Family-Friendly Hikes in Scotland: Trails for All Ages

By JJames janeiro 19, 2025

Scotland's breathtaking landscapes aren't just for seasoned hikers—they're perfect for families seeking adventure together. Whether you’re looking for short, accessible walks or slightly more challenging hikes, Scotland has a wide range of family-friendly trails to suit all ages and fitness levels. Here are some of the best hikes in Scotland that everyone in the family can enjoy.

1. Arthur's Seat, Edinburgh

A family favorite, Arthur's Seat is located in the heart of Edinburgh and offers a relatively easy hike with stunning views of the city, the Firth of Forth, and beyond. This extinct volcano rises 251 meters above the city, making it a perfect introduction to hill walking for younger children and beginners. The paths are well-maintained and there are several routes to choose from, with the summit rewarding hikers with panoramic views. The hike is short, typically taking 1 to 2 hours to complete, making it ideal for families with younger children.

Highlights:

Stunning views of Edinburgh and the surrounding countryside
Short and manageable hike suitable for families
Easy access from the city center

2. The Fairy Pools, Isle of Skye

The Fairy Pools are one of Scotland’s most magical locations, nestled in the heart of the Isle of Skye. This family-friendly trail takes you along a gentle path to a series of crystal-clear pools and waterfalls, where you can stop and explore or even enjoy a dip (for the brave!). The walk is approximately 2 kilometers, and the route is flat and suitable for children of all ages. The beauty of the surroundings, along with the chance to spot local wildlife, makes this hike a favorite for families seeking a bit of enchantment.

Highlights:

Beautiful waterfalls and pools to explore
Flat, easy trail for all ages
Scenic views of the Cuillin Mountains

3. The Glenfinnan Viaduct Trail, Scottish Highlands

For families who love both nature and history, the Glenfinnan Viaduct Trail offers a fascinating journey. The trail takes you to one of Scotland's most iconic landmarks, the Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous by the Harry Potter films. The hike is short and relatively easy, making it great for young children. As you walk, you’ll be treated to stunning views of Loch Shiel and the surrounding mountains. The trail is also perfect for train enthusiasts, as the Jacobite Steam Train passes over the viaduct, adding an extra element of excitement for children.

Highlights:

Famous viaduct featured in the Harry Potter films
Scenic views of Loch Shiel and the surrounding Highlands
Easy, short trail suitable for families

4. Loch an Eilein, Cairngorms National Park

Loch an Eilein, located in the Cairngorms National Park, is a perfect spot for a relaxed family hike. The trail loops around the beautiful loch and offers views of the 13th-century Loch an Eilein Castle, situated on an island in the middle of the water. The walk is approximately 4 kilometers and is relatively flat, making it accessible for children and families of all abilities. Along the way, you might spot wildlife such as red squirrels, birds, and even the occasional deer.

Highlights:

Beautiful lakeside walk with views of a historic castle
Relatively flat and easy route suitable for children
Chance to spot wildlife along the way

5. Ben A'an, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park

If you’re looking for a slightly more challenging hike for older children or teenagers, Ben A’an in the Trossachs National Park is a great option. At 454 meters, this small hill provides a wonderful panoramic view of Loch Achray and the surrounding mountains. The trail is a bit steeper than the others on this list, but it’s still manageable for families with older children or teenagers. The views from the summit are absolutely worth the effort.

Highlights:

Panoramic views of Loch Achray and the surrounding Trossachs area
A bit more of a challenge for older children or teenagers
Perfect for a half-day hike

6. The Kintail Trails, Scottish Highlands

The Kintail Trails, located in the Scottish Highlands, are ideal for families who want to explore Scotland’s rugged natural beauty without the strenuous effort of summiting mountains. The area offers several trails that vary in difficulty, with many suitable for families. For a gentler walk, the Trail of the Red Deer is a great option, where families can enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding hills and wildlife, including red deer. The trails are relatively short, and the terrain is easy to navigate.

Highlights:

Explore the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands
Trails suitable for all ages and abilities
Opportunities to spot wildlife such as red deer

7. The Trossachs Trail, Loch Lomond

The Trossachs Trail, located in the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, offers a scenic and relatively easy walk for families. The trail passes through a range of landscapes, from woodlands to lochs, offering beautiful views of the surrounding hills. It’s a great option for those looking for a shorter, manageable hike with plenty of opportunities for picnics and rest stops along the way. The trail is around 7 kilometers in length, making it ideal for a leisurely day out with the family.

Highlights:

Scenic and easy trail through woodlands and lochs
Ideal for a family day out with picnic spots
Beautiful views of Loch Lomond and the surrounding hills

8. The West Highland Way, Milngavie to Drymen

For families with older children or teens who are ready for a longer hike, a section of the West Highland Way might be a great choice. The first part of the famous long-distance trail, from Milngavie to Drymen, is relatively flat and easy, taking you through lovely woodlands and past beautiful lochs. It’s a good introduction to Scotland’s most famous trail, and families can choose to walk a shorter section of the trail depending on their abilities.

Highlights:

Section of Scotland’s famous West Highland Way
Lovely woodland walks and scenic lochs
Suitable for families with older children or teens

9. The Balmoral Estate Trails, Aberdeenshire

The Balmoral Estate in Aberdeenshire offers a variety of family-friendly trails, all set in stunning surroundings. The estate has well-marked paths that lead you through woodlands, alongside rivers, and past historical sites, including the famous Balmoral Castle. The trails are varied in length and difficulty, but many are short and easy enough for young children. It’s a fantastic way to explore the grounds of the royal estate and enjoy a family day out.

Highlights:

Explore the beautiful Balmoral Estate
Variety of easy trails suitable for families
Chance to visit Balmoral Castle

10. The Green Loch, Cairngorms National Park

The Green Loch is a hidden gem in the Cairngorms National Park, known for its striking turquoise water. The trail to the loch is just 2.5 kilometers and is perfect for families with young children. The path is flat and easy to follow, making it suitable for strollers or those with limited mobility. The stunning loch surrounded by forest makes it a peaceful spot for a family picnic and a great place to unwind after the hike.

Highlights: