Backpacking in Scotland

Updated 04-01-2021 🖊 Lotte Top

Beautifull sceneries, history and great adventures has brought many people to Scotland for years. The rough landscape makes a perfect companion for hickers that are looking for a challange. A good backpacking adventure starts with good preperation and we will help you with this! Wether you are unsure over which trail to hike, the gear to take with you or need encouragement in general - this page answers lots of question. And if there are still uncertainties don't hesitate to contact us!

Backpacking Trails

Scotland hosts several long distance hiking trails, that differ in difficulty level as well as character. These trails let you explore the best of Scotland's landscape and wildlife. There are lovely official trails that have a great deal of information available about them and often host campings or hostels along the way in case you are in much need of a warm meal and shower. Next to these trails, there are also unofficial trails that offer pathless challanges for more experienced backpackers. We'll take a quick look at a few different trails to give you an idea of what is out there.

• West Higland Way
  
  This trail was the first long distance trail in Scotland and is the most popular route amongst backpackers. It stretches 151 km from the edge of Glasgow all the way up to Fort William that is situated at the foot of Ben Nevis. It is a challenging trail but well waymarked and within the capabilities of most walkers.
• Skye Trail
  
  When you want to discover the beautifull isle of Skye, this trail is perfect. It is a challanging and unofficial route of 128 km with no waymarks and many sections without a path. This route is for those that are experienced and know their way around with a map and compass. When you are able to pull this of, you will feel as if in heaven.
• Southern Upland Way
  
  This trail is the first unofficial coast-to-coast long distance route in Scotland. From Portpatrick on the west coast to cove on the east coast, this route runs 341 km in total. Fortunatily this trail is waymarked along the way, but it can be tricky to navigate the moorland crossings in mist. The difficulty in this trail would lie in the length of some of the stages and the lack of regular facilities.
• Great Glen Way
  
  The Great Glen Way is a 118 km long trail that stretches from coast-to-coast linking Fort William and the regional capital Inverness. It is a good introduction to highland walking and would be a great extension of the already mentioned West Highland Way.
• Cateran Trail
  
  This route offers the beauty of the higlands with a moderate trail. It is well waymarked and circular long distance route of 104 km. This route is well recomended for beginning hickers.

Backpacking Gear

The things you take with you on a backpacking trip is of great imporantance and is trip specific. Things to keep in mind while making your packing list are: how far you plan to hike, the remoteness of the location and the weather forecast. In general, you will need more clothing, gear, food and water when the hike is longer, more remote and / or has a harsh weather forecast. We will provide a general list of what you should bring whilst backpacking, but be sure to also do your own research or ask us for more specific information.

• Hiking Boots
• Backpack
• Tent
• Sleeping Bag and Sleeping Pad
• Stove and Fuel
• Kitchen Supplies
• Plenty of Food
• Bottles and Water Treatment Gear
• Weather-appropriate Clothing
• Emergency and Hygiene Supplies
• Small Repair Kit
• The 10 Essentials

Need More Help?

If you want more information, answers or just want to chat about backpacking be sure to let us know!