Best Dog Walks in the Scottish Highlands: From Easy Strolls to Challenging Hikes

There’s no better way to explore the Scottish Highlands than on foot, and if you’ve got a four-legged companion, even better. Whether you prefer a relaxed lochside stroll or a tougher mountain hike, the Highlands have plenty to offer. These are (in our opinion) some of the best dog walks in the Scottish Highlands.

From coastal trails to rugged peaks, they provide a mix of scenery, adventure, and fresh air. We're sharing a range of locations through the Highlands, ranging from easy to more challenging, so you know where to go depending on where you visit in the Highlands.

1. Glencoe Lochan – A Relaxed Woodland Walk

• Distance: ~2 miles (3.2 km)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Terrain: Well-maintained paths, minimal incline
• Location: Near Glencoe Village

If you're looking for a straightforward walk with great scenery, Glencoe Lochan is a solid pick. It’s an easy loop around a quiet lochan (small lake), surrounded by forested paths and mountain views. Originally planted to resemble Canadian landscapes, this area has a peaceful atmosphere and is perfect for a leisurely outing. Toivo especially loved jumping into the lochan on this hot summer day!

Highlights:

• Well-marked, flat trails, ideal for any fitness level
• Plenty of benches to stop and take in the view
• Close to Glencoe Village for a post-walk coffee or meal

2. Applecross Bay to Sand – A Scenic Coastal Route

• Distance: ~4 miles (6.4 km) round trip
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Terrain: Coastal paths, beach sections
• Location: Applecross Peninsula

For those who prefer a coastal walk, this route from Applecross Bay to Sand offers spectacular views of the coast and the Cuillins on Skye alongside an open beach where dogs can roam and you can even enjoy a swim. It’s not overly strenuous but starts off with a short climb and has a few uneven sections, making it a great choice if you want something more than a simple stroll without committing to a full-on hike.

Highlights:

• Stunning views over Raasay and Skye
• Dog-friendly beach for a good run-around
• Nearby Applecross Inn, one of Scotland’s best-known dog-friendly pubs

3. Beinn a’ Chrulaiste – A Short, Tough Climb with Big Views

• Distance: ~4.5 miles (7.2 km)
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Terrain: Steep, rugged ascent
• Location: Near Altnafeadh, Glencoe

If you’re after a quick but challenging hike with a serious payoff, Beinn a’ Chrulaiste is a great choice. The climb is steep, but the summit offers one of the best views of Glencoe and Buachaille Etive Mòr. It’s less crowded than the more famous peaks nearby, making it a great spot for a quiet hike with your dog. As you can see, Jack was lucky enough to experience a cloud inversion here, and you can see more of our Glen Coe photos here.

Highlights:

• Jaw-dropping views over Glencoe and Rannoch Moor
• A good challenge without being a full-day hike
• Often quieter than other Glencoe walks

4. Camasunary Bay – A Secluded Isle of Skye Adventure

• Distance: ~9 miles (14.5 km) round trip
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Terrain: Coastal trail with some rough patches
• Location: Isle of Skye

Camasunary Bay is one of Skye’s hidden gems, offering a mix of rugged coastline and mountain views. The walk follows a relatively gentle incline before reaching a remote beach with a bothy (a simple shelter) where you can stay overnight. It’s a great route if you want to escape the crowds and enjoy some real Highland wilderness. Jack had a great stay in the bothy in January 2023, and wrote this post about it.

Highlights:

• Incredible views of the Cuillin mountains
• A peaceful, dog-friendly beach
• Remote feel without being overly difficult

5. Stac Pollaidh – A Short but Spectacular Climb

• Distance: ~3 miles (5 km) round trip
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
• Terrain: Rocky, steep sections with some scrambling
• Location: Northwest Highlands, near Ullapool

For those looking for a shorter hike with incredible views, Stac Pollaidh is a fantastic option. Though not the tallest peak in the area, its dramatic ridgeline and panoramic views over Assynt make it one of the most rewarding climbs in the Highlands. The well-maintained path takes you up through rocky terrain, with an optional scramble at the summit for those wanting to reach the highest point.

Highlights:

• Breathtaking views over the rugged landscapes of Assynt and Coigach
• A relatively short but steep climb with a clear path
• One of Scotland’s most iconic and recognisable peaks

6. Beinn na Caillich – A Solid Hill Climb with Rewarding Views

• Distance: ~5 miles (8 km)
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
• Terrain: Rocky, steep in parts
• Location: Near Kyle of Lochalsh

This is a classic hill walk that offers fantastic views over the Isle of Skye and the surrounding landscape. It’s a straightforward ascent but expect some steep sections. If you’re up for the challenge, the panoramic views from the top make it well worth the effort. Jack had a stunning camp on this peak in August 2024, and headed to the Coffee Bothy in Broadford after to refuel!

Highlights:

• Clear summit views over Loch Alsh and Skye
• A good middle-ground between easy walks and serious hikes
• Ancient cairns at the summit, adding a bit of history

7. Huiseabhal Beag – A Quiet, Lesser-Known Trek

• Distance: Varies based on route
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Terrain: Rugged, uneven trails
• Location: Isle of Harris

For those who want to get off the beaten path, Huiseabhal Beag on the Isle of Harris is a great option. It’s a quieter route with plenty of open terrain and spectacular views. Expect a bit of rough ground, but if you’re after solitude and scenery, this is a top choice.

Highlights:

• A less-travelled trail for a true wilderness feel
• Stunning views over Harris and the Outer Hebrides
• Ideal for those who prefer a peaceful walk

Essential Tips for a Great Walk in the Highlands

No matter which route you choose, here are a few key things to keep in mind:

1. Be Prepared

• Weather in the Highlands changes fast, check the forecast before heading out.
• Bring appropriate gear: waterproofs, sturdy boots, and plenty of layers.
• If you're heading into remote areas, take a map or GPS.

2. Keep Your Dog Safe

• Keep them on a lead around livestock.
• Make sure they have enough water, especially on longer routes.
• Watch out for rough terrain that could injure their paws.

3. Respect the Environment

• Stick to marked paths to prevent erosion.
• Pick up after your dog and yourself, leave no trace.
• Follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, especially in farmland areas.

Final Thoughts

The Scottish Highlands offer some of the best dog-friendly walks in the UK, whether you’re after a gentle lakeside loop or a more demanding mountain climb. With the right preparation, these trails make for fantastic adventures with your dog, giving you both the chance to explore some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Scotland.

So grab your boots, pack some treats, and set off on a walk you, and your dog, won’t forget.