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Best river hikes in Highland
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Best river hikes in Highland

Go with the flow on these riverside adventures! From gentle streams to powerful rapids, these hikes offer constant companionship with the sound of rushing water.

Here are some great hikes to explore in Highland.

Most popular hikes


Reviews for river hikes in Highland

Stephen overton  avatar

East Highland Way

Another walk out · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Completed this trail at the end of August . Even know this is an easy to moderate trail with not a lot of elevation. This trail is quite remote and depends on how long you plan , you will need to pack out food for 4-6 days and your tent . It’s a great trail and not very popular, I found it just as good as the WHW even better.


Hinai Proudfoot avatar

Affric Kintail Way

hinaihikesnbikes · reviewed over 5 years ago

star star star star star

I did the trail over three days it was hard work, the section between Corrimony and Cannich is being upgraded so soon you won’t have to walk that section in the road! Great views really gets better the further on you get.


Andrew Bhamra avatar

Cape Wrath Way West

Andrew Bhamra · reviewed over 2 years ago

star star star star star

Great trail though the highlands of Scotland. Hard walking through bogs but amazing and rewarding views.


Paul Phibben avatar

East Highland Trail

Paul Phibben · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

This route is surprisingly good, for one so little used. To describe it accurately, it can be broken down into two parts... Inverness to after the Lairig Gru, which is quite a challenging section, with miles of rough under foot undulating grouse moors, busy road walking and of course the Gru itself, which is miles of boulder fields etc. The second section on to Blair Atholl is easy almost flat riverside tracks for around 30 miles. Be aware, overall this is NOT for novice walkers!! If you want a quiet walk, this is the one. we didnt see anyone before Aviemore!! 👍😁


Shawn Davitt  avatar

Fort William to Morvich via Cape Wrath Trail

Shawn · reviewed almost 3 years ago

star star star star star


Frequently asked questions for hikes in Highland

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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