillwalker to experience the phenomenal scenery the Highlands has to offer. Almost all ages will find trails leading to castles, viewpoints, summits, through glens that give glimpses of the great yore of the Highlands.

The 10 Greatest Walks in the Highlands

Sift through the list of epic walks in the Highlands below, choose your favourites, lace up your boots and off you go! Pack a range of walks into your visit to the Highlands: gloomy and misty gorge meanders speckled with glistening waterfalls, seaside strolls, moderate to intense hill walks for an unveiling of magical scenery, bagging Munros (sometimes several in one adventure) to reach incredible viewpoints, family-friendly walks leading to castles, forest and moorland explorations, and trails hugging fairytale lochs…

What we're trying to say is that the wild landscapes never cease to amaze or end! When you’re out and about, be sure to look out for wild Highland cows, the Scottish wildcat often confused with a lost house cat, golden eagles, humpback whale, puffins, the rare red squirrel, dolphins, and red deer.

Not sure where to start? Take a look at some of the best walks in the Highlands below!

  1. Ben Nevis Mountain Path Walk - Tackle the most straightforward path leading to the ever-so rewarding summit of Ben Nevis! We suggest taking on a few other hillwalks before attempting this unforgettable, bucket-list worthy adventure—come prepared for snow as well, even in the summer.
  2. Old Man of Storr Walk - Revel in the fascinating rock formations making up the Old Man of Storr on this epic, short adventure! We've ranked the Old Man of Storr Walk as best for older children only due to some steep sections and rockfall potential on rainier days. Nevertheless, this is one of the best walks to do when visiting the Isle of Skye.
  3. Stac Pollaidh Walk - Are you looking for an easy adventure? Skip this one. The Stac Pollaidh Walk may be short, but it's definitely not for the faint of heart! After a steep elevation gain, bask in views of Assynt, Summer Isles, and Loch Veyatie. Get ready for a highlight reel of vistas jam-packed into a few kilometres.
  4. Buachaille Etive Mòr Walk - Bag two Munros on the Buachaille Etive Mòr Walk (Stob Dearg and Stob na Bròige)! But that's not all! The Buachaille Etive Mòr ridge boasts four summits, and guess what? You'll tackle all four on this unruly, intense, and enriching adventure, where a sightline filled with staggering peaks awaits!
  5. Sandwood Bay Walk - Gather your family and head out to one of—if not the—best beaches in Scotland, the pristine Sandwood Bay. Drop your jaw at the untouched golden sand illuminated by the glistening seascape, cliffs, and sea stack! Maybe you'll even spot a marine animal or two.
  6. Suilven Walk - Wishing to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life for a full day? The Suilven Walk will grant you this wish! Enjoy an unveiling of mystical views as you ascend Suilven (2398ft). Be prepared to take on some minor scrambling and steep climbs—it’ll all be worth it in the end!
  7. Steall Falls and the Nevis Gorge Walk - Fall in love with the dramatic imagery coating Nevis Gorge as you make your way to the tumbling Steall Falls! This short walk makes for a fun and memorable adventure for the entire family!
  8. Quiraing Circuit Walk - The Quiraing Circuit Walk may seem relaxing, but your heart will shoot up along this hill loop! Thankfully, the folklore-like, mystical, supernatural scenery will divert your attention from any huffs and puffs. Walk by Needle, Prison, and various Highland natural wonders on this bang-for-your-buck adventure. Older children will enjoy this one!
  9. Neist Point Walk - The Neist Point Walk is another must-do adventure on the Isle of Skye. Follow a path surrounded by cliffs dropping into the swirling sea below as you head towards a lighthouse harking back to 1909. This walk is family-friendly, but keep your kids close and don’t stray off the path!
  10. Pap of Glencoe Walk - Gain a significant elevation in a short distance to reach 360-views of Loch Leven nestled in front of the Mamroes range on the Pap of Glencoe Walk. This walk is definitely a Highlands highlight!

When Is The Best Time To Walk in the Highlands?

While you can do most walks year-round, we suggest tackling most routes between May and October when there’s a higher chance of drier and clear conditions. However, some routes may still hold snow deep into the summer, making it essential to always research conditions before you go and come prepared. It’s also common to experience windy conditions. Pack layers to stay warm on hillwalks with a lot of exposure!

