Scotland has some of the greatest hill walking country in the world: accessible, yet with a true wilderness flavour.
From the height of Ben Nevis, to the smaller but perfectly formed Trossachs, and from the isolated peaks of the far north to the huge elevated mass of the Cairngorms, there is immense variety of both scenery and challenge, suitable for everyone from family groups on simple excursions to experienced mountaineers pitting themselves against some of the most severe conditions in the world.
The Clova hills. Photo by Neil Reid.
Taking a progressive approach to hill walking is the way to build up
your fitness, stamina, experience and confidence. Set realistic initial
goals and achieve them. In this section you can read about the opportunities, the equipment and skills you need and some ideas of where to start your lifetime of hill walking.
The Munros and Corbetts are lists of Scottish mountains over 3000ft and 2500ft respectively, and 'ticking' them is a great way to get around Scotland and into the midst of some of the finest scenery in the world. Find out more about the pastime of 'Munro bagging'.
The highest in the British Isles, Ben Nevis is the mountain everybody wants to do. But it's not to be undertaken lightly. Our page on 'The Ben' tells you what you need to know in terms of clothing and equipment, skills, and navigation.
For many it's not about the height, but the travelling. Scotland has a
number of superb long distance footpaths, both waymarked and wild, from
the best-known - the West Highland Way - to lesser-known gems like the
Cateran Trail. We have a list of LDPs with links for more information.
Some like to walk alone or with friends, but for many the ideal way to ensure good company, learn new skills and back-up is to join a walking or mountaineering club.
Over 150 hill walking, climbing and mountaineering clubs hold membership of Mountaineering Scotland. Why not find out if there is one near you?
Even in summer the Scottish mountains can be a challenging
environment. Check out our section on safety and skills to learn more
about the equipment you'll need and the skills and knowledge you should
acquire to be safe and self-sufficient in the mountains.
Sofa 2 Summit is a free online program to help you get the most out of hiking in the hills this spring and summer.
If you want to start hiking in Scotland's hills and mountains, or need a refresher in some key skills after a winter break from hill walking, Sofa 2 Summit will take you through the basics and help you get where you want to go.
Register now to get started and let us help you get from sofa to summit!
An essential part of planning for any trip to the mountains is to check the weather forecast. We have several options here.
Many people prefer to seek the help of a professional mountaineer. Here are some issues to consider.
One way of improving your confidence in the mountains is through Mountaineering Scotland's skills courses.
Scotland has great access rights - but also responsibilities. Find out more about both.
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ClimbScotland is a registered trademark of the Mountaineering Council of Scotland Limited
Mountaineering Scotland is a registered trademark of the Mountaineering Council of Scotland Limited
