Highland Highways: Scotland’s Long-Distance Trails
Estimated Reading Time: 17 minutes Last updated on 8th December 2024
Scotland’s long-distance trails traverse some of Britain’s most dramatic landscapes, from the remote Highlands to the pastoral Borders. These routes penetrate deep into the heart of the country’s wild places, crossing windswept moors, skirting dark lochs, and winding through glacier-carved glens. Many trails follow historic pathways once used by cattle drovers, monks, and clan chiefs, while others trace more recent stories of industrial heritage and conservation. Whether climbing into the Cairngorms or following the West Highland Way, these paths offer hikers an authentic experience of Scotland’s legendary wilderness and rich cultural heritage.
The Affric Kintail Way is a 44-mile (71 km) long-distance trail in Scotland, stretching from Drumnadrochit on Loch Ness to Morvich in Kintail. Opened in 2015, this challenging yet rewarding journey through the Scottish Highlands offers diverse landscapes, including ancient Caledonian pinewoods, remote lochs and mountain scenery. With a total ascent of over 6,000 feet (1,829 m) and best visited from May to October, this moderate to challenging trail boasts highlights such as Glen Affric National Nature Reserve, Alltbeithe Youth Hostel and views of the Five Sisters of Kintail. The terrain varies from forest tracks to narrow mountain paths, making it suitable for experienced walkers with map reading skills. Connecting to other trails like the Great Glen Way and Cape Wrath Trail, this adventure offers a unique experience of Scotland’s rugged beauty.
The Annandale Way is a challenging, 55-mile (90 km) long-distance walking route in Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland. Spanning from Moffat to Newbiebarns on the Solway Firth, this 4-5 day journey follows the River Annan from its source near Devil’s Beef Tub to the Irish Sea. Established in 2009, the route boasts diverse highlights such as upland and lowland walking, pristine waters teeming with wildlife, red sandstone buildings, ruined castles and breathtaking views from Chalk Rig Edge. The trail branches out into two routes near Moffat: Lochmaben (more strenuous) and Lockerbie (easier). Both paths reunite before continuing to Annan. Well-signposted with white blazes for the main trail and yellow for loop trails, accommodation is available in towns along the route, while wild camping is allowed responsibly. Public transport options provide access and return trips.
The Ayrshire Coastal Path is a 100-mile (160 km) long-distance trail in Scotland, stretching from Glenapp to Skelmorlie along the Ayrshire coast. Established in 2008 by the Rotary Club of Ayr, this trail offers diverse landscapes and stunning views of the Isle of Arran and Ailsa Craig for hikers. The path is divided into 12 stages, with its longest stretch extending 15.25 km between Ayr and Troon. The southern half offers more remote, rural terrains with challenging sections, while the northern half features urban coastal scenery. Well-connected to public transport and accommodation is available in towns along the route. Hikers need navigation skills, especially in open moorland areas, and an official guidebook for detailed information and maps is recommended. This path connects with other long-distance trails like the Clyde Coastal Path and Mull of Galloway Trail. The best time to walk this trail is May to October.
The Borders Abbeys Way is a captivating 68-mile (109 km) circular walking trail located in the Scottish Borders region of Scotland. Suitable for most walkers, this moderate difficulty trail typically takes between 4 and 7 days to complete and can be explored from April to October. The trail links four historic abbeys: Melrose, Dryburgh, Kelso and Jedburgh, as well as picturesque Border towns. Walkers will enjoy diverse landscapes including pastoral countryside, forest tracks and scenic riverside paths along the Tweed and Teviot rivers. Highlights include stunning views of the Cheviot Hills. The trail is well-marked with white blazes and passes through five main towns, each offering accommodation and amenities for weary travellers. The route is easily accessible via public transport, with multiple baggage transfer services and guidebooks available from various organisations. Offering historical interest, natural beauty and relatively easy walking, the Borders Abbeys Way is an excellent choice for explorers seeking to discover the Scottish Borders region.
The Cape Wrath Trail is an unmarked, 230-mile (370 km) long-distance hiking route stretching from Fort William to the most north-westerly point of mainland Britain. This challenging journey through Scotland’s remote Scottish Highlands typically takes 2 to 3 weeks for experienced backpackers and boasts diverse landscapes, including glens, mountains, lochs and coastal areas, as well as sights such as Glenfinnan monument, Falls of Glomach and Sandwood Bay. With advanced navigation skills required due to the lack of waymarking, hikers encounter river crossings, limited resupply points and facilities that necessitate carrying camping gear and supplies. The unparalleled wilderness experience and stunning scenery attracts hikers worldwide seeking a true backpacking challenge.
The Cateran Trail is a circular, 64-mile (103 km) long-distance walking route through Perthshire and Angus in central Scotland. With moderate difficulty and an estimated duration of 4 to 5 days, this trail features varied terrain including farmland, forests and moors. Key attractions include scenic glens such as Strathardle, Glenshee and Glen Isla; picturesque towns and villages like Blairgowrie, Bridge of Cally, Kirkmichael, Spittal of Glenshee and Alyth; An Lairig mountain pass (highest point); and views of the Cairngorms National Park. Well-marked throughout, it is suitable for a range of abilities and offers accommodation and amenities in towns along the route. The trail can be started at any point, but typically begins and ends in Blairgowrie. Connecting to other trails like the Cateran Mini-trail, it provides natural beauty, historical interest and Highland culture, making it a popular choice for hikers seeking to explore this part of Scotland.
The Deeside Way is a 41-mile (66 km) long-distance walking and cycling trail in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, following the Old Royal Deeside Railway route from Aberdeen to Ballater within the Cairngorms National Park. This mostly off-road trail offers an easy to moderate experience suitable for walkers, cyclists and horse riders. The 4 sections cover Drumoak (10.6 miles/17 km), Banchory (7 miles/11 km), Aboyne (13 miles/21 km) and Ballater (11 miles/17.7 km). Highlights include parts of the National Cycle Network Route 195, views of the River Dee and Cairngorm Mountains, historic areas like Robert the Bruce’s hunting estate, ancient drove roads and opportunities to explore points of interest such as the Balmoral Castle area. The best time to visit extend from late spring to early autumn, with a preferred bike being a gravel or mountain bike for later sections. Facilities are available in towns along the route, while some temporary closures may occur due to fallen trees or maintenance.
The East Highland Way, established in 2010 by Kevin Langan, is an unofficial 82-mile (134 km) long-distance hiking route linking Fort William and Aviemore. With some challenging sections, this moderate trail takes hikers through diverse landscapes, passing near iconic landmarks like Ben Nevis, Creag Meagaidh and the Cairngorms. The route boasts multiple historical sites such as the Commando Memorial, Highbridge (Jacobite Rising site) and Ruthven Barracks. Hikers can enjoy views of dramatic mountain ranges while traversing forest trails, lochs and wilderness areas. With minimal waymarking, a guidebook or map is essential. Limited accommodation is available in remote sections, so planning ahead is crucial. The best season for hiking is late spring, summer, or early fall. Connecting to the West Highland Way and Speyside Way, this quieter trail offers a unique journey through the Scottish Highlands.
The Great Glen Way is a popular long-distance walking and cycling trail stretching from Fort William to Inverness in Scotland, encompassing approximately 118 to 127 km (75 to 79 miles). Established in 2002, this four to seven-day journey follows the major geological fault line through forests, canal towpaths and minor roads. Highlights include passing by lochs Loch Lochy, Oich and Ness, as well as sections of the historic Caledonian Canal. The route offers mostly moderate terrain, with optional high-level routes for more dramatic views. Potential wildlife sightings include red squirrels, buzzards, ospreys and deer. This trail provides a gentler introduction to Highland hiking while immersing you in spectacular scenery.