Best Regions for Walking in the Highlands

The Highlands boasts several incredible regions! To start, we suggest going to Fort William, Inverness, or the Isle of Skye, where amazing adventures await.

Other Outdoor Activities in the Highlands

While walking through the forest, moorland, alongside lochs and coastlines, bagging a Munro, and summiting hills sit atop the list of adventures in the Highlands; you'll also find a collection of other things to do! Go sea swimming and birdwatching in Assynt, check out Loch Ness and the Urquhart Castle near Inverness, go mountain biking and road biking in and around Fort William and Inverness (to start, anyway), and kayak riveting sea waters around Shetland, Orkney, and the Outer Hebrides. Honestly, the list of things to do in the Highlands is endless!

Adventure Tours in the Highlands

Not in the mood to plan your own adventure? We’ve got you covered! Check out our list of adventure tours in the Highlands and take a look at these tours If you’re interested in taking on the West Highland Way.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Scottish Highlands known for?

Other than holding unforgettable legends and fables, the Highlands have set the scene for other stories to come to life, such as Harry Potter and Outlander. The Highlands is also known for producing whisky!

Where do the Highlands start?

Starting from Fort William, the Highlands continue by Skye, bending around North Coast 500 to the far north towards Durness and John O’Groats, then past Inverness and Elgin in the east.

Can you go wild camping in the Highlands?

Wild camping is allowed throughout Scotland, but due to heavy traffic, some areas are subject to more rules or may require you to book a campsite. Learn more about wild camping in Scotland here.

Are most trails dog-friendly in the Highlands?

Yes! However, some routes may not be suitable or safe for dogs, so be sure to check out this information before you take your furry friend along on your adventures.

Find other amazing walking regions in the UK:

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The best hikes in The Highlands

Ben Nevis Mountain Path Walk

01. Ben Nevis Mountain Path Walk
Difficulty

10.6mi 4,436ft 6.5-9.5h

Tackling Scotland’s Ben Nevis Mountain Path Walk is no easy feat! This adventure is best… Read More

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9Overall Rating Technical Difficulty Physical Difficulty
Talisker Bay Trail Map

02. Talisker Bay Trail
Difficulty

2.2mi 177ft 1h

The Talisker Bay Trail makes for a relaxing family adventure! Nothing beats the swirl of… Read More

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Old Man of Storr Walk

03. Old Man of Storr Walk
Difficulty

2.8mi 945ft 1.5-2h

The Old Man of Storr Walk is an incredibly popular walk—and for good reason. This… Read More

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Stac Pollaidh Circular Walk

04. Stac Pollaidh Circular Walk
Difficulty

2.9mi 1,673ft 2-3h

Don’t have a lot of time, but want to pack an epic adventure into a… Read More

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Stac Pollaidh Walk

05. Stac Pollaidh Walk
Difficulty

2.9mi 1,670ft 2-3h

If you're looking for an easy stroll, the Stac Pollaidh Walk isn't it! This walk… Read More

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Buachaille Etive Mòr Walk

06. Buachaille Etive Mòr Walk
Difficulty

8.1mi 3,642ft 5.5-7.5h

The Buachaille Etive Mòr Walk is a tailor-made adventure for avid hillwalkers seeking something rugged,… Read More

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Sandwood Bay Walk

07. Sandwood Bay Walk
Difficulty

8.1mi 492ft 2.5-4h

The Sandwood Bay Walk may be slightly long, but the lower elevation gain makes for… Read More

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Suilven Walk

08. Suilven Walk
Difficulty

12.4mi 3,107ft 6-8.5h

Looking for the ultimate day-long adventure? The Suilven Walk will keep you well entertained! Expect… Read More

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Quiraing Circuit Walk

09. Quiraing Circuit Walk
Difficulty

4.0mi 1,227ft 2-3h

The Quiraing Circuit Walk may seem easy, but this hill loop will have you huffing… Read More

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Ben Hope Walk

10. Ben Hope Walk
Difficulty

4.7mi 3,104ft 4-5.5h

Looking for an intense, rewarding adventure in the remote, desolate wild? The Ben Hope Walk… Read More

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Yes, there are more than 10

The Highlands is so beautiful that we can not give you only 10 hikes. So here is a list of bonus hikes in The Highlands that you should take a look at as well

