Mountains in Scotland: a guide

Scotland conjures images of majestic mountains, brooding lochs and a vast, untouched wilderness.

Driving through the glens and mountain roads is an experience in itself, with dramatic, breathtaking scenery around every turn. The beautiful mix of powerful rivers, cascading waterfalls and stunning lochs bordered by high mountains offers an unparalleled experience. Travelling through Scotland can make you feel quite small, but in a good way.

Photo by John Baxter

A trip to Scotland is a call to adventure, and there's no better way to answer that call than by lacing up your boots and hitting the trails. Scotland’s distinct regions offer a variety of incredible hiking experiences, with a unique challenge every time.

Here's our guide of mountains in Scotland.

1. Ben Nevis, Lochaber, Scottish Highlands

Photo by Tracey Cormac

When you think of mountains in Scotland, Ben Nevis is usually the first to spring to mind. Located just a few miles from Fort William, 'The Ben' stands proudly at 1,345m (4,412ft), making it the highest mountain in the UK and a major part of the famous Three Peaks Challenge.

While the 'Mountain Track' (or tourist path) is the most popular route, the ascent is a serious undertaking. Its famously changeable weather and length make it a challenge, but the effort is well worth it. If the weather permits, the panoramic views from the summit are truly breathtaking. The region around Ben Nevis and Fort William is a hub for outdoor activities, including world-class mountain biking, climbing and skiing in the winter months.

• Starting Point: The Ben Nevis Visitor Centre in Glen Nevis, which leads to the Achintee Path.

Stay at: Bunree Club Campsite - 11 miles away

2. The Cairngorms, Scottish Highlands

Photo by Shelley Foreman

The Cairngorms National Park is home to a magnificent cluster of high peaks, offering a completely different hiking experience in a sub-Arctic ecosystem.

• Ben Macdui stands as the highest at 1,309m (4,295ft), the second-highest mountain in the UK.
• Cairn Gorm at 1,244m (4,081ft) is another major peak, and the area as a whole boasts over 50 Munros to choose from.

This vast, high-level plateau hosts about a quarter of the UK's most rare and endangered species and is famously home to the UK's only herd of free-roaming Reindeer, introduced in 1952. Besides the many Munros, the park offers stunning lower-level trails, mountain biking and excellent wildlife watching.

• Starting Point: The most popular starting point is from the Cairngorm Mountain Ski Centre, which also offers a mountain railway (funicular) for those who wish to reach a high vantage point without the full ascent.

Stay at: Culloden Moor Club Campsite - 42 miles away

3. Glencoe, Lochaber, Scottish Highlands

Photo by Gaye Kenny

Glencoe is arguably the most atmospheric and visually dramatic glen in Scotland. It boasts a long list of Munros ranging from strenuous, technical hikes to easier valley trails, ensuring options for all abilities.

• Buachaille Etive Mòr is the glen's showstopper, standing at 1,021.4m (3,351ft). It's one of the most well-known and photographed mountains in Scotland, rising as a near-perfect pyramid. The views after the tough hike and scramble to the top are an incredible reward.
• Starting Point: You can park in the large but often busy layby at Altnafead to start the classic route up Buachaille Etive Mòr.

Stay at: Bunree Club Campsite - 16 miles away or Maragowen Club Campsite - 40 miles away

4. The Isle of Skye, Inner Hebrides

Member photo by Pamela Walker

The Isle of Skye is a place of absolute beauty. It's a magical destination offering incredible hiking and climbing opportunities amidst a surreal landscape.

If you're looking for a true climbing challenge, the Black Cuillin within the jagged peaks of the Cuillin range is the ultimate prize. The highest point is Sgùrr Alasdair at 992m (3,255ft). This range involves serious scrambling and is a mountaineering challenge that often requires ropes and expertise.

However, Skye has quite a few easier hiking trails to choose from, such as the famous Quiraing or the Old Man of Storr, that allow you to take in the island's unique geology without technical climbing.

• Starting Point: Varies widely depending on the chosen hike, but trails often start near Sligachan or Glenbrittle for the Cuillins, or on the Trotternish Peninsula for the more iconic landmarks.

Stay at: Morvich Club Campsite (The campsite is located on the mainland, close to the Skye Bridge, making it an excellent base for exploring the island).

Member photo by Tom Lloyd

Safety first: essential hiking preparation

While the scenery is jaw-dropping, the Scottish mountains demand preparation and respect. The weather can change hour by hour, so it's crucial to plan your hikes, especially up the higher mountains.

• Be prepared: it may be t-shirt and shorts weather at the base, but the peak may have snow, fog, or freezing winds. Always pack layers and high-quality waterproof and windproof gear.
• Navigate smartly: take appropriate gear including a detailed map and a compass (and know how to use them), or a reliable GPS device/app.
• Emergency prep: check the weather forecast before setting out and make sure someone knows your route and expected return time.
• Fuel up: bring plenty of water and snacks!