The best walks and hikes around Moffat And District

Yes, the Moffat Hills are excellent for circular hikes. For a challenging day out, the Hart Fell Horseshoe is a classic route for experienced hikers, offering panoramic views from one of the area's highest peaks. It's a demanding but rewarding circuit of about 13.5 km.

Certainly. For a gentle and accessible walk, the Moffat riverside loop is a great choice. It's a flat, 4.8 km trail that follows the river near the town, perfect for a relaxed family outing or a short stroll.

The walk to the base of the waterfall is short, but the main path alongside it is steep and requires care. The popular Loch Skeen return via Grey Mare's Tail trail is a moderate 4.6 km hike that involves a significant climb on a well-defined but rocky path to reach the beautiful Loch Skeen above the falls.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on trails in the Moffat area, but they should be kept under close control, especially in the Moffat Hills and near nature reserves like Grey Mare's Tail where livestock and ground-nesting birds are present. The town of Moffat is known for being dog-friendly, with several pubs and cafes welcoming well-behaved dogs.

For hikes starting from the town, there are various parking options in Moffat itself. For trails in the Moffat Hills, the most popular starting point is the National Trust for Scotland's Grey Mare's Tail Waterfall Car Park on the A708. It's a well-regarded spot but can get busy, so arriving early is recommended. Please note that this is a pay-and-display car park.

The Devil's Beef Tub is a deep, dramatic hollow in the hills north of Moffat, historically used by Border Reivers to hide stolen cattle. It's the source of the River Annan. There are several trails that explore the area, including a challenging 22.7 km route along the Annandale Way that offers fantastic views into the vast natural amphitheater.

The weather in the Southern Uplands can change very quickly. Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are essential. You should always carry waterproof trousers and a jacket, even on a clear day. Layers of clothing are best for managing temperature. A map, compass, and plenty of water and food are also crucial, as many routes are remote and exposed.

Moffat and the Southern Uplands offer a much quieter and more remote hiking experience compared to the often-crowded trails of the Lake District. The landscape is characterized by vast, rolling moorlands and deep, lonely valleys, providing a strong sense of solitude and wilderness that many hikers seek.

Wild camping is permitted in Scotland under the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, which applies to the Moffat Hills. You must follow the code's principles, which include camping in small numbers, staying for only a short period, and leaving no trace. Avoid camping in enclosed fields of crops or farm animals and stay well away from buildings and roads.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the stunning scenery, particularly the dramatic waterfalls and high lochs. The sense of peace and quiet on the trails, away from larger crowds, is another commonly highlighted feature.

There are over 45 curated hiking routes to explore around Moffat and District on komoot. These range from easy riverside walks suitable for all abilities to difficult mountain circuits for experienced hillwalkers, covering the diverse terrain of the Southern Uplands.

Yes, Moffat is a key point on two major long-distance trails. The town marks the northern end of the 56-mile Annandale Way, which follows the River Annan through the dale. Additionally, the famous Southern Upland Way, a 214-mile coast-to-coast route, passes through the region just north of the town, offering options for longer backpacking trips.