The 13 Most Amazing Peaks in Pentland Hills

The highest peak in the Pentland Hills is Scald Law Summit, standing at 579 meters (1,900 ft). Close behind are Carnethy Hill at 573 meters (1,880 ft) and West Cairn Hill at 562 meters (1,844 ft).

For exceptional views of Edinburgh, Allermuir Hill is highly recommended. Caerketton Hill also provides excellent views towards Edinburgh and Arthur's Seat. From Carnethy Hill, you can enjoy sweeping views over the Glencorse and Loganlea Reservoirs, Edinburgh, and a vast expanse of Scotland.

Yes, Carnethy Hill is celebrated for its wonderful ridge-walking experiences. The Kips (East Kip and West Kip) are also known for their distinctive and steep profiles, offering memorable ridge-walking opportunities.

The Pentland Hills offer diverse terrain, ranging from grassy slopes to more rugged and rocky sections, especially near the summits. Paths are generally clear, but some areas, particularly on higher peaks like Scald Law Summit, can be rough.

Beyond hiking the peaks, you can explore various outdoor activities. There are numerous cycling routes, including options like the 'Glencorse Reservoir – Loganlea Reservoir loop', which you can find more about in the Cycling in Pentland Hills guide. For runners, trails like the 'Pentland Skyline Race' offer challenging experiences, detailed in the Running Trails in Pentland Hills guide.

While many peaks offer intermediate to challenging climbs, some areas provide more accessible options. Peaks like Caerketton Hill, located on the edge of the hills, offer rewarding views without being overly strenuous, making them suitable for families looking for a moderate hike.

Many peaks are easily accessible from Edinburgh. Allermuir Hill and Caerketton Hill, for instance, are particularly convenient for a hike from the city, providing a quick escape into nature within easy reach.

The Pentland Hills can be enjoyed year-round, but for the best hiking conditions and expansive views, spring to autumn (April to October) is generally ideal. During winter, be prepared for potentially windy conditions and snow on higher peaks like Scald Law Summit, requiring appropriate gear.

West Kip, along with East Kip, is known for being one of the most distinctive and steepest hills in the range. It is frequently cited as the Pentland's finest hill, offering fantastic vistas and challenging ascents as part of the memorable ridge-walking experiences.

Yes, on a clear day, the views from various peaks are extensive. From West Cairn Hill, you can see across West Lothian, Edinburgh, the Ochil and Lomond Hills in Fife, and into the Scottish Borders. From Allermuir Hill, you might even spot the Scottish Highlands.

Visitors consistently praise the expansive panoramic views from the summits, the diverse landscapes, and the opportunity for a quick escape from urban life into nature. The variety of experiences, from gentle strolls to challenging climbs, is also highly valued by the komoot community.