10 Best Walks In The Scotland

Alright, folks! If you’re up for some epic mountain adventures in the Scottish Highlands, you’ve come to the right place. Scotland’s got some seriously stunning hikes—whether you’re keen on bagging Munros, scrambling over ridges, or just soaking up those jaw-dropping views, the Highlands have got you covered. Here’s a rundown of my top 10 mountain walks in the Scottish Highlands—packed with more detail and tips for each trek, so you know what you’re in for.

1. Ben Nevis (1,345m)

Location: Near Fort William
Distance: 10.5 miles (17 km) round trip
Difficulty: Tough as old boots

Let’s kick things off with the big daddy—Ben Nevis, the tallest peak in the UK. You start from Fort William and head up the Mountain Track (sometimes called the Tourist Path, but don’t let the name fool ya—it’s no stroll in the park). It’s a proper leg-burner, with a steady, steep climb that’ll leave you gasping, but on a clear day, the views from the top are pure magic. If you’re after a bit more of a challenge, take on the Carn Mor Dearg Arête for a ridge walk that’ll get your heart racing.

Start the walk from the Glen Nevis Visitors Centre Car Park, buses are available from Fort William between May and September. The round trip to the summit should take around 7-9 hours in good conditions or much longer if like us you wanna hang around and soak up the views.

2.Five Sisters of Kintail

Location: Glen Shiel
Distance: 8 miles (13 km)
Difficulty: Grueling

Fancy something a bit wilder? The Five Sisters of Kintail are a set of Munros that’ll test your mettle. This hike is like a Highland rollercoaster—up, down, and along a rugged ridge with views that’ll blow your socks off. You’ll be scrambling a bit here and there, so this one’s for those who like their hikes with a side of adrenaline. But man, those sweeping vistas over the west coast? Absolute belters.

Start the walk at the Glen Shiel Car Park off the A87. The route should take around 8-10 hours in good conditions. If your travelling from Glasgow or Inverness by Citilink Bus if you ask the driver nicely they will sometimes stop and let you out near the Car Park.

3. Buachaille Etive Mòr (1,021m)

Location: Glen Coe
Distance: 8 miles (12.5 km) round trip
Difficulty: Not for the faint-hearted

You’ve probably seen Buachaille Etive Mòr on postcards—it’s the iconic pyramid-shaped peak that looks like it’s straight out of “Braveheart.” The route starts at Altnafeadh, and it’s a steep slog up through Coire na Tulaich. You’ll need to scramble a bit to get to the summit, but once you’re up there, the views over Glen Etive are something else. Trust me, it’s worth every bead of sweat.

Start the route at the layby at Altnafeadh, if your coming by public transport the nearest bus stop is at the Kingshouse which will add an extra couple of miles to your route. The main route from layby to summit and back should take around 7-9 hours on a good day.

4. Ben Lomond (974m)

Location: Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park
Distance: 7.5 miles (12 km) round trip
Difficulty: Doable for most

If you’re just dipping your toes into the world of Munro bagging, Ben Lomond is the one for you. It’s the most southerly Munro and pretty straightforward as far as mountains go. The path is well-marked, and the views over Loch Lomond are a treat. It’s still a good workout, don’t get me wrong, but nothing too hairy—perfect for a day out with your pals or the family.

The route starts at the Rowardennan Car Park, if your coming by public transport the only option is a bus to Tarbet then a summer ferry from Tarbet Pier across the Loch to the start point. If your in reasonably good shape you should be able to do this route in around 5 hours.

5. An Teallach (1,062m)

Location: Wester Ross
Distance: 10 miles (16 km)
Difficulty: Savage

An Teallach is a bit of a beast. This one’s for the thrill-seekers who want their hike to feel more like an adventure movie. It’s got jagged pinnacles, scrambles that’ll test your nerves, and some exposed sections that’ll have you clinging on like a limpet. If you’re game for it, you’ll be rewarded with some of the most epic mountain views in Scotland—seriously, you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world.

The route starts at a layby on the A832 Dundonnell, Westerbus has services from Inverness to Dundonnell 3 times a week and its a short walk from the stop to the start of the trail. This one should take around 9 to 10 hours so be prepared for a serious day out of the hills.

