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Best flora and fauna hiking trails in Scotland
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Best flora and fauna hiking trails in Scotland

Want to walk through a rainbow of blooms? These trails are perfect for wildflower viewing, where every step is surrounded by vibrant colors and the sweet scent of nature.

Here are some great trails to explore in Scotland.

Most popular trails

1

Medium

Carnethy Hill - Black Hill and Caerketton Hill from Flotterstone

City of Edinburgh, Scotland · star 4.0 (26) · 15.6 km · Est. 3 hrs 58 min

2

Easy

Broadford Loop

Highland, Scotland · star 4.0 (21) · 7.0 km · Est. 1 hrs 32 min

3

Easy

Glen Nevis and Polldubh Falls

Highland, Scotland · star 0.0 (0) · 12.6 km · Est. 2 hrs 49 min

4

Easy

Ardmore Point near Helensburgh

Argyll and Bute, Scotland · star 0.0 (0) · 3.3 km · Est. 40 min

5

Medium

Eas Mòr and Loch Garbad near Kildonan

North Ayrshire, Scotland · star 0.0 (0) · 4.9 km · Est. 1 hrs 16 min

6

Easy

Devil's Trail - Barr

South Ayrshire, Scotland · star 0.0 (0) · 7.1 km · Est. 1 hrs 45 min

7

Easy

Mossdale Red Kite Circuit - Mossdale

Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland · star 0.0 (0) · 3.9 km · Est. 51 min

8

Easy

Beecraigs and Cockleroy near Linlithgow

West Lothian, Scotland · star 0.0 (0) · 6.8 km · Est. 1 hrs 34 min

9

Medium

Totches Baulk and the Jed - Jedburgh

Scottish Borders, Scotland · star 0.0 (0) · 4.2 km · Est. 1 hrs 4 min

10

Easy

Loch Druidibeag

Western Isles, Scotland · star 0.0 (0) · 10.5 km · Est. 2 hrs 9 min

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Reviews for flora and fauna hiking trails in Scotland

Mary Moore avatar

Carnethy Hill - Black Hill and Caerketton Hill from Flotterstone

Mary Moore · reviewed 3 months ago

star star star star star

Michael Kneeshaw avatar

Broadford Loop

MikeK · reviewed 3 months ago

star star star star star

No reviews available for Glen Nevis and Polldubh Falls.

No reviews available for Ardmore Point near Helensburgh.

No reviews available for Eas Mòr and Loch Garbad near Kildonan.

Frequently asked questions for hiking trails in Scotland

What is the climate like for hiking in Scotland?

Scotland's climate shifts with each season, requiring keen attention for hiking adventures. The mild, potentially wet spring months are invigorating, with blossoming flora and longer daylight hours enhancing the scenic experience. Rainproof gear is essential to counter unpredictable showers. More at https://www.mwis.org.uk/forecasts/scottish.
Summers, typically June to August, offer the most hospitable hiking climate. Though occasionally rainy, the temperatures hover around a comfortable 15°C - 20°C, with up to 18 hours of daylight to fully exploit the trails. Careful monitoring of midge activity is vital for a hassle-free experience. https://www.livebreathescotland.com/midges-in-scotland/
Autumn brings a dazzling display of changing colours, but the weather, much like spring, can be erratic. Temperatures begin to drop, and daylight hours shrink rapidly, restricting hiking time. Winters are challenging with shorter days, snowfall, and icy trails. For the experienced, it presents a unique, exhilarating challenge. Check https://www.mountaineering.scot/. Best to avoid winter unless highly experienced.

Do I need a permit to hike in Scotland?

Unlike certain parts of the world, Scotland boasts the "Right to Roam," making hiking unrestricted and accessible. As such, there are no permits required for general hiking. However, wild camping regulations in places like Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park require adherence. Details at Wild Camping Guidelines.

Is wild camping allowed in Scotland?

In Scotland, wild camping is legal and widely enjoyed by hikers due to the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003. Yet, restrictions apply in certain areas, especially from March to September, like Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. It's crucial to respect the Outdoor Access Code. Explore more at Outdoor Access Code.

Are there mountain rescue services in Scotland?

In case of a hiking emergency in Scotland, contacting the police is paramount as they coordinate with Mountain Rescue teams. Dial 999, ask for Police, then Mountain Rescue. Consider registering with the emergency SMS service for areas with poor signal. Further details at Mountain Rescue Scotland.

Are there dangerous plants in Scotland?

Scotland's rich biodiversity paints the trails with varied flora. Expect heather moorlands in the Highlands, ancient woodlands in Caledonian Pine forests, and bluebell fields in spring. Be wary of certain plants like bracken, which can harbor ticks. For more flora information, refer to https://www.nature.scot/plants-animals-and-fungi/flowering-plants.

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Scotland?

Scotland's wildlife ranges from benign red deer in the Highlands to the notorious midges prevalent in warm, damp conditions. Caution is advised around adders, Scotland's only venomous snake. Observe marine life in coastal regions. Learn more at https://www.wildguidescotland.com/.

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