Visiting Scotland – Hiking Trails Not to Miss

In Scotland, hiking trails offer visitors a chance to truly connect with the history and natural heritage of our country. Across the Highlands, exploring the islands and tracing coastlines, Scotland’s hiking trails will give you a true sense of the country. We’ve put together an overview of some of the most iconic hiking trails in Scotland, each one offering visitors a memorable way to experience a true taste of Scotland.

Scotland hiking trails

Iconic Walks Along Scotland’s Hiking Trails

Step onto a Scottish walking trail and you quickly realise it’s more than just fresh air and exercise. The ground underfoot carries centuries of history, from old drovers’ roads in the Highlands to paths that wind past ruined castles or island harbours. A walk here can take you from sea cliffs alive with seabirds to quiet glens where the only sound is running water — a way of experiencing the country that no guidebook can quite capture.Visitors to Scotland often say walking these ancient routes is the highlight of their trip. Even for the locals, there’s always another trail, and a new corner of Scotland, waiting to be discovered. 

Start/Finish: Glen Nevis Visitor Centre

Distance: 17 km (10.5 miles) there and back

Difficulty: Strenuous (Munro ascent)

Allow: 7-9 hours for the full round trip

Ben Nevis Scotland

Why choose this hiking trail?

No list of Scotland’s hiking trails would be complete without an ascent of Ben Nevis. At 1,345 metres, it’s the highest mountain in the UK and the ultimate munro to bag for walkers. The most popular route follows the Mountain Path from the Glen Nevis visitor centre, climbing steadily through glens and rocky slopes. It’s a strenuous walk, around 16 kilometres there and back, but the summit panorama is like nowhere else — vast Highland ridges, sea lochs, and, on a clear day, the Hebrides.

For seasoned climbers, the Carn Mòr Dearg Arête offers a more challenging ridge traverse, characterised by dramatic and exposed terrain. For most, the Mountain Path is the safer way up.

Best time to hike: Late Spring to Early Autumn (May to September)

Snow and ice often linger on the summit into late spring so Summer offers the safest conditions with longer daylight hours, reducing risk and improving visibility for enjoying the spectacular panorama.Winter ascents should only be attempted by those with mountaineering skills and appropriate equipment.

Stay Overnight

Glen Nevis Caravan & Camping Park — Just a few minutes’ walk from the visitor centre, this site offers motorhome pitches with electric hook-ups, showers, and WiFi.

Start/Finish: Old Man of Storr Car Park 

Distance: ~5 km / 3 miles (loop or out-and-back)

Difficulty: Moderate

Allow: 1.5–2.5 hours

Hiking on Skye

Why hike this trail in Scotland?

Few places in Scotland are photographed as much as the Old Man of Storr — yet the reality is even more atmospheric than the images. This is one of Scotland’s most iconic hikes, famous for its dramatic, jagged rock pinnacles, formed by ancient landslips, rising sharply against the skyline. The Old Man himself is a needle-like tower of stone rising against the sky, with sweeping views over the Sound of Raasay and the Cuillin mountains behind.

The trail on this short but steep hike is immensely rewarding, with views over the Trotternish Ridge, the Sound of Raasay, and the Cuillin Hills. Set off early to experience the sunrise turning the landscape pink and gold. On a misty day there’s a mystical, almost otherworldly atmosphere.

Best time to hike: Spring to Early Autumn (April to October)

Clearer skies in late spring and summer help you enjoy the full views, while early autumn adds a touch of golden colour to the moorland. It can be slippery in winter. Skye’s weather can be unpredictable year-round, but spring and summer provide the best chance of dry, clear days and vibrant landscapes. Autumn colours also add a magical touch, but rainfall tends to increase later in the year.

Stay Overnight

Sligachan Campsite – For a scenic stay this campsite offers campervan hard stands and electric hook ups.

Portree Campsite – Long established, family run campsite close to Portree

Start/Finish: Fairy Pools Car Park, Glen Brittle

Distance: ~4.5 km / 3 miles (out-and-back)

Difficulty: Moderate (some uneven terrain and stream crossings)

Allow: 1.5–2.5 hours

wild swimming scotland Fairy Pools Skye

Why hike it?

If the Old Man of Storr is Skye’s most famous rock formation, this walk to the Fairy Pools takes you to its most famous waters. These crystal-clear cascades tumble down from the Cuillin mountains, forming a chain of pools so vividly turquoise they look almost tropical — until you dip a toe and realise they’re icy cold year-round.

The trail from the Glen Brittle car park crosses moorland with a few stream hops, so waterproof boots help. Along the way, you’ll pass waterfalls that plunge into pools deep enough for wild swimming, though that’s only for the brave.

Best time to hike: Late Spring to Early Autumn (May to September)

Late spring and summer bring drier weather and the best conditions for exploring the pools safely and enjoying the surrounding views. Autumn sees fewer visitors but will be cooler and can be wetter underfoot. Winter months will be colder and wetter and the paths can get muddy and slippery. Many of the tourist facilities on Skye close in the winter time.

Stay Overnight

Glenbrittle Campsite – A short drive down the glen from the car park, right by the beach with incredible views.

Start/Finish: Loch an Eilein Car Park (nr Aviemore)

Distance: ~5.3 km / 3.3 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Allow: 1.5–2 hours, or linger for longer

Why follow this trail?

An accessible circular walk around a forest-ringed loch, passing the ruins of a medieval island castle in the heart of the Cairngorms. Loch an Eilein, near Aviemore, is a loch fringed with ancient pinewoods, with the ruins of a 13th-century castle on an island in its centre. The circular path around the shore is just over five kilometres, flat and well-maintained, making it one of the most accessible and family-friendly walks in the Highlands.

The magic of Loch an Eilein lies in its atmosphere. In the spring, the forest floor is alive with bluebells and wild garlic. In autumn, the pines and birches glow gold, their reflections mirrored in the loch’s mirror-like waters. Red squirrels dart through the branches, and ospreys sometimes circle overhead. 

Best Time of Year: Spring and Autumn

Beautiful in any season and can be hiked all year round, it’s at its best in Spring or Autumn. Spring brings colour from bluebells and mossy greens, whilst Autumn colours make the woodland even more magical. Summer can be a busier time.

Stay Overnight

Rothiemurchus Camp and Caravan Park – Just minutes from the trailhead, nestled in ancient pine woodland.

Dalraddy Holiday Park – A short drive away, with great facilities and access to Aviemore.

Start/Finish: Elie/St Monans

Distance: ~5.5 km / 3.4 miles (one way)

Difficulty: Easy

Allow: 1.5–2 hours (one way)

St. Monans Fife Coastal Path

Why hike this trail?

Not every memorable Scottish walk is about mountains. On the eastern side of Scotland, the Fife Coastal Path reveals another side of Scotland’s heritage: rocky coves sheltering quaint fishing villages, wide, sandy beaches and the cries of seabirds on the wind.

The section between Elie and St Monans is easy walking along golden sand, grassy paths, and rocky outcrops. Along the way, you’ll pass Lady’s Tower, a striking 18th-century folly built as a summer house, and the ruins of salt pans that were once central to Fife’s way of life. The villages themselves are picture postcard-perfect: whitewashed cottages and colourful harbours.

Best time to hike: Spring to Early Autumn (April to September)

Coastal weather is most pleasant in these months, with mild temperatures and less wind. Spring and summer also bring seabird nesting activity and vibrant wildflowers and bright blue skies. Autumn offers beautiful light and quieter trails. Avoid winter due to slippery paths and strong winds that whip along the coast.

Stay Overnight

Bankhead Farm – Camping and Caravanning Club certified site with basic facilities and direct access to the coastal path.

Sauchope Links Park, Crail – Slightly further along the coast but beautifully positioned by the sea with full camper facilities.

