Hiking in Scotland, especially in the Highlands, naturally leads you to Munros: mountains in Scotland that stand at a minimum of 914 metres (3,000 feet) which were surveyed and catalogued in 1891 by Sir Hugh Munro. These peaks open up some of Scotland's most striking scenery, offering challenges to seasoned hikers while still including options that are accessible to beginners.
Walkers in Glencoe
© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam
Ben Vorlich
Munros are mountains that are found across Scotland. Munros are mountains over 3,000 ft (914 m) in height.
Munro bagging is a popular pastime in Scotland where walking enthusiasts challenge themselves to climb as many of the peaks as they can – over 6,000 people, called 'compleatists' (or Munroists) have climbed them all so far.
Explore Scotland’s Munros, from beginner peaks to iconic climbs and hidden gems.
Mount Keen
© @show_me_scotland_
Ben Lomond – a well-defined path and easy access from the Central Belt.
Schiehallion – a straightforward route with panoramic mountain views.
Mount Keen – a longer walk with rewarding 360° views of the Cairngorms and Angus Glens.
Discover more beginner-friendly Munros
Ben Nevis – the highest mountain in the British Isles, standing proudly in the Scottish Highlands.
Ben Lawers – great views of Loch Tay and well-marked scenic trails through a diverse National Nature Reserve.
Buachaille Etive Beag – dramatic views of Glen Coe and great vantage points of Buachaille Etive Mòr – two Munros in one!
Driesh & Mayar – an accessible day out through the spectacular Corrie Fee National Nature Reserve.
Beinn Mheadhoin – a summit resembling a martian landscape, scattered with Granite Tors (rocky outcrop rising abruptly from the surrounding smooth slope).
Meall nan Tarmachan – quick to summit, but best enjoyed via the airy Tarmachan Ridge.
Arrochar Alps (Beinn Narnain, Beinn Ime, Ben Vane and Ben Vorlich) – these mountains all sit on the west side of Loch Lomond, conveniently on the CityLink/Ember bus routes from Glasgow to Fort William.
Beinn a' Chleibh – accessible via the West Highland Line from Glasgow to Oban/Fort William, alight at Tyndrum.
Beinn Dòrain & Beinn an Dòthaidh – conveniently located next to Bridge of Orchy Station for rail services and Bridge of Orchy Hotel for CityLink services.
Càrn na Caim and A' Bhuidheanach Bheag – excellent access from Dalwhinnie village which has both bus and train connections.
Learn more about Ben Nevis, the tallest point in the British Isles. A popular destination for walkers of all levels, it offers scenic trails and a memorable outdoor experience in the Scottish Highlands.
Before heading into the Scottish mountains, it’s essential to be well prepared. The following resources provide expert advice on mountain safety, essential kit, and developing your hillwalking skills.
Safety & skills guides - Mountaineering Scotland
Essential hillwalking kit checklist
Sofa 2 Summit training programme
Find more expert mountain safety advice from Scottish Mountain Rescue to help you plan ahead, stay aware and enjoy every Munro with confidence.
Scotland is home to 282 Munros.
Some Munros are accessible for confident beginners, but most require a good level of fitness, basic navigation skills, and experience of walking in changeable mountain conditions. Routes can be long, steep, and remote, so preparation is essential. If you’re new to mountaineering, starting with shorter routes, well-trodden paths and clear weather windows is a good idea.
You should always be prepared for all weather conditions. This includes waterproofs, warm layers, sturdy walking boots, sufficient food and water, and reliable navigation tools such as a map and compass. A headtorch, first aid kit, and emergency shelter are recommended even in summer.
Many people walk Munros solo, but extra care is required on a solo climb. If walking alone, always tell someone your planned route and expected return time, stick to known paths, and be prepared to turn back if conditions worsen.
Check the weather forecast before setting off, plan your route carefully, and allow plenty of time. Conditions can change very quickly, so being flexible with your plans is important. In an emergency, dial 999 or 112 and ask for Police, then Mountain Rescue.
Yes, but winter ascents require specialist knowledge and equipment such as crampons and an ice axe. Snow, ice, and avalanche risk can make routes much more dangerous, so winter skills training or guided walks are strongly advised.
Munros can be climbed year-round, but late spring to early autumn is generally the most popular period due to longer daylight hours. Even in summer, cold, wind, and poor visibility are common at higher elevations.
Get Scotland inspiration direct to your inbox. Don't miss the inside track from our Scotland experts on exciting trip ideas, unique attractions and hidden gems loved by locals.