6 Places to Walk in Scotland in the Fall

We may be biased (Macs Adventure HQ is based in Scotland), but we think that the Scottish landscape looks truly beautiful in the fall. The trees turn warming shades of reds, oranges and yellows, while moorlands and mountains feature golden hues of browns.  The mountain tops are often dusted with early snowfall and many days have bright skies and crisp, dry weather, this time of year can be fantastic for a hike in Scotland.

Look out for migrating wildlife as you hike and listen for the eerie sounds of the roars of stags as they approach the rutting season. Fall is normally a good time to avoid the dreaded midge, too. These biting bugs mostly disappear, only to return in the summer months.

Glencoe, the Highlands

Whether it’s on the West Highland Way, climbing a Munro (mountains in Scotland of at least 3,000ft) or strolling a valley, Glencoe is hard to beat for stunning high-rise scenery. Enjoy the oranges and browns of a fall palate in Glencoe.

The Trossachs

The Rob Roy Way passes through the Trossachs as part of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. There are also many miles of trails, woodland paths and mountain routes to enjoy in this beautiful area at the heart of central Scotland which has a real richness to the scenery, with mixed forestry, mountain peaks, and serene loch-sides.

Island of Skye

Walking from the Storr to Portree

Acclaimed as a place of dramatic scenery, Skye offers some fabulous walks. The Quiraing is a favorite with its odd geology and sweeping views. The weather can be bracing at this time of year, but as long as you're prepared with the right clothing (windproof and waterproof always!), it just adds to the sense of wonder and sense of adventure. Plus, the cozy hospitality at the end of the day is all the more appreciated!

Big Tree Country

Perthshire is known as Big Tree Country and in the fall the countryside and trees look like they have been painted from a bright artist’s pallet. You won't regret exploring Perthshire at this time of the year, and of course the warm and welcoming hotels and pubs are the perfect place to unwind and warm up!

North-west Scotland

Winding road to Applecross

The North Coast 500 route is perfect for the fall thanks to a combination of driving and hiking options. There are so many highlights of this beautiful journey, including a short diversion to spectacular Applecross, passing Durness along the route, and the miles and miles of wide open space.

Look up at Ben Nevis

Views of Ben Nevis

Ben Nevis is the UK’s tallest mountain and is a tremendous sight all year round. Hopefully, you’ll get to see it with a cloud-free top. The colors of the Highlands landscape in fall only add to the mountain’s grand scale and beauty. You can see Ben Nevis when walking the Great Glen Way.

To find out more about walking tours in the fall and availability, contact our team on hello@macsadventure.com.

This post has been updated from an original post by Fiona Outdoors posted in 2016.