The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Inverness

There are nearly 70 family-friendly hiking trails around Inverness, offering a wide range of experiences suitable for various ages and abilities. You'll find everything from gentle riverside strolls to more adventurous paths through forests and glens.

The terrain varies significantly. You can find easy, flat paths along the River Ness and Ness Islands, or more undulating trails through ancient woodlands like Glen Affric. Some routes might involve gentle ascents, offering rewarding views, while others are well-maintained paths suitable for strollers or younger children.

Yes, many of the family-friendly routes are designed as circular walks, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Woodward Valley Trail & Fire Line Trail loop offers a substantial circular option, or you can find shorter loops within areas like the Ness Islands or Reelig Glen.

Absolutely! The Inverness region is home to several beautiful waterfalls. The Falls of Foyers are a popular choice, accessible via a delightful path. Another spectacular option, though a bit further afield, is Plodda Falls near Glen Affric, which offers a truly impressive sight.

The region is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You can explore the legendary Loch Ness, ancient Caledonian pine forests in Glen Affric, or even the remains of an Iron Age fort on Craig Phadrig. The Nicasio Reservoir and Abbotts Lagoon also offer scenic viewpoints and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Many trails in the Inverness area are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific route details. Generally, paths through woodlands and along riverbanks are welcoming to dogs, provided they are kept under control, especially near livestock or wildlife. Please remember to clean up after your pet.

Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) often provide the most pleasant hiking conditions with milder temperatures and fewer midges. Summer (June-August) is also popular, but can be busier. Winter walks can be magical, especially in snow, but require appropriate gear and checking weather conditions.

Many trails, especially those closer to Inverness city, are accessible by public transport. For routes further afield, parking is often available at trailheads or nearby villages. We recommend checking the specific route details on komoot for information on parking facilities and public transport links for each hike, such as the Inverness village – Inverness Ridge loop.

The komoot community highly rates the family-friendly trails around Inverness, with an average score of 4.8 out of 5 stars from nearly 80 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the stunning natural beauty, the variety of landscapes, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable outings with children.

Yes, there are several easy trails perfect for toddlers and young children. The gentle paths around the Ness Islands within Inverness are ideal for short, flat strolls. Reelig Glen also offers a relatively short and enchanting walk through tall trees, suitable for little legs.

Inverness city itself offers numerous cafes and restaurants. For trails further out, many villages like Drumnadrochit (near Loch Ness) or Beauly have local eateries. Some popular trailheads, especially those connected to visitor centers, might also have facilities. It's a good idea to pack snacks and drinks, especially for longer routes like the Point Reyes Hostel – Orchid grove loop, and check local amenities beforehand.