Start/Finish: Holyrood Park

Distance: ~4.7 km / 2.9 miles (circular)

Difficulty: Moderate

Allow: 1.5–2 hours

Arthur's Seat, Edinburgh, Scotland in Spring

Why hike it?

One of Scotland’s most unusual hiking trails is right in the heart of its capital city. Arthur’s Seat is an extinct volcano in Holyrood Park, rising to 251 metres.  From its summit, the whole of Edinburgh spreads out below you: Edinburgh castle on its rock, the Firth of Forth beyond and even the Pentland Hills on the horizon.

The circular walk is steep but manageable climb for most walkers, easily reached from central Edinburgh. It’s popular, but go in the early morning for a quieter walk or the evening for spectacular light.  

Best time to hike: Year-round, best in Spring and Summer

Easily reached from the city and not too high, Arthur’s Seat is accessible year-round, though spring and summer bring warmer, clearer days and longer daylight hours. Hike it on a fine Spring day to enjoy the gorse and wildflowers.  Autumn and winter can be windy and chilly but still rewarding if you are suitably dressed for the weather. Visit during Solstice  to take part in pagan celebrations (pre-registration/booking needed with The Beltane Society)

Stay Overnight With Your Campervan

Mortonhall Caravan & Camping Park – Located on the edge of the city with easy bus access into the centre.

Edinburgh Caravan and Motorhome Club Site – Near the Forth estuary with good public transport links.

Start/Finish: at the Three Sisters car park

Distance: Approx. 4 km (2.5 miles)

Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

Allow: 3-4 hours

Why hike it?

Few places capture the drama of the Highlands like Glen Coe, and few walks within it are as evocative as the Lost Valley, or Coire Gabhail. Hidden between the famous Three Sisters peaks, this secluded glen was once used by the MacDonalds to hide stolen cattle.

The walk features some rocky scrambles and a river crossing, and takes around three hours, there and back. It’s not long, but each turn reveals steeper cliffs and a more profound sense of being hidden away. Standing at the head of the valley, surrounded by towering walls of rock, you’ll understand why this is one of Scotland’s most atmospheric short hikes and feel a profound connection with its – often violent – clan history.

Best time to hike: Summer to Early Autumn (June to September)

Late spring offers blooming alpine plants and more stable weather. Early Autumn is stunning, with golden bracken and fewer midges. The trail can be muddy in wet conditions and challenging in winter, so summer offers the safest and most enjoyable experience. 

Stay Overnight:

Red Squirrel Campsite, Glencoe – Very close to the trailhead, has a natural, wilderness feel to it.

Glencoe Camping & Caravanning Club Site – A short drive away with full campervan facilities.

Start/Finish: Bridge of Orchy Station/Kingshouse Hotel, Glencoe

Distance: ~20 km / 12.5 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Allow: 6–7 hours

Why hike it?

For those who want to experience one of Scotland’s long-distance hiking trails, try this stretch along the West Highland Way. The West Highland Way is a world famous walking trail, stretching nearly 100 miles from Milngavie to Fort William and giving walkers a true taste of the Highlands. This is one of its most rewarding sections, running 20 kilometres from Bridge of Orchy across the wild expanse of Rannoch Moor to Kingshouse in Glen Coe. Expect a day of big skies and open moorland, with views of Buachaille Etive Mòr looming as you approach Glencoe. The sense of wilderness is profound — yet at the end you can relax at the historic Kingshouse Hotel for a dram to complete your taste of the Highlands.

Best Time of Year: Late Spring to Early Autumn

May to September offers the clearest weather and best conditions, with fewer midges. Autumn brings golden bracken and crisp air, ideal for taking in the atmosphere.

Stay Overnight 

The nearest campsites with campervan facilities are around Glencoe. You can park for the night with very basic facilities at Bridge of Orchy as part of the Stay the Night Scheme. Please check the scheme rules.

Start/Finish: Car Park near Allt-na-reigh 

Distance: ~10 km / 6 miles

Difficulty: Very difficult – for experienced scramblers only

Allow: 6–8 hours depending on fitness

Why hike it?

Aonach Eagach is known as the narrowest ridge on the British mainland, and this route stretches for around 10 kilometres along Glencoe’s north side. With sheer drops on either side, exposed scrambling, and six to eight hours of serious concentration required, it’s not for the faint-hearted.

For those with the experience and confidence, Aonach Eagach will reward you with immersion into Scotland’s wild, untamed natural landscape. You’ll see Glen Coe’s dramatic peaks laid out beneath you, the valley floor stretching to Loch Leven and the Mamores to the north. The atmosphere is wild and elemental, a reminder of just how raw Scotland’s mountains can be.

Best Time of Year: Late Spring to Early Autumn

Avoid winter conditions when it can be dangerous due to snow and ice. Late spring to early autumn is the ideal time for clear weather and easier scrambling. 

Campervan-Friendly Overnight Stay

Red Squirrel Campsite – With a natural, wilderness feel, this campsite is close to the ridge’s end, surrounded by mountains

Start/Finish: Craigellachie village/Ballindalloch

Distance: ~20 km / 12 miles (one way)

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Allow: 4-5 hours

Why hike it?

If Glencoe gives you insight into Scotland at its most rugged, Speyside reveals the central role played by whisky in Scottish heritage. The Speyside Way traces the River Spey through one of the country’s most famous whisky regions and this section – between Craigellachie and Ballindalloch is an easy path.

The path follows an old railway line beside the river, weaving through woodlands where wildflowers bloom in spring and leaves blaze gold in autumn. You’ll pass some of Scotland’s most famous distilleries en route including Dalmunach and Knockando. This walk is as much about Scotland’s heritage as it is about its scenery so allow time for a stop and a tasting.

Best Time of Year: Spring and Autumn

Spring for blooming wildflowers and wildlife, while autumn offers cooler weather and vibrant foliage colours. Whisky fans may prefer to visit distilleries in Autumn, during the quieter season.

Stay Overnight in your Campervan

Speyside Gardens Caravan Park, Aberlour – Well-kept site with good facilities, close proximity to the town and trail.

Start/Finish: Galmisdale (ferry terminal)

Distance: ~8 km / 5 miles

Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous

Allow: 3–4.5 hours

Why hike it?

The Isle of Eigg is a lesser visited island among the Small Isles and climbing its dramatic peak, An Sgùrr, is an unforgettable and unique adventure.

The walk starts at the ferry terminal in Galmisdale and climbs steadily through moorland and rocky ground. It’s only eight kilometres there and back but the ascent feels steep and you’ll take around three to four hours to reach the top and come back. The summit is worth every step: a volcanic ridge that dominates the island, with panoramic views across the sea to Rum, Skye, and the mainland.

Eigg itself is a small island, with a strong community spirit. It feels remote and unspoiled with beaches like Laig Bay and caves like Massacre Cave, whose name references its dark history centuries ago. With its volcanic geology, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking scenery, Eigg offers a rare opportunity to experience an authentic, off-the-beaten-track Scotland. 

Best Time of Year: Late Spring to Early Autumn

Late spring and summer are ideal for clear, dry weather and an abundance of wildflowers. Autumn also brings great views with the added bonus of fewer visitors.

Overnight Stay

Campervans can’t be brought onto Eigg, but you can base yourself in Arisaig or Mallaig on the mainland and cross over as a foot passenger, staying overnight in simple pods or at the island’s campsite. It’s a reminder that some of the finest Scotland hiking trails require a little extra effort — but reward you with memories that last a lifetime.

Eigg Camping Pods & Campsite – Cosy pods in a lovely setting.

Camusdarach Campsite, Arisaig (mainland) – Beachside campsite near Arisaig. Stay overnight here and catch the ferry to Eigg.

