Character
An unofficial route across all of Scotland from the English border to the northernmost point of the mainland.
Mountain Treks
SNT Scottish National Trail
Scotland's longest trail runs the length of the country from the English border to Cape Wrath — through the Highlands and untouched wilderness.
Overview
Scottish National Trail is an unofficial but well-documented route across all of Scotland. It connects Kirk Yetholm through the central Cairngorms to the northernmost point of the mainland. Scotland's right-to-roam law allows wild camping anywhere.
- Distance
- 864 km
- Time
- 35-50 days
- Difficulty
- Hard
- Total elevation gain
- 22,000 m
Route & profile
Quick orientation of the route line, start, end and elevation profile.
Elevation profileHighest 345 m a.s.l. · Grantown-on-Spey / Tomintoul
Skotsko, Velká Británie
864 km · 15 stages · ↑ 22,000 m
Map data: OpenStreetMap contributors, displayed via Waymarked Trails.
Planning
Right to roam means free wild camping. B&Bs in villages at £50–80/night.
June–August is optimal. Midges are worst in July. The outdoor season runs May–September.
What to expect
Who it's for
Experienced hikers who love wild nature, admirers of Scotland and those looking for a comprehensive Scottish experience.
Suggested pace
Stages of 20–25 km per day. The higher sections (Cairngorms, Sutherland) are more demanding and slower.
Logistics
Train to Kirk Yetholm via Kelso. Finish at Durness or Cape Wrath — bus back or fly from Inverness.
Resupply & permits
Resupply
Uneven — villages every 15–30 km. Carry 2–3 days of food in remote sections.
Permits & regulations
No permits. Right to roam is a legal right in Scotland.
Why go
- Scotland's right-to-roam law — free wild camping anywhere.
- The Cairngorms — the highest British plateau.
- Crossing Glen Coe and the Great Glen.
- A dramatic finish on the Cape Wrath coastline.
Watch out for
- Midges are unpleasant in July–August — repellent is essential.
- Parts of the route are unmarked — GPS is necessary.
- Weather changes quickly — always carry layering and waterproofs.
Sources
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time for Scottish National Trail?
June–August is optimal. Midges are worst in July. The outdoor season runs May–September.
How hard is Scottish National Trail?
Scottish National Trail is rated as Hard. An unofficial route across all of Scotland from the English border to the northernmost point of the mainland.
How many days does Scottish National Trail take?
Scottish National Trail usually takes 35–50 days. Stages of 20–25 km per day. The higher sections (Cairngorms, Sutherland) are more demanding and slower.
Do I need a permit for Scottish National Trail?
No permits. Right to roam is a legal right in Scotland.
What about resupply on Scottish National Trail?
Uneven — villages every 15–30 km. Carry 2–3 days of food in remote sections.
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Photos from trekkers
Real shots from the trail by people who walked it — coming soon.