The Hebridean Way is a long-distance walking and cycling route traversing through Scotland’s Outer Hebrides, offering an epic journey across ten islands with stunning landscapes including turquoise seascapes, white sandy beaches, flower-rich grasslands, peat moorlands, sparkling lochs and dramatic mountain landscapes. The walking route spans 156 miles (252 km) over approximately 10 to 14 days, with a starting point on Vatersay island and ending in Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis. For cyclists, the 185-mile (297 km) journey crosses the same ten islands, incorporating six causeways and two ferry journeys. The best time to embark on this unparalleled journey through remote and beautiful island landscapes is between May and October. Due to changeable weather conditions, it is recommended to carry GPS, Ordnance Survey maps and a compass. Travelling south to north is advisable due to prevailing winds.
The Arran Coastal Way is a stunning 107 km (66 miles) long-distance trail encircling Scotland’s Isle of Arran, established in 2003 and recognised as one of Scotland’s Great Trails. This moderate to difficult route offers hikers diverse landscapes including coastal paths, forest trails, sandy beaches and rocky shores, rich history through significant landmarks like Brodick Castle and Lochranza Castle, vibrant wildlife opportunities with otters, seals, seabirds, eagles and dolphins and a cultural experience in twelve picturesque villages known for local produce. The trail is typically divided into seven stages from Brodick to Whiting Bay with varying difficulty levels, suitable for completion within 5 to 8 days. The best time to walk is April to October, and the well-marked route provides accommodation options. Ferry access makes it convenient for outdoor enthusiasts to explore.
The John Buchan Way is a scenic 13-mile (21 km) long-distance walking route connecting Peebles and Broughton in the Scottish Borders, named after writer and diplomat John Buchan. Established in spring 2003, this trail offers an approximately 800 metres (2,625 feet) elevation gain for strong walkers to complete in one day or split, passing through varied landscapes including hill tracks, Cademuir Hill, Glensax, Stobo Kirk, Easton Burn and remote areas like Stobo Hopehead. Nearby attractions include Stobo Kirk, Forts on Cademuir Hill, Neidpath Castle, Broughton Gallery and Dawyck Botanic Garden. The trail provides a mix of beautiful Scottish views and historical significance for hikers exploring Tweeddale countryside.
The John Muir Way is a long-distance walking and cycling route in southern Scotland, stretching for approximately 215 kilometres (130 miles) from Helensburgh to Dunbar. Opened in 2014, the trail offers a diverse experience with scenic coastlines, woodlands, rolling farmland, urban areas and historical landmarks like Roman forts and the Antonine Wall. The route is named after the Scottish-American conservationist John Muir, who was born in Dunbar, and takes 9 to 11 days to complete on foot or 4 to 5 days by bicycle. With varying terrain from easy to moderate, including some sections unsuitable for road bikes, the trail features a mix of urban areas, natural landscapes and cultural connections to Muir’s life and work. The John Muir Way is well-marked with signs and waymarkers, making it easily accessible along its ten sections from Helensburgh to Edinburgh and further to North Berwick. Accommodation options are available throughout the route, including hotels, B&B’s and campsites, with good public transport connections for easy access to different parts of the trail.
The Kintyre Way is a 100-mile (161 km) long-distance walking trail along Scotland’s Kintyre Peninsula in Argyll and Bute. Suitable for experienced hikers, this scenic route offers diverse landscapes including rugged hills, tranquil glens and stunning coastal views of the Firth of Clyde and Atlantic Ocean. Notable sights include Tarbert Castle, Skipness Castle, Mull of Kintyre, Saddell Abbey and abundant wildlife such as seals, otters, golden eagles and seabirds. Divided into seven manageable stages, the trail offers a mix of easy and challenging terrain, with accommodation options ranging from guesthouses to hotels and campsites. Hikers should prepare for remote stretches with limited mobile phone coverage and carry sufficient supplies. The Kintyre Way provides an immersive experience of Scotland’s natural beauty and rich history.