Start/Finish: Inverpolly Nature Reserve Car Park (near Loch Lurgainn)

Distance: ~5 km / 3 miles

Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous

Allow: 3–4 hours

Why hike it?

Stac Pollaidh is one of Scotland’s most iconic mountain views, known for its jagged, almost otherworldly summit. Its jagged ridgeline juts into the sky above Assynt, a region already famous for its dramatic peaks like Suilven and Cul Mor. A well-maintained path winds upwards before breaking into rocky scrambles as you approach the summit ridge. It’s not overly long, taking three to five hours, but it feels adventurous and offers some of the best views in the north-west Highlands. From the top, you’ll see a landscape carved by ancient glaciers — lochs glittering below, mountains rising like islands from a sea of moorland. Hiking Stac Pollaidh you will get a sense of the wildness of Scotland, with its dramatic geology reminding us of how ancient this land is. 

Best Time of Year: Late Spring or Early Autumn

The clear weather in late spring and early autumn means these months are the perfect time for the scramble to the summit. You can enjoy the stunning views in relative peace without so many tourists. The exposed nature of this walk means winter weather is probably best avoided.

Campervan-Friendly Overnight Spots

Shore Campsite – A short drive away, right on the beach with stunning coastal views 

Start/Finish: Bone Caves Car Park (near Inchnadamph)

Distance: ~4 km / 2.5 miles

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Allow: 2 hours, including time to explore the caves

Hiking to the Bone Caves Scotland

Why hike it?

A bit further south in Assynt lies a hike quite different in character: the Bone Caves near Inchnadamph. This short four-kilometre route climbs gently along a glen to a set of caves in a limestone cliff. Archaeologists have discovered the remains of prehistoric animals here — reindeer, lynx, even polar bears — dating back thousands of years.

The walk itself is relatively easy, taking around two hours but the sense of stepping back into deep time makes it a worthwhile hike. The surrounding scenery is dramatic too, with steep crags and a river valley that feels far removed from modern life.

Pair the walk with a stop at Clachtoll Beach for a picnic with sea views, or visit the Assynt Visitor Centre to learn more about the area’s geology and archaeology.

Best Time of Year: Spring and Summer

The mild weather conditions in spring and summer allow for easier access to the caves, making these the ideal seasons for a visit. The path will be dry and wildflowers add colour to the glen.

Stay Overnight

There are no campsites very close to the Bone Caves so plan to push onto another destination after you have completed this walk.

Why go hiking in Scotland?

Scotland hiking trails aren’t just routes on a map — they’re invitations into the heart of the country. From high ridges that test your stamina to gentle coastal paths where the sea air carries the cries of seabirds, each trail shows you a different face of Scotland. Walking in Scotland’s landscape connects you with the country in a way that you can’t experience when driving past – however picturesque the views are as you drive past. Wherever you choose to explore, please follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code: respect wildlife and the environment and leave no trace of your visit.

Hiking in Scotland: What to Bring

If you’re planning on hiking in Scotland, a little preparation will mean you get more out of your experience. The weather can change very quickly – sometimes in minutes. So, pack layers and waterproofs even in summer. In the Highlands, midges are a fact of life from June to August — repellent is essential. 

Hiking in Skye Scotland

Big Sky Campers Campervans for Hire

Scotland

The joy of exploring by campervan is that you are free to weave these ancient hiking trails into your own personal journey through the land. Park up by a loch for lunch, wake up at the foot of a mountain or watch the sun go down from a coastal campsite. Hiring a campervan in Scotland gives you the freedom to follow the weather, linger where you find a cool spot and immerse yourself in the country’s heritage and natural history by following one of Scotland’s hiking trails.


If you are looking for a campervan to hire to explore Scotland please take a look at our VWs. All our campervans for hire come fully equipped with everything you will need for your road trip in Scotland. Everything is included in the price, including extra sets of bedding if requested. 

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