Autumn Nature Hikes Scotland

Stunning Autumn hiking through Scotland The colder seasons in Scotland tend to bring out the most dramatic scenery, misty mountains, golden hills, and white-tipped peaks. So if you are looking for an adventurous trip when you're planning what to do in Scotland this year, then look no further. Here are our suggestions of some of the nicest locations in Perthshire for either casual walking or longer more challenging hikes. Killliecrankie Find the exact location using What3Words ///roofs.etchings.panthers This is a lovely walk through the famous pass of Killiecrankie and alongside the Rivers Tummel and Garry. If you are staying in Pitlochry or have parked Bonnie nearby, you have several options as to where and how to start and also how strenuous to make the walk. You can either park at the Killiecrankie Visitor’s Centre (a charge applies), or set off on foot. This is not a short walk, but if you want to make the route even more challenging, it can be combined with a walk up (or down) Ben Vrackie. If you are quiet then you may be lucky enough to spot badgers, deer, pine marten, and otters along the way so make sure to bring your camera! Diana’s Grove, Blair Castle Find the exact location using What3Words ///mallets.herb.vows If you like your trees tall, this is the walk for you. Planned in 1737, this woodland was funded by the ‘Planting Dukes’ of Atholl, who received this name due to their habit of planting millions of trees across their vast estates. The walk was named after the Greek Goddess of the hunt, Diana’s Grove is a gentle walk that can be combined with a stroll around the gardens of Blair Castle. This unique walk resembles the California Redwoods as the trees here are huge, Britain’s second tallest specimen, a Grand Fir that stands at 206 ft/62.7 m. You will feel humbled by the massiveness of mother nature. Loch an Eilein, Cairngorm National Park Find the exact location using What3Words ///firms.shorter.paramedic This is a great hike for families, this hike will take you deep in the forest of Rothiemurchus which is sheltered by ancient Caledonian pines and has lovely views of a 13th-century island castle. The low-level route around the loch is perfect for families, even if they're pushing off-road buggies. We recommend bringing your camera or binoculars while en route, to look out for forest wildlife, including red squirrels and Scottish crossbills. Whether you packed picnic lunch or you cook food with Bonnie, there are plenty of stunning views to enjoy. The Cairngorms is one of Scotland’s hotspots for outdoor adventurers; with plenty of other possibilities beyond hiking, from mountain biking in summer to skiing in winter. It is a beautiful place to visit when in Scotland. Schiehallion Find the exact location using What3Words ///push.embodied.alley If you are looking for an easy walk this is not it. Neither is it the most difficult either, however, the path takes you to the top of a mountain, but due to Schiehallion’s cone shape, the rise is not sudden or especially steep. With sturdy boots, proper clothes (you never know with Scottish weather), food, and a hot drink you are in for an inspirational hike. The name itself means ‘The Fairy Hill of the Caledonians’ and the views are certainly magical. And for those who don't know, fairies can be quite mischievous so be observant. Schiehallion, is one of the most popular mountain walks in Britain and many people have started their Munro bagging with this peak. The Munro bagging is a challenge where a hiker is to climb all of Scotland's Munros (mountains over 3000 ft/914.4 m). Dunkeld, Blairgowrie and Glen Shee Find the exact location using What3Words ///president.afternoon.steeped Historic Dunkeld is a gateway to the Highlands when approaching from the south. It is a picturesque and historic little town with many independent shops and old buildings. It sits right on the banks of the River Tay, Scotland's grandest river, clothed with magnificent woodlands. Nearby is the Loch of Lowes with its famous ospreys. There are several different trails going around the area, ranging from 3.5 km to 27 km. Ardblair trail and Bluebell Woods Is a 9.5 km walk that takes approximately 2-2.5 hours. You can park Bonnie in the Riverside car park and start from there. This lovely walk takes you through countryside, a loch, and some woodlands so pack for all terrains. Den of Alyth Is a shorter walk with a distance of 3.5 km that takes about 1-1.5 hours. This is a beautiful forest walk that explores trickling rivers, copper-coloured trees, and several bridges. In the autumn season, this trail can be quite muddy so dress accordingly. Loch Ordie and Deuchary Hill This is a walk that will take you about 6 hours so this is not a route for a casual stroll. With a total of 23.5 km, you will pass through quite a moorland, picturesque lochs, mature woods as well as the fantastic viewpoint from Deuchary Hill. You can park Bonnie in Cally car park and start your walk from there. Kinnoull Find the exact location using Kinnoull Hill has fine woodlands and a dramatic clifftop escarpment above the Tay. It makes a grand setting for a cylindrical tower built as a folly. The whole walk makes an excellent circuit from Perth city centre where you can start your trek and also park Bonnie. It's a 6.5 km walk that takes about 2-3 hours. It will take you through some truly lovely scenery both historic and natural.