Fort William, Glencoe & Lochaber Short Walks Made Easy

This guide features ten family-friendly and easy-paced short walks within the Scottish Highlands. Covering an area from Mallaig, on the west coast, to the Great Glen, and extending to the shore of Loch Sunart, the routes in this guide give a taste of some wild and remote country on safe, carefully selected short walks. Walks cover mountains, lochs, woodland, and coast.

What to expect from the walks in Fort William, Glen Coe and Lochaber Short Walks Made Easy:

1. Camusdarach Beach: Nestled south of the Silver Sands of Morar, this stretch of coastline boasts shallow bays, rocky headlands, and distant island views.

2. Glenfinnan: Set amidst high mountains at Loch Shiel’s head, Glenfinnan features the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct and Monument. Enjoy sensational views over Loch Shiel along the flat River Finnan path or the more adventurous Viaduct Trail.

3. Spean Bridge: This walk, 10 miles up the Great Glen from Fort William, offers magnificent mountain panoramas, including Ben Nevis.

4. Caledonian Canal: This leisurely canal walk between Banavie and Corpach offers views of Ben Nevis and the wonderful Neptune’s Staircase.

5. Fort William: Linking two ruined fortifications, this walk provides historical insights and views of Ben Nevis, plus riverside woodland and tranquil countryside.

6. Glen Nevis: Starting from Ben Nevis’s base, this accessible path offers majestic views of Glen Nevis and Ben Nevis, with options for a forest return route.

7. Kinlochleven: Enjoy a low-level riverside walk with stunning views down Loch Leven, highlighting the area’s heritage and natural beauty.

8. Glencoe: Combining loch and woodland trails, this walk provides tranquil circuits with opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy breathtaking views of Glen Coe.

9. Ariundle, Strontian: Explore ancient woodlands and open heath near Strontian, with lovely views of the Strontian River and historical mining sites.

10. Garbh Eilean: Attractive town walk follows River Barle with oak woodland.