Cape Wrath Trail

Embark from Fort William, heading north along forestry tracks and quiet paths that trace the lower slopes of Ben Nevis and the hills around Loch Lochy. The route leaves signs of civilization behind, climbing gently through woodland and open moor, following parts of the Great Glen Way and then veering west towards the breathtaking remote shores of Kinloch Hourn.

Follow the challenging narrow trail along Loch Hourn’s rugged southern shore, climb steeply over Mam Barrisdale, and descend towards Barisdale Bay. The path winds deeper into the Knoydart Peninsula, famed for its wild landscapes, before reaching the isolated village of Inverie—only accessible by foot or sea.

Depart Inverie on faint stalker’s paths and old estate tracks, traversing remote glens and wild highland passes. Climb past lonely bothies and over rough uplands, eventually descending alongside Loch Quoich and onward to the road and settlement at Shiel Bridge.

This shorter day offers stunning views, as you ascend into the hills above Glen Shiel and descend through the picturesque Glen Lichd. Follow the River Croe into Morvich—a small hamlet with limited facilities and opportunities to restock supplies.

Venture through the striking mountains of Glen Affric, often considered one of Scotland’s most beautiful glens. The route features steep climbs, rough and frequently boggy terrain, and challenging river crossings before entering the forested paths leading to Strathcarron.

The trail heads through Coulin Forest and beneath the Torridon mountains, navigating remote moorland, rocky tracks, and tranquil glens. The day ends in Kinlochewe after a scenic journey through some of the most striking Highland scenery.

Travel north through Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve, crossing vast moorlands and quiet glens, with occasional shelter provided by remote bothies. The route demands strong navigation, culminating at the tiny settlement of Inverlael.

Head north through remote glens, passing woodland and open moors, and skirting isolated lochans. The route is mostly trackless before picking up faint trails toward Oykel Bridge, a rare spot of civilization with a hotel and resupply options.

Journey north through remote Assynt landscapes and dramatic, wild terrain, navigating river valleys and stretches of undulating highland. Finish at Inchnadamph, where limestone caves and peaks like Conival and Ben More Assynt tower nearby.

Push further into the wilderness on little-defined paths through rocky terrain, skirting isolated lochs, climbing rough bealachs, and arriving at Glendhu Bothy for a simple shelter and a true taste of Highland isolation.

Navigate remote moors, cross wild rivers, and descend through forestry into Achfary. Expect challenging, boggy ground and dramatic views, with few signs of human habitation along most of the section.

The trail passes through open moorland and bog, skirting the shores of Loch More and crossing minor streams before reaching the small community of Rhiconich, a rare chance for rest and limited resupply.

Turn west for a shorter but memorable day through exposed moor to the legendary sands of Sandwood Bay. Relish the wild scenery, towering dunes, and spectacular sea cliffs of this unspoiled stretch of coastline.

Conclude the adventure with a rugged trek across boggy, trackless terrain along the dramatic northwestern coastline, passing sea stacks and hidden coves. Finish at the iconic Cape Wrath Lighthouse, standing sentinel over the North Atlantic.

After reaching Cape Wrath, the common exit involves a vehicle journey across the military range, then a ferry across the Kyle of Durness to the village of Durness—marking the journey’s true finish and return to civilization.