The best walks and hikes around Fort Augustus And Glenmoriston

Yes, the region has several options suitable for families. A great choice is the Bench With View of Loch Ness – Enchanted Forest loop from Fort Augustus. It's a short walk of about an hour through the woods with a rewarding viewpoint over Loch Ness. Another popular spot for a family outing is Allt na Criche, which features a lively waterfall and picturesque scenery.

Many trails in the area feature waterfalls. For a route that combines a waterfall with great views, consider the trails around Foyers. The View across Loch Ness – View of Loch Ness loop from Foyers is a moderate hike that takes you near the impressive Falls of Foyers while also offering fantastic vistas over the loch.

Most trails in the Scottish Highlands, including those around Fort Augustus, are great for dogs. However, you should be prepared for varied terrain and potential livestock. Always keep your dog under control, especially near sheep, and be mindful of local signage. The riverside and forest paths are generally excellent for walks with a canine companion.

For stunning vistas, the Suidhe Viewpoint is a popular and easily accessible option with a short walk from the car park. For a more substantial hike with a great payoff, the Viewcatcher Sculpture – The Viewcatcher Wheel loop from Invermoriston climbs to offer panoramic views across the Great Glen.

Yes, the area is a good base for tackling several Munros. A classic challenge is the loop of the East Kintail Munros, which includes Carn Ghluasaid, Sgurr nan Conbhairean, and Sail Chaorainn. This is a difficult, full-day expedition requiring good fitness and navigation skills.

This section of the Great Glen Way is a challenging but rewarding day hike. The Enchanted Forest – Fort Augustus Locks loop from Invermoriston covers this stretch, taking you on high-level forest tracks with excellent views over Loch Ness. The path is well-defined but involves significant ascent and descent.

The difficulty varies greatly. You'll find everything from easy, low-level walks along the Caledonian Canal to moderate forest trails with some climbing, and difficult, high-altitude mountain routes on exposed ridges. Of the 50+ trails in the area, most are rated as easy or moderate, so there are plenty of options for the average hiker.

The trails around Fort Augustus and Glenmoriston are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning viewpoints over Loch Ness, the tranquility of the ancient forests, and the variety of walks available, from gentle riverside strolls to demanding mountain climbs.

Fort Augustus is well-served by bus services connecting it to major hubs like Inverness and Fort William, making it a great base for hikers relying on public transport. Many trails, including sections of the Great Glen Way, start directly from the village. For detailed timetables and routes, check the Citylink or Stagecoach websites.

There is a main car park in the centre of Fort Augustus, which is a convenient starting point for walks along the canal, the River Oich, and the Great Glen Way. For trails slightly further afield, like those at Allt na Criche or Suidhe Viewpoint, there are dedicated parking areas at or near the trailheads. Always park considerately and avoid blocking access.