Neist Point Walk

11. Neist Point Walk
Difficulty

1.9mi 466ft 1-1.5h

The Neist Point Walk has earned a reputation for being one of the most stunning… Read More

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Behind Liathach Walk

12. Behind Liathach Walk
Difficulty

7.5mi 1,575ft 3.5-5h

Explore the natural character carved throughout the Behind Liathach Walk. There’s just something magical about… Read More

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Beinn Eighe Mountain Trail

13. Beinn Eighe Mountain Trail
Difficulty

4.0mi 1,923ft 3-4h

The Beinn Eighe Mountain Trail travels through varied terrain, following a waymarked path—Britain's singular waymarked… Read More

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Needle Rock, The Storr and The Old Man of Storr Circular Walk

14. Needle Rock, The Storr and The Old Man of Storr Circular Walk
Difficulty

5.3mi 1,896ft 3-4.5h

You can’t go to the Isle of Skye and skip out on the incredible Needle… Read More

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Corrieshalloch Gorge Viewpoint Walk

15. Corrieshalloch Gorge Viewpoint Walk
Difficulty

1.2mi 305ft 0.5-1h

Looking for a short, family-friendly adventure that doesn’t compromise on scenery? The Corrieshalloch Gorge Viewpoint… Read More

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Bidean nam Bian Walk

16. Bidean nam Bian Walk
Difficulty

6.8mi 4,318ft 5.5-8h

The Bidean nam Bian Walk takes you deep into the Scottish Highlands, unveiling an up-close… Read More

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Camusdarach Beach Walk

17. Camusdarach Beach Walk
Difficulty

1.2mi 26ft 0.5h

The Camusdarach Beach Walk may be the setting for the film, Local Hero, but it… Read More

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Falls of Shin Walk Map

18. Falls of Shin Walk
Difficulty

2.0mi 295ft 1h

Looking for a fun, family-friendly adventure? Take on the Falls of Shin Walk! The low… Read More

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Ben Wyvis Path

19. Ben Wyvis Path
Difficulty

8.7mi 3,068ft 5-7h

Looking to bag Munro? The Ben Wyvis Path grants the chance to do just that!… Read More

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Loch Lochy Walk from Kilfinnan

20. Loch Lochy Walk from Kilfinnan
Difficulty

11.8mi 4,127ft 7-9.5h

The Loch Lochy Walk from Kilfinnan takes you high above Loch Lochy for phenomenal bird's… Read More

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Steall Falls and the Nevis Gorge Walk

21. Steall Falls and the Nevis Gorge Walk
Difficulty

2.2mi 722ft 1-1.5h

The Steall Falls and the Nevis Gorge Walk make for the ultimate short, family-friendly adventure!… Read More

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Inchnadamph to Kylestrome Walk

22. Inchnadamph to Kylestrome Walk
Difficulty

17.1mi 3,583ft 8-11h

Some may find the one-way part of the Inchnadamph to Kylestrome Walk intimidating, but trust… Read More

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Fyrish Monument Walk

23. Fyrish Monument Walk
Difficulty

3.7mi 958ft 2-2.5h

The Fyrish Monument Walk fuses a fun combination of views to form an unforgettable adventure—despite… Read More

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Loch Coruisk Walk

24. Loch Coruisk Walk
Difficulty

4.3mi 400ft 1.5-2h

The Loch Coruisk Walk may boast the prettiest freshwater scenery in Scotland, making this a… Read More

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Devil's Staircase Walk Map

25. Devil's Staircase Walk
Difficulty

8.7mi 1,411ft 3.5-5h

The Devil's Staircase Walk travels from Kings House to Kinlochleven along the famed long-distance route,… Read More

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Falls of Glomach Walk

26. Falls of Glomach Walk
Difficulty

10.9mi 2,592ft 5.5-7.5h

This walking guide takes you to the Falls of Glomach via the easiest and shortest… Read More

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The Pap of Glencoe Walk

27. The Pap of Glencoe Walk
Difficulty

4.3mi 2,349ft 3-4.5h

Don't let the 4.3mi distance fool you into thinking this will be a… Read More

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Ring of Steall Walk

28. Ring of Steall Walk
Difficulty

9.9mi 5,499ft 7.5-10.5h

Completing the circular Ring of Steall Walk is no easy feat! Expect to tackle not… Read More

