The best walks and hikes around Inverness

Yes, the Inverness area is very welcoming for dogs. Many trails, especially those in open glens and along loch shores, are suitable for walking with your dog. The paths around the Ness Islands and along the Caledonian Canal towpath are excellent choices for a walk with your four-legged friend right from the city.

For an easy and accessible walk that's great for all ages, the Cuba Marsh loop is a fantastic option. It's a relatively flat, 5.4 km trail. Another popular spot for families is the Ness Islands, a beautiful park with a network of paths and bridges that are easy for little legs to manage.

Absolutely. The region boasts several stunning waterfalls. Plodda Falls is a local favourite, featuring a dramatic 46-meter drop into a gorge surrounded by tall Douglas fir trees. There are short walking trails to different viewing platforms. Another highly-regarded option is the walk through Fairy Glen to see the falls at Rosemarkie.

Yes, there are many circular routes so you don't have to retrace your steps. For a shorter, scenic loop, consider the Lake of the Coves loop, which is about 6.4 km. For a more substantial day out, the 10-mile circuit of Loch Affric is often cited as one of Scotland's most beautiful walks.

The climb up Craig Phadrig is a perfect short hike. It takes you to the site of an ancient Iron Age fort and rewards you with panoramic views over Inverness and the Beauly Firth. Another excellent choice is the Reelig Glen Highland Walk, a short circuit through a forest known for having some of Britain's tallest trees.

Yes, you don't need to travel far for a beautiful walk. You can start directly from the city and explore the banks of the River Ness, crossing the Victorian suspension bridges to the tranquil Ness Islands. Alternatively, you can follow the towpath of the Caledonian Canal for a gentle, flat walk with lovely views.

Many trailheads are accessible from Inverness via bus. Regular bus services run from Inverness to surrounding villages and key locations like Drumnadrochit on the shore of Loch Ness, which provides access to the Great Glen Way and local trails. It's always best to check the latest timetables with local operators before you travel.

The weather in the Highlands can change very quickly, so it's essential to be prepared. Always wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots. Pack waterproof trousers and a jacket, even if the day starts sunny. It's also wise to bring extra layers like a fleece, a hat, gloves, a map, a compass or GPS device, and plenty of water and snacks.

You can hike around Inverness year-round, but the best conditions are typically from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During this period, the days are longer, the weather is generally warmer and drier, and the landscape is lush and green. However, be prepared for midges, especially in the summer months.

Yes, Inverness is the finishing point for the famous Great Glen Way, a 117 km route that starts in Fort William. You can easily tackle the final stage into the city as a day hike. The area is also home to the Loch Ness 360° Trail, a 125 km circuit around the entire loch, which can be broken down into smaller sections.

The trails around Inverness are well-regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.3 stars. Hikers often praise the incredible variety, from the legendary scenery around Loch Ness to the peaceful ancient forests of Glen Affric and the accessible paths along the River Ness.

There are over 40 curated hiking routes around Inverness available on komoot. These range from easy, family-friendly strolls to more challenging full-day hikes, ensuring there's a trail to suit every ability and interest.