The Loch Lomond & Cowal Way is a captivating 57-mile (92 km) long-distance walking trail spanning Scotland’s Cowal Peninsula. Starting at Portavadie on Loch Fyne, this diverse route offers a mix of coastal paths, forest tracks, glens and hills for all walkers, regardless of their experience level. Highlights include passing through picturesque villages like Tighnabruaich, Glendaruel, Strachur, Lochgoilhead and Arrochar; scenic attractions such as Sruth Ban Falls and climbing Ben Arthur (The Cobbler) for breathtaking views; and abundant wildlife sightings of seals, red squirrels, golden eagles and red deer. The route is well-marked with timber waymarkers and signs, and the ideal months to walk are April to June and September to October. A variety of accommodation options are available along the trail, including B&B’s, hotels, campsites and self-catering options, making it easily accessible from central Scotland via public transport.
The Rob Roy Way, a renowned long-distance walking trail in Scotland, encompasses around 79 miles (127 km) from Drymen to Pitlochry. Named after the famous Scottish outlaw Rob Roy MacGregor, this journey retraces his paths as a cattle drover and soldier. Covering various terrains including forest tracks, cycleways, minor roads and moorland paths, the trail traverses Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park for scenic views of lochs, hills and forests. The route is well-marked with distinctive signs for easy navigation. Ideally completed in 6 to 9 days, highlights include starting point Drymen near Loch Lomond, charming villages like Aberfoyle and Callander, historic locations such as Killin and picturesque Aberfeldy with its famous Dewar’s Distillery and Birks of Aberfeldy.
The Scottish National Trail is an arduous yet breathtaking long-distance hiking route spanning approximately 864 kilometres (536 miles) from Kirk Yetholm in the Scottish Borders to Cape Wrath, northwestern Scotland. With a duration of around 5 to 7 weeks, this trail caters to experienced hikers seeking adventure and solitude through diverse landscapes. The route combines several established trails such as St Cuthbert’s Way, Southern Upland Way, Forth and Clyde Canal Pathway, West Highland Way, Rob Roy Way and Cape Wrath Trail. Hikers will encounter various terrains, from easy to difficult, with the final stages offering the greatest challenge due to its wild landscapes and lack of established paths. The trail is not uniformly marked, so hikers must be proficient in map reading and navigation. Accommodation options include wild camping, bothies (unheated shelters) and hostels; however, resupply points can be scarce in remote areas. Late spring to early autumn (April to October) is recommended for favourable weather conditions. The Scottish National Trail provides a stimulating hiking experience that showcases some of Scotland’s most beautiful and rugged landscapes.
The Southern Upland Way is Scotland’s first coast-to-coast long-distance walking trail, stretching 214 miles (344 km) from Portpatrick on the southwest coast to Cockburnspath on the east coast. Established in 1984, this challenging route offers diverse landscapes and experiences, including coastal cliffs of the Rhins of Galloway, Galloway Forest Park (Dark Sky Park), Lowther Hills, Scottish Borders, rolling farmland, remote mountains and heather-clad moorlands. Notable features include Scotland’s highest village, Wanlockhead, Ancient standing stones, Traquair House, reportedly the oldest inhabited house in Scotland, Abbotsford House, home of Sir Walter Scott, Melrose Abbey, a challenging terrain with some very long and demanding stretches in exposed uplands, the best months to walk are April and May, and accommodation options include B&B’s, inns, bothies and wild camping. The route can be split into shorter sections for less experienced walkers, and public transport is available to break the journey into manageable segments. The Southern Upland Way offers a unique adventure through a remote and dramatic landscape, providing walkers with a true sense of solitude and connection to nature.