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South Glen Shiel Ridge Walk

29. South Glen Shiel Ridge Walk
Difficulty

16.6mi 5,965ft 9.5-13.5h

The South Glen Shiel Ridge Walk is a favourite among Munro-baggers as this incredible, adventurous… Read More

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Lost Valley (Coire Gabhail) Walk

30. Lost Valley (Coire Gabhail) Walk
Difficulty

2.5mi 1,099ft 1.5-2.5h

The Lost Valley (Coire Gabhail) Walk may look easy on paper, but trust us when… Read More

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Stob Dubh via Buachaille Etive Beag Walk

31. Stob Dubh via Buachaille Etive Beag Walk
Difficulty

5.0mi 3,084ft 4-5.5h

The Stob Dubh via Buachaille Etive Beag Walk has you summiting two Munros along the… Read More

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Ben Nevis by Càrn Mòr Dearg Walk

32. Ben Nevis by Càrn Mòr Dearg Walk
Difficulty

10.9mi 4,941ft 7-10h

Want to climb two Munros in a day? And we aren’t just talking about regular… Read More

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Blà Bheinn Walk

33. Blà Bheinn Walk
Difficulty

5.0mi 3,248ft 4-6h

The Blà Bheinn Walk traverses a not-so-technical path at first before getting a bit more… Read More

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Glencoe Lochan Circular Walk

34. Glencoe Lochan Circular Walk
Difficulty

1.6mi 328ft 0.5-1h

The Glencoe Lochan Circular Walk makes for a fantastic family-friendly adventure! This short, relaxing adventure… Read More

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Duntulm Castle Walk

35. Duntulm Castle Walk
Difficulty

0.6mi 49ft 0.5h

The short Duntulm Castle Walk makes for a fun, family-friendly adventure, especially if you're craving… Read More

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The Fairy Glen Circular Walk

36. The Fairy Glen Circular Walk
Difficulty

1.2mi 148ft 0.5h

Want to feel like you’re a character in a timeless storybook? The Fairy Glen Circular… Read More

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Beinn Dòrain and Beinn an Dòthaidh Walk

37. Beinn Dòrain and Beinn an Dòthaidh Walk
Difficulty

8.7mi 4,029ft 6-8h

The Beinn Dòrain and Beinn an Dòthaidh Walk winds atop two incredible Munros, replete with… Read More

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Five Sisters of Kintail Walk

38. Five Sisters of Kintail Walk
Difficulty

9.3mi 4,544ft 6.5-9h

Explore an incredible ridgeline on the ever-so strenuous Five Sisters of Kintail Walk in the… Read More

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Ben Starav and Glas Bheinn Mhòr Walk

39. Ben Starav and Glas Bheinn Mhòr Walk
Difficulty

9.9mi 4,669ft 6.5-9.5h

The Ben Starav and Glas Bheinn Mhòr Walk grants the chance to bag two Munros… Read More

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Knockan Crag Trail

40. Knockan Crag Trail
Difficulty

1.2mi 607ft 1h

The Knockan Crag Trail is a fun walking adventure for the entire family, as it… Read More

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Ness Walk

41. Ness Walk
Difficulty

1.9mi 151ft 0.5-1h

Ness Walk offers the chance for a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of… Read More

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Ben Bhraggie Circular Walk

42. Ben Bhraggie Circular Walk
Difficulty

5.9mi 1,299ft 3-4h

The Ben Bhraggie Circular Walk packs a punch when it comes to scenery and monuments!… Read More

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Oldshoremore Bay Circuit

43. Oldshoremore Bay Circuit
Difficulty

5.0mi 541ft 2-2.5h

The Oldshoremore Bay Circuit takes you to three stunning sandy bays with headland traverses in… Read More

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Whin Park Loop Walk Map

44. Whin Park Loop Walk
Difficulty

1.0mi 59ft 0.5h

The Whin Park Loop makes for a fantastic family-friendly adventure, especially if you’re thinking of… Read More

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Binnein Mòr and Na Gruagaichean Walk

45. Binnein Mòr and Na Gruagaichean Walk
Difficulty

8.7mi 4,383ft 6-8.5h

Looking for the ultimate walking adventure in the Highlands? Experienced hillwalkers will definitely want to… Read More

