The best walks and hikes around Balerno
4.6
(1908)
20,518
hikers
76
hikes
Hikes around Balerno provide direct access to the Pentland Hills Regional Park, a range of rolling hills on the outskirts of Edinburgh. The landscape is characterized by prominent peaks like Scald Law, expansive reservoirs such as Harlaw and Threipmuir, and the river path of the Water of Leith Walkway. This combination of hill ascents and waterside paths offers a variety of hiking experiences.
Best hiking trails around Balerno
- The most popular hiking route is West & East Kip plus Scald Law loop from Threipmuir Reservoir — Pentland Hills, a 7.7 mile (12.4 km) trail that takes around 3 hours 56 minutes to complete. This route involves ascents to several of the main peaks in the Pentlands.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Harlaw Reservoir & Threipmuir Reservoir loop — Pentland Hills, an easy 2.7 mile (4.4 km) path. It follows a relatively flat trail around the two bodies of water.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Scald Law & Glencorse Reservoir loop from Harlaw Reservoir — Pentland Hills, a 12.1 mile (19.5 km) trail leading through the heart of the hills, often completed in about 5 hours 52 minutes.
- Hiking around Balerno is defined by rolling hill ascents, reservoir circuits, and riverside walkways. The network of paths provides options for different ability levels, from gentle walks to more difficult hill hikes.
- The routes in Balerno are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 900 reviews. More than 8,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Balerno's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
4.9
(109)
665
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.8
(48)
305
hikers
16.3km
04:27
240m
240m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
4.9
(47)
147
hikers
13.8km
04:22
440m
440m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.5
(18)
184
hikers
4.42km
01:09
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(8)
44
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Stunning views. Path gets very gravelly so care needed if you are less experienced off-road
0
0
After the peaks it's all flat terrain and definitely more busy on a dry day. Walk the way back after the last peak if you prefer the challenge of it.
0
0
Nestled amongst the Pentland Hills, Glencorse Reservoir is incredibly picturesque. It was built between 1820 and 1824 to provide water to mills in the area and supply drinking water to Edinburgh. Today, the reservoir still supplies water to 450,000 people. The reservoir was created by constructing a dam, which is 77 feet (23.5 m) at its highest point.
2
0
Loganlea Reservoir was completed in 1851. It is fed by the logan Burn and the water then flows into the larger Glencorse Reservoir. It's one of a series of reservoirs in the Pentland Hills built in the 1800s to provide water for the growing city of Edinburgh. Loganlea reservoir is well positioned within the Pentlands, you can only see the hills from its banks.
0
0
Redford Bridge crosses between Bravelaw Marsh to the west and Threipmuir Reservoir to the east. It's a useful access point to the Pentland Hills from the north.
0
0
Harlaw Reservoir was constructed between 1843 and 1848, at the same time as the larger Threipmuir Reservoir upstream. It's a simple gravity earth dam construction that adds to the volume of water available for Edinburgh.
0
0
Threipmuir Reservoir was dammed and formed between 1843 and 1848. It was constructed to provide water for Edinburgh.
0
0
The Glencorse Reservoir is held back by an earth dam built in the early 1820's. The water was used to power the mills downstream and provide drinking water to Edinburgh and the surrounding area.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many circular walks starting from Balerno?
Yes, many trails around Balerno are loops. A great example is The Pentland Hills Reservoir loop from Threipmuir Reservoir, which offers a moderately challenging 10-mile (16 km) circuit with varied scenery. You can find numerous other circular options exploring the hills and reservoirs.
What are the best options for easy, family-friendly walks?
The area around Harlaw and Threipmuir Reservoirs is ideal for families. The paths are generally flat and well-maintained, offering short, manageable loops. The Harlaw Reservoir & Threipmuir Reservoir loop is a popular choice, at just under 3 miles (4.4 km).
Can I bring my dog on the trails around Balerno?
Most trails in the Pentland Hills Regional Park are dog-friendly. The wide-open spaces and reservoir paths are great for walking with dogs. However, be aware that you will likely encounter livestock, so it's essential to keep your dog under close control or on a lead, especially during lambing season (spring).
How do I get to the Pentland Hills trailheads from Balerno?
Balerno provides direct access to the Pentlands. The main starting points for many popular hill walks are the car parks at Harlaw and Threipmuir Reservoirs, which are just a short drive or a brisk walk from the village itself. These car parks serve as gateways to the northern part of the regional park.
What is the Water of Leith Walkway like starting from Balerno?
The Water of Leith Walkway begins in Balerno, offering a sheltered and relatively flat path that follows the river. This section is lush and wooded, providing a peaceful experience with opportunities for spotting wildlife like herons and kingfishers. It's a great alternative to the exposed hill walks.
How difficult is the hike over Scald Law and the Kips?
Climbing Scald Law, West Kip, and East Kip is considered a challenging hike. It involves several steep ascents and descents on exposed hillsides. The route requires a good level of fitness and rewards hikers with panoramic views. A popular route that includes these peaks is the West & East Kip plus Scald Law loop.
Are there any particularly challenging long-distance hikes?
Yes, for those seeking a strenuous day out, the Scald Law & Glencorse Reservoir loop from Harlaw Reservoir is a demanding 12-mile (19.5 km) trek. It combines the ascent of the highest peak in the Pentlands with a long circuit around the scenic Glencorse Reservoir, taking around 6 hours to complete.
What do other hikers enjoy about the trails near Balerno?
The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars. Hikers frequently praise the variety of trails, from the challenging hill climbs offering stunning views of Edinburgh to the tranquil walks around the reservoirs. The easy access to wild-feeling landscapes so close to the city is a major highlight.
How many hiking trails are available around Balerno?
There are over 60 hiking routes to explore around Balerno. These range from short, easy strolls suitable for all abilities to difficult, full-day hillwalking adventures in the Pentland Hills.
Are there any nature reserves to visit near Balerno?
Yes, the Red Moss Nature Reserve, managed by the Scottish Wildlife Trust, is located just outside Balerno. It features a boardwalk path across a rare peat bog habitat, offering a unique and educational walk that's different from the typical Pentland hill trails.
Where can I find good views without a strenuous climb?
The paths around Harlaw and Threipmuir reservoirs provide beautiful views across the water towards the rolling hills without requiring a major ascent. For a short climb with a big payoff, Cockleroy Hill, a bit further afield, is a local favorite known for its accessible path and rewarding summit views.
Most popular routes around Balerno
Most popular attractions around Balerno
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
