Long distance routes

Trails in the Highlands

There are 3 designated Long Distance Routes (LDRs) in the Highlands, they are:

• The Great Glen Way
• The Speyside Way
• The West Highland Way

These have been created by linking existing paths used for commerce, drove roads and for historical pilgrimage with the provision of new paths.

All are marked with signs that include the Long Distance Route symbol of a thistle in a hexagon and are carefully managed and maintained to a high standard.

We are involved in the management and development of all these routes.

Scotland’s Great Trails

Scotland’s Great Trails are nationally promoted trails. Each is distinctively waymarked, largely off-road and has a range of visitor services. With each trail being at least 25 miles in length, all are suitable for day trips or longer.

Collectively, these routes provide over 1300 miles of well managed paths from the Borders to the Highlands, offering great opportunities to explore the best of Scotland's nature and landscapes and to experience our amazing history and culture.  Other than the 3 LDRs listed above the other Scottish Great Trails in Highland are the Great Glen Canoe Trail.  and the Dava Way. 

Other Trails

A number of other trails are developed, or are in development, in Highland.  Further links are provided on our Outdoor Highlands website.