Character
An unofficial, unmarked trek across the wildest part of Scotland. Everyone chooses their own route variant.
Mountain Treks
CWT Cape Wrath Trail
Britain's most challenging trek crosses the unmarked Scottish Highlands to the northernmost point of the mainland.
Overview
Cape Wrath Trail has no official waymarking — it is an established tradition with various routes across wild Scottish moorland. It requires navigation skills, a robust tent and experience with orientation in unpredictable weather.
- Distance
- 370 km
- Time
- 18-25 days
- Difficulty
- Expert
- Total elevation gain
- 14,000 m
Route & profile
Quick orientation of the route line, start, end and elevation profile.
Elevation profileHighest 120 m a.s.l. · Cape Wrath
Skotsko, Velká Británie
370 km · 14 stages · ↑ 14,000 m
Map data: OpenStreetMap contributors, displayed via Waymarked Trails.
Planning
Right to roam — wild camping is free. Bothan shelters are free or a voluntary donation.
June–August is ideal. Midge season peaks in July. Late May and September are possible for more experienced hikers.
What to expect
Who it's for
Very experienced hikers with navigation skills, admirers of untouched wilderness and remote locations.
Suggested pace
A strong pace of 20–25 km per day over tough terrain. Boggy moorland can significantly slow progress.
Logistics
Train to Fort William from Glasgow or Edinburgh. Cape Wrath at the end requires a ferry — check times in advance.
Resupply & permits
Resupply
Minimal — small shops in the villages of Kinlochewe, Ullapool, Kylesku and Durness. You need to carry 4–5 days of food.
Permits & regulations
No permits required. The Cape Wrath ferry must be booked in advance.
Why go
- Britain's most remote trek without fixed waymarking.
- Absolute freedom in pristine Scottish wilderness.
- Right to roam.
- Dramatic landscapes of Sutherland.
Watch out for
- Midges are unpleasant in July–August — repellent and a headnet are essential.
- Rivers without bridges — fords can be dangerous after rain.
- Mobile coverage is minimal.
Sources
Guides & blogs
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time for Cape Wrath Trail?
June–August is ideal. Midge season peaks in July. Late May and September are possible for more experienced hikers.
How hard is Cape Wrath Trail?
Cape Wrath Trail is rated as Expert. An unofficial, unmarked trek across the wildest part of Scotland. Everyone chooses their own route variant.
How many days does Cape Wrath Trail take?
Cape Wrath Trail usually takes 18–25 days. A strong pace of 20–25 km per day over tough terrain. Boggy moorland can significantly slow progress.
Do I need a permit for Cape Wrath Trail?
No permits required. The Cape Wrath ferry must be booked in advance.
What about resupply on Cape Wrath Trail?
Minimal — small shops in the villages of Kinlochewe, Ullapool, Kylesku and Durness. You need to carry 4–5 days of food.
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AV2Photos from trekkers
Real shots from the trail by people who walked it — coming soon.