Scotland’s top five hiking trails have been named by experts. With the cold spell that brought freezing temperatures to much of the country finally over, people will be looking to get out and make the most of the milder conditions.
Whether you are a nature lover or are just keen to clear your head, nothing can top a classic walk in the Scottish countryside. Experts at hiking and camping website AllTrails have put together a list of the five “best trails in Scotland”.
Coming in at number one is the Ben Nevis Mountain Track. Situated near Fort William, the Ben Nevis Mountain Track is a 15.9-kilometre there-and-back trail that is considered to be challenging.
If you have always wanted to climb the UK’s highest mountain, then this year could be the perfect opportunity — though it is only recommended for highly skilled and experienced climbers.
However, the vigorous ascent up to the peak will be rewarded with absolutely breathtaking views out across the surrounding mountains. You can even bring a picnic with you to enjoy as you gaze out over the one-of-a-kind Scottish landscape.
Following behind in second place is a considerably easier walk: the Old Man of Storr Circular on the Isle of Skye. Described as “the most popular hike” on the island by AllTrails, the route is around 5.5 kilometres in length and reaches a height of 357 metres.
According to legend, the Old Man of Storr’s namesake was a giant who resided on the Trotternish Ridge. After he died, his thumb—the ‘Old Man’—is all that remained.
Also on the Isle of Skye is the Fairy Pools, which is the third-best hiking trail in Scotland according to the experts. One of the most popular spots on the island, the Fairy Pools hike should take around just 80 minutes to complete.
Considered “moderately challenging” by the experts, the route is open year-round and “is beautiful to visit anytime”. Some locals believe that mythological selkies are drawn to the Fairy Pools and will transform into their human form at night to bathe beneath the light of a full moon.
Meanwhile, coming in fourth place is Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh. The perfect hike if you live in the Scottish capital, this route takes you up to the top of the extinct volcano that is found in the heart of the city.
Taking around an hour and a half from start to finish, the hike up Arthur’s Seat is approximately 4.3 kilometres in length. At the peak, you will be treated to absolutely magnificent views out across Edinburgh’s skyline.
Elsewhere, the fifth-best hike in Scotland according to AllTrails is the Quiraing Circuit. Also found on the Isle of Skye, this challenging hike is just under seven kilometres in length and reaches a height of 413 metres.
Although the Quiraing Circuit begins relatively easy along a well-defined and popular path, it quickly becomes more loose and treacherous. While the views are stunning, it is only recommended for well-experienced climbers.
See below for the full list of the top five hiking trails in Scotland. Meanwhile, more information and the full top 10 can be found on the AllTrails website.
Top five trails in Scotland
- Ben Nevis Mountain Track
- The Old Man of Storr Circular
- Fairy Pools
- Arthur’s Seat
- The Quiraing Circuit
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