Exploring Scotland’s Wildest Hiking Destinations
From the stunning Lochside trails of Kinloch Rannoch to the unexplored wilderness of Fisherfield Forest, Scotland boasts some of the most breathtaking and challenging hiking routes in the world. Here are some of the wildest places to hike in Scotland, offering hikers a unique blend of dramatic landscapes, pristine natural beauty, and the thrill of remoteness.
Hidden Gem: Kinloch Rannoch
Located in the heart of Perthshire, Kinloch Rannoch is a hidden gem among Scotland’s hiking destinations. Navigating the area's captivating blend of Lochside trails and dense woodlands, hikers can enjoy the dramatic backdrop of surrounding mountains, including the imposing Schiehallion. This is a place where nature reigns supreme, offering towering peaks and lush greenery that combine to create a truly awe-inspiring landscape.
Remote Paradise: Fisherfield Forest
Fisherfield Forest, located in Wester Ross, is one of the most remote and expansive regions in Scotland. This wild area is characterized by vast mountain ranges and a unique atmosphere that sets it apart from the rest of the Highlands. The most notable feature is A Mhaighdean, a challenging walk that can be completed in 12-18 hours of rigorous trekking. However, it's better to take a multi-day approach, camping or using bothies at Carnmore and Shenevall, and exploring the surrounding peaks.
The weather in Fisherfield Forest can be very unpredictable, with strong winds, heavy rainfall, and poor visibility. Hikers should be well-prepared with appropriate gear and supplies. Additionally, be aware of uncrossable rivers during particularly high water conditions, such as during a flood (spate). Despite these challenges, Fisherfield Forest offers some of the most memorable and unparalleled hiking experiences, especially during the summer months when the sun shines.
The Cape Wrath Trail
The Cape Wrath Trail is a remarkable journey that spans the length of Scotland's northern coast, from Fort William to Cape Wrath. This trail passes through some of the wildest and most remote parts of the Highlands, offering a unique backpacking experience. The trail passes through Arisaig, Knoydart, and Monar and Mullardoch, ultimately arriving at the rugged and isolated Torridon region. The entire journey can be completed in about 3 weeks, with hikers exploring the vast wilderness of Letterewe, Inverpolly, and Sutherland.
Similar to Fisherfield Forest, the weather on the Cape Wrath Trail is often harsh, with unpredictable weather conditions and challenging terrain. However, the experience is incredibly rewarding, with stunning landscapes and a profound sense of solitude. Unlike the more popular trails in the Alpine regions, the Cape Wrath Trail offers a more rugged and untraversed hiking experience in the truest sense of the word.
The Cairngorms
The Cairngorms, located between the River Spey and the River Dee, offer yet another extraordinary hiking destination. These mountains are often overlooked in favor of more famous ranges like the Tatra or the Alps, but they provide a unique and challenging hiking experience. The area is relatively unpopulated, with vast stretches of wilderness and towering peaks.
In addition to the Cairngorms, the mountains of Harris in the Outer Hebrides also offer a wild hiking experience. This remote location provides a unique and intimate connection with nature, away from the busy and crowded trails of more well-known destinations.
In Conclusion
Scotland is a hiker's paradise, offering a diverse range of wild and challenging trails that combine breathtaking natural beauty with the solitude of remote wilderness. Whether you're looking for the hidden gem of Kinloch Rannoch, the remote and rugged Fisherfield Forest, the epic journey of the Cape Wrath Trail, or the silent vastness of the Cairngorms, there's something for every adventurous and intrepid hiker.
Remember to always be prepared for the elements and plan your trips carefully to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in these wild and wonderful landscapes.