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Cul Mor Walk Map

46. Cul Mor Walk
Difficulty

8.4mi 2,651ft 4.5-6.5h

The Cul Mor Walk has you climbing a mostly easy-to-follow path leading up a Corbett,… Read More

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Eas a' Chual Aluinn Walk Map

47. Eas a' Chual Aluinn Walk
Difficulty

6.1mi 1,709ft 3-4.5h

The Eas a' Chual Aluinn Walk takes you on an out-and-back adventure to the tallest… Read More

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Sgurr na Stri Walk

48. Sgurr na Stri Walk
Difficulty

14.6mi 2,116ft 6-8.5h

The Sgurr na Stri Walk climbs to incredible views overlooking the sea, Loch Coruisk, and… Read More

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Stob Ghabhar and Stob a'Choire Odhair Walk Map

49. Stob Ghabhar and Stob a'Choire Odhair Walk
Difficulty

9.9mi 4,065ft 6-9h

Confident and experienced hillwalkers should only attempt the Stob Ghabhar and Stob a'Choire Odhair Walk… Read More

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Brother's Point Walk Map

50. Brother's Point Walk
Difficulty

2.0mi 305ft 1h

The Brother’s Point Walk takes you along the coast, unveiling magical views of the otherworldly… Read More

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Craig Phadrig Circular Walk Map

51. Craig Phadrig Circular Walk
Difficulty

1.2mi 289ft 0.5-1h

The Craig Phadrig Circular Walk may sit close to Inverness, but it has a magical… Read More

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Inchree Falls Circular Walk

52. Inchree Falls Circular Walk
Difficulty

3.1mi 912ft 1.5-2.5h

Explore a collection of waterfalls along the family-friendly Inchree Falls Circular Walk! The track follows… Read More

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Meall Fuar Mhonaidh Walk Map

53. Meall Fuar Mhonaidh Walk
Difficulty

5.6mi 1,755ft 3-4.5h

The Meall Fuar Mhonaidh Walk follows a straightforward path atop Meall Fuar Mhonaidh, the lofty… Read More

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Craig Dunain Walk Map

54. Craig Dunain Walk
Difficulty

2.9mi 843ft 1.5-2h

The Craig Dunain Walk winds along a secluded path below a canopy of trees! The… Read More

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Culloden Woods Walk Map

55. Culloden Woods Walk
Difficulty

3.8mi 732ft 1.5-2.5h

The Culloden Woods Walk circumnavigates the battlefield where the Battle of Culloden occurred. Discover remnants… Read More

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Dog Falls Walk Map

56. Dog Falls Walk
Difficulty

2.5mi 574ft 1-1.5h

The Dog Falls Walk boasts a lovely, serene setting, punctuated by a waterfall, River Affric,… Read More

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Duncraig Castle from Innes Street Walk Map

57. Duncraig Castle from Innes Street Walk
Difficulty

3.4mi 390ft 1.5-2h

The Duncraig Castle from Innes Street Walk is a fun, easy-going adventure tailor-made for the… Read More

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The Saddle, Forcan Ridge and Sgùrr na Sgìne Walk

58. The Saddle, Forcan Ridge and Sgùrr na Sgìne Walk
Difficulty

8.1mi 4,429ft 6-8.5h

The Saddle, Forcan Ridge and Sgùrr na Sgìne Walk is a rugged adventure that boasts… Read More

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Kyle of Durness Circular Walk

59. Kyle of Durness Circular Walk
Difficulty

6.6mi 912ft 2.5-3.5h

The Kyle of Durness Circular Walk packs a punch when it comes to the scenery!… Read More

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Foyers Falls Walk

60. Foyers Falls Walk
Difficulty

0.3mi 115ft 0.5h

The Foyers Falls Walk may be short, but it does not compromise on scenery. Wander… Read More

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Hermit's Castle Walk Map

61. Hermit's Castle Walk
Difficulty

1.3mi 89ft 0.5h

The Hermit's Castle Walk is a fun, family-friendly adventure that reveals shimmering bright blue coastal… Read More

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Ord Hill Walk Map

62. Ord Hill Walk
Difficulty

3.8mi 988ft 2-2.5h

If you still have some gas left in the tank or have a day between… Read More

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