In the Highlands you enjoy the freedom to access the outdoors responsibly — but what does that actually mean?
In Scotland, everyone has the right to explore most land and inland water, from beaches and forests to moorland, hills, rivers, and lochs, as long as they behave responsibly. This freedom is supported by the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, which is built on three simple principles:
- You respect other people
- You care for the environment
- You take responsibility for your own actions
In everyday terms, this means giving people privacy around their homes, keeping dogs under proper control, taking litter home, staying safe, and looking after the landscapes, wildlife, and communities you pass through. Land managers also play their part by respecting these access rights and managing their land in a way that helps everyone enjoy Scotland’s outdoors.
Outdoor Access in the Highlands
Long Distance Trails
Great Glen Way
Explore 79 miles of paths, canals, and lochs on this iconic route linking Inverness and Fort William - perfect for walkers and cyclists.
West Highland Way
Scotland’s most famous long-distance trail takes you through rugged mountains and lochs, ideal for an unforgettable adventure.
Great Glen Canoe Trail
Paddle across canals and lochs, portage locks, and enjoy breathtaking Highland scenery on this unique water-based journey.
The Dava Way
A peaceful route following an old railway line between Grantown-on-Spey and Forres, offering gentle gradients and stunning views.
South Loch Ness Trail
58 km route along Loch Ness’s south side on forest paths, farm tracks, and minor roads. Ideal for walkers, cyclists, and horse riders.
Affric Kintail Way
A 44-mile waymarked route from Loch Ness to Kintail for walkers and cyclists, with stunning glens, lochs, and woodlands.
Other routes
East Highland Way
An 82-mile route linking Fort William and Aviemore through woodlands, lochside paths, and rugged Highland wilderness.
North Highland Way
A 150-mile walk from Duncansby Head to Cape Wrath, featuring dramatic coastlines, beaches, waterfalls, and historic villages.
The Skye Trail
A 128 km unofficial route across Skye with rugged terrain, coastal cliffs, the Trotternish Ridge, and views of the Cuillin.
John O'Groats Trail
A 147-mile coastal route from Inverness to John o’ Groats along cliff tops, shorelines, and scenic Highland paths.
Cape Wrath Trail
The Cape Wrath Trail (CWT) is an unofficial, unmarked long‑distance trekking route that runs roughly 386 km / 240 miles from Fort William to Cape Wrath, the most north‑westerly point of mainland Scotland.
