6 Best Walks in the Scottish Highlands
There’s no better way to experience the Scottish Highlands than walking.
Walking allows you to slow down and appreciate the little things: a stag grazing on a distant hillside, the sound of a waterfall after rain, or the reflection of towering mountains in a perfectly still loch. Whether you’re looking for a gentle stroll, a family-friendly adventure or a challenging hike, there’s a walk to suit every level.
If you’re staying with Highlands Perfect Stay, all of these walks can be reached as a day trip from Inverness, making them perfect additions to your Highland holiday.
From peaceful woodland trails to unforgettable mountain views, these are the 6 best walks in the Scottish Highlands:
1. Glen Affric River Trail
Glen Affric is often described as one of the most beautiful places in Scotland, and after one visit, you’ll understand why. Home to one of the largest remaining ancient Caledonian pine forests, this National Nature Reserve combines peaceful lochs, rushing rivers and dramatic mountain scenery.
The Glen Affric River Trail follows the River Affric through native woodland before opening up to breathtaking views across Loch Affric. Visit during October when the ancient woodland turns beautiful shades of gold and copper.
How to Get There
From Inverness, follow the A82 towards Drumnadrochit before turning onto the A831 towards Cannich. Continue through Cannich and follow the single-track road into Glen Affric. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. Parking is available at the River Affric and Dog Falls car parks.
Distance and Difficulty
Distance: 6 miles (10 km)
Time: 2.5–3.5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
What to Expect
Expect peaceful forest paths beneath towering Scots pines, wooden bridges crossing clear rivers and magnificent views across Loch Affric. Wildlife lovers should keep an eye out for red squirrels, red deer and, if you’re lucky, golden eagles overhead.
2. Loch an Eilein
Nestled within Rothiemurchus Estate in the Cairngorms National Park, Loch an Eilein is one of Scotland’s most picturesque walks. The highlight is a ruined 13th-century castle sitting on a small island in the middle of the loch, creating one of the Highlands’ most photographed views. Visit early in the morning when the water is often perfectly still, creating beautiful reflections of the castle.
How to Get There
Take the A9 south from Inverness to Aviemore, then follow signs towards Rothiemurchus Estate and Loch an Eilein. The drive takes approximately 50 minutes. There is a pay-and-display car park with toilets.
Distance and Difficulty
Distance: 4 miles (6.5 km)
Time: Around 1.5 hours
Difficulty: Easy
What to Expect
The wide woodland paths are suitable for most visitors and offer beautiful views across the loch throughout the walk. You’ll pass ancient Scots pines, peaceful beaches and plenty of benches for a picnic. Red squirrels and ospreys are regularly spotted here during spring and summer.
3. Fairy Glen Falls
Hidden within the Black Isle, Fairy Glen is a lovely woodland walk leading to a spectacular waterfall cascading into a narrow gorge. It’s one of the easiest walks on this list but still feels wonderfully wild. After your walk, head to Chanonry Point nearby, where you may spot bottlenose dolphins close to the shore.
How to Get There
Cross the Kessock Bridge from Inverness and follow the A832 towards Fortrose and Rosemarkie. Parking is available near the beach and the trailhead is clearly signposted.
Distance and Difficulty
Distance: 2 miles (3 km)
Time: 45–60 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
What to Expect
The trail follows the burn through peaceful woodland, crossing wooden bridges before reaching the impressive waterfall. It’s especially beautiful after rainfall when the water is flowing at its strongest.
4. Meall Fuar Mhonaidh
If you’ve always wanted to climb a Highland hill without taking on one of Scotland’s highest mountains, this is an excellent choice. The summit overlooks Loch Ness and the Great Glen, offering panoramic views in every direction. Choose a clear morning if possible, as cloud can quickly cover the summit.
How to Get There
Drive along the A82 towards Drumnadrochit before turning onto the A831 towards Balnain. Limited roadside parking is available near the start of the trail.
Distance and Difficulty
Distance: 8 miles (13 km)
Time: 4–5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
What to Expect
The climb begins through woodland before opening onto open moorland. As you gain height, Loch Ness gradually comes into view, making every step worthwhile. On clear days, you can see Ben Nevis in the distance.
5. Steall Falls
Hidden within Glen Nevis, Steall Falls plunges over 120 metres into the valley below. The walk itself is just as memorable as the destination, following a narrow path along dramatic cliffs with stunning mountain scenery throughout. Waterproof boots are highly recommended, particularly after rain.
How to Get There
From Inverness, follow the A82 south to Fort William before turning into Glen Nevis. Continue to the Upper Glen Nevis car park. Allow approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes from Inverness.
Distance and Difficulty
Distance: 2.5 miles (4 km)
Time: Around 2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
What to Expect
Expect dramatic mountain scenery, rivers, waterfalls and the famous wire rope bridge crossing the River Nevis. The final view of Steall Falls is simply breathtaking.
6. The Old Man of Storr
Although technically on the Isle of Skye, this is one of Scotland’s most famous walks and well worth including if you’re exploring the west Highlands.
The towering rock pinnacle has become one of Scotland’s most recognisable landmarks.
If you’re visiting Skye for the day, combine this walk with Kilt Rock and the Quiraing for an unforgettable road trip.
How to Get There
Drive from Inverness via the A82 to Kyle of Lochalsh before crossing the Skye Bridge and following the A855 north. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes. A large pay-and-display car park is located at the trailhead.
Distance and Difficulty
Distance: 2.7 miles (4.3 km)
Time: 2–3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
What to Expect
The climb is steep but well maintained. As you gain height, you’ll enjoy spectacular views over the Sound of Raasay before reaching the dramatic rock formations. Early mornings offer the best chance of avoiding crowds.
Before You Set Off
The weather in the Highlands can change quickly, even in the middle of summer. Before heading out, we recommend:
- Wearing sturdy walking boots with good grip.
- Packing waterproof clothing and extra layers.
- Bringing plenty of water and snacks.
- Downloading offline maps, as mobile signal can be limited.
- Checking the weather forecast before setting off.
- Following the Scottish Outdoor Access Code and leaving no trace.
Stay Close to the Best Walks in the Scottish Highlands
Whether you’re planning a relaxing woodland stroll or ticking off your first Munro, these walks showcase the incredible variety of landscapes the Scottish Highlands have to offer.
At Highlands Perfect Stay, our self-catering properties provide a comfortable base for exploring the region at your own pace. After a day on the trails, you’ll have somewhere warm to return to, put the kettle on and start planning tomorrow’s adventure.
What is the Best Walk in the Scottish Highlands?
Glen Affric consistently ranks among Scotland’s finest walks thanks to its combination of forest, rivers and mountain scenery.
When is the Best Time for Walking?
May, June and September generally provide comfortable temperatures and beautiful landscapes. Winter walking requires additional preparation and experience.
Can I Bring My Dog?
Many Highland walks are dog-friendly. Always keep dogs under close control, particularly around sheep and during lambing season.
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