6. Suilven (731m)

Location: Assynt, Sutherland
Distance: 12 miles (19 km) round trip
Difficulty: A fair slog

Suilven isn’t the tallest, but it sure as hell is one of the most striking. Its long, narrow ridge rises out of the flat bogs of Assynt like a prehistoric beast. The walk in is a bit of a trudge—wet and boggy in places—but once you start climbing, you get some stunning views over the lochs and moorlands. Reaching the summit ridge feels like a victory; just don’t forget to bring your camera—those views are pure gold.

The route starts at the end of the Public Road from Lochinver that leads towards the Glencanisp Lodge. Public transport in this wild corner of the Scottish Highlands is sparse to say the least so your probably going to have to get here under your own steam. This ones a bit of a slog taking around 9 hours so do yourself a favor and get an early start!

7. Beinn Alligin (986m)

Location: Torridon
Distance: 7.5 miles (12 km)
Difficulty: Hard

Let’s throw Beinn Alligin into the mix—it’s a gem in Torridon. This walk gives you a bit of everything: two Munros, some scrambling, and even a spot called the Horns of Alligin, which is a bit of a boulder dance for those who fancy it. The route takes you up through lush glens and onto the ridge where you can spot deer and, if you're lucky, maybe even a golden eagle. The views over Loch Torridon and the surrounding peaks are mint, and the sense of achievement when you finish is next level.

Start point for the route is the Car Park on the west bank of Abhainn Coire Mhic Nobuil, no puclic transport is available here. The route takes around 9 hours with some big ascent and lots of rocky terrain.

8. Stac Pollaidh (612m)

Location: Assynt, Sutherland
Distance: 3 miles (5 km) round trip
Difficulty: Wee but steep

Stac Pollaidh might be a short hike, but don’t be fooled—it’s got more than enough character. The ascent is steep, and the path can be a bit rough, but the rock formations at the top are wild. You can have a bit of a scramble around if you’re up for it, and the views over Loch Lurgainn and the mountains of Assynt are top-notch. Perfect for a half-day adventure with a lot of bang for your buck.

The route starts ironically at the Stac Pollaidh Car Park, there is a very sporadic bus that stops here from Ullapool but possibly best not to rely on this and make other arrangements. Short but steep, you should crack this one in around 4 hours, the path doesnt actually reach the true Western Summit of the mountain - this requires a high degree of scrambling experience to reach so please take caution if your going to attempt it.

9. Liathach (1,055m)

Location: Torridon
Distance: 7.5 miles (12 km) round trip
Difficulty: Absolutely brutal

Liathach in Torridon is the real deal. This isn’t just a walk; it’s a full-on adventure. You’ll be scrambling along narrow ridges, and the exposed sections will test your bottle. The ridge walk involves two Munros and some gnarly pinnacles—you’ll need to use your hands a lot. But if you’ve got the grit, the views over the Torridon peaks will blow your mind.

The route starts at the small parking area to the east of Glen Cottage. As with most of Torridon Munro's public transport to the route start points is either fleeting or none existent. This is a good 9 hours of scrambling, steep sections and big exposure so take care if your gunna tackle it!

10. Ben Macdui (1,309m)

Location: Cairngorms National Park
Distance: 11 miles (18 km) round trip
Difficulty: Tough

Last but definitely not least is Ben Macdui, the second-highest mountain in the UK. The route from the Cairngorm Ski Centre takes you up through a lunar-like landscape, with vast, open plateaus and rocky terrain. It’s a fair trek, but it’s more about the endurance than the scrambling. And when you reach the summit, you can practically see the whole of Scotland laid out before you. A cracking day out for sure.

This one starts at the Cairngorm Mountain Car Park, buses are available from Aviemore to Cairngorm Mountain. This route is a good 8 or 9 hours and requires good navigational and winter skills if there's snow on the ground.

A Few Tips for Your Highland Adventures

Be Ready for Anything: Highland weather is bonkers—it can go from sunshine to sleet in minutes. Bring layers, waterproofs, and a decent map.
Gear Up Right: Good boots and a sturdy rucksack are a must. Trust me, you don’t want to be that guy in trainers.
Don’t Go Solo on the Hard Ones: Some of these routes are no joke. If you’re going for the gnarlier hikes, make sure you’re not alone or at least let someone know your plans.

Final Thoughts

The Scottish Highlands aren’t just about ticking off peaks—they’re about soaking up the rugged beauty, challenging yourself, and maybe sharing a dram or two after a day on the hills. Whether you’re new to hiking or a seasoned Munro-bagger, these mountain walks will give you something to write home about. So grab your boots, load up on snacks, and get out there. You won’t regret it!