The Speyside Way is a renowned long-distance walking trail in Scotland, extending approximately 66 miles (105 km) from Buckie on the Moray Firth to Aviemore in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park. This route boasts scenic beauty, a rich whisky heritage and diverse landscapes including the River Spey, ancient pine forests, moorlands and majestic mountains. Ideal for walkers of varying experience levels, it consists of five sections with different terrains: coastal views to riverbank paths, gentle hills to steeper sections. The trail passes through historic villages like Craigellachie and Ballindalloch while offering opportunities to visit renowned whisky distilleries such as Glenlivet and Aberlour. Walkers can enjoy this unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage and scenic views from late spring through early autumn (April to October). Accommodation options are available along the route, including B&B’s, hotels, hostels and campsites, with wild camping permitted under the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
St. Cuthbert’s Way, a long-distance walking trail in Scotland and Northumberland, spans approximately 100 kilometres (62 miles) from Melrose to Holy Island (Lindisfarne). Established in 1996, this historical route follows the path of St. Cuthbert, an early Scottish Christian figure. The trail is generally easy to moderate in difficulty, with some sections requiring careful navigation. Walkers can expect diverse landscapes including river valleys, woodlands and coastal views, as well as opportunities for wildlife spotting. Highlights include connecting sites associated with St. Cuthbert, such as Melrose Abbey and St Cuthbert’s Cave. The trail is well-marked, but navigation skills are essential during inclement weather. It is recommended to walk between late spring and early autumn (April to October) for optimal conditions. A variety of accommodation options are available along the route. This unique blend of natural beauty and historical exploration offers an adventurous and culturally enriching experience.
The Magnificent 11 is an 11-mile circular walk on Glasgow’s Southside, connecting seven varied green spaces, including Local Nature Reserves and a Site of Special Scientific Interest. The walk is divided into four parts, each easily accessible by public transport, but can also be enjoyed collectively. Part 1 traverses riverbanks and woodland from Linn Park to King’s Park, while Part 2 continues through newly planted and mature woods to Castlemilk Park. Part 3 offers steep climbs with stunning views from Cathkin Braes and navigates through Fernbrae Meadows to Carmunnock. Finally, Part 4 meanders through fields and woodlands, featuring the Cart and Kittoch Valleys’ rich biodiversity, returning to Linn Park. Each section showcases Glasgow’s natural beauty, with prominent historic features and cultural landmarks along the way, celebrating the city’s reputation as ‘The Dear Green Place’. Waymarkers guide walkers through the scenic route, which benefits from community efforts and partnerships to maintain and enhance these treasured spaces.
The Three Lochs Way is a 54 km (34 mile) long-distance walking trail in Scotland, linking communities around Loch Lomond, Gare Loch and Loch Long. Recognised as one of Scotland’s Great Trails, it offers scenic views, historical sites, natural attractions and engineering marvels. This moderate-level trail, with an elevation gain of approximately 1,500 metres (4,921 feet), starts at Balloch and ends at Inveruglas. Highlights include Loch views, Arrochar Alps, Helensburgh architecture, Glen Loin wildlife and the Sloy Hydro-Electric Power Station. The route is divided into sections: Balloch to Helensburgh (introduction), Helensburgh to Arrochar (dramatic landscapes) and Arrochar to Inveruglas (final stretch). Well-marked with signs, the best time to walk is late spring through early autumn. Accommodation options are available along the route, and it’s accessible by public transport. Explore Scotland’s beautiful landscapes and rich history on this fantastic trail.
The West Highland Way, Scotland’s first official long-distance walking trail, extends for approximately 154 km (96 miles) from Milngavie near Glasgow to Fort William in the Scottish Highlands. Established on October 6, 1980, it draws around 120,000 visitors yearly, with about 36,000 completing the entire route. The trail generates an estimated £5.5 million for the local economy annually. It offers a diverse journey through landscapes including rolling farmland, rocky shores of Loch Lomond, scenic mountain passes, Rannoch Moor, Glen Coe valley and concluding at the base of Ben Nevis. The trail was inspired by Tom Hunter, an ex-RAF serviceman from Glasgow, who aimed to preserve the Scottish countryside. Geographer Fiona Rose played a crucial role in surveying the route on foot over a year during the early 1970s. Key features include the highest point at Devil’s Staircase (548 m/1,800 ft), a total elevation gain of 3,155 metres (10,351 ft) and a moderate difficulty level with a typical completion time of one week. The West Highland Way was co-designated as part of the International Appalachian Trail in 2010, enhancing its international recognition.
