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Daily Record
2 days ago
- Daily Record
Top spots for ridge walking in Scotland ranked as iconic 9.7 km route takes top spot
With the popularity of Ridge walking booming in the UK, experts at Blacks have highlighted the top 10 scenic ridge hikes in Scotland. Ridge walking is surging in popularity across the UK, with searches for ridge walks rising by 180 per cent in the past year. This form of hiking, which follows the crest or spine of a mountain or hill, offers walkers panoramic views on both sides and provides an excellent way to boost fitness while soaking up some of the country's most stunning scenery. Outdoor adventure experts at Blacks have analysed factors such as search popularity and weather to identify the top 10 must-visit ridge walks in Scotland. At the top of the list is Aonach Eagach in the Scottish Highlands. Stretching 9.7 kilometres, the trail's name translates from Scots Gaelic as 'Notched Ridge' and crosses several Munros. While the route is challenging and involves some scrambling, it rewards hikers with breathtaking views across Glen Coe, eastwards to the Blackwater Reservoir, and north towards the Mamores and Ben Nevis. Coming in second is Forcan Ridge, a circular trail that features over 1,000 metres of elevation gain. Walkers are treated to sweeping views of Scottish flora and fauna along the way. Despite being searched more than 12,000 times in the past year, reviewers report that the path rarely feels crowded. Third place goes to Carn Mor Dearg Arête, another Scottish Highlands favourite. The route, known for its forests, rivers, and vistas of Ben Nevis, boasts clear skies around 40 per cent of the time, offering walkers reliable visibility for their trek. Calum Jones, an author and outdoor enthusiast at Blacks, highlighted the appeal of ridge walking while stressing the importance of preparation. 'Ridge walks can be incredibly rewarding, often revealing views that go on as far as the eye can see at the top of peaks, but it is extremely important to make sure you are well prepared before starting any hike,' he said. 'Ridge walks come in very different levels of difficulty: from well-paved, relaxed hiking trails that don't require belaying, to high-grade scrambles. "This makes route planning extremely important. If you have no experience with harnesses, carabiners or ropes, it is best to choose an easy ridge walk that is well paved,' Jones added. Even on simpler routes, preparation is key. 'Durable hiking shoes with strong ankle support and good grip will be essential for any rocky or uneven terrain, while walking poles can provide extra stability and reduce the strain on your joints, which is especially important for any steeper ascents or descents. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. "If you are not sure that you have the correct equipment for the difficulty and conditions of the climb, you should not attempt it,' he warned. Jones also emphasised the need to prepare for Scotland's unpredictable weather. 'Ridge walks can be windy, as the path is more exposed. As you climb higher, wind speeds tend to increase, making it cooler. "Wearing base layers allows you to regulate body temperature and manage moisture, keeping you comfortable during your trek. "Clear visibility conditions are preferable for ridge walking and an important consideration for beginners. You should also pack a lightweight waterproof jacket in case of any wet weather,' he said. Ridge walk Area Country Google searches (July 2024 - June 2025) Average % of time with clearer skies Ridge walk score /10 1 Aonach Eagach Highlands Scotland 77,000 40% 8.05 2 Forcan Ridge Highlands Scotland 12,810 40% 5.78 3 Carn Mor Dearg Arête Highlands Scotland 7,320 40% 5.55 4 Devil's Ridge Highlands Scotland 5,500 40% 5.32 4 An Teallach Dundonnell Scotland 65,900 33% 5.32 6 Cuillin Ridge Isle of Skye Scotland 30,200 37% 4.86 7 Trotternish Ridge Isle of Skye Scotland 20,540 37%
North Wales Live
10-08-2025
- North Wales Live
North Wales comes out top when it comes to 'nerves of steel' ridge walks in UK
Walkers heading to North Wales can take on a variety of terrain - from gentle countryside and beach strolls to nerve jangling scrambles. In recent years ridge walking has become increasingly popular in the UK, with searches for ridge walks rising 180% in the past year. The hike, which usually involves following the crest or spine of a mountain or hill, offering panoramic views on either side, is a great way to increase fitness and see great sights. The outdoor adventure experts at Blacks have analysed factors such as search popularity and weather to name the top 10 must-visit locations for a ridge walk in the UK(full list below). There is perhaps no surprise to see the top two positions filled by spots in Eryri (Snowdonia). One has become famous on social media with daily videos of people taking on the challenge. This has seen Crib Goch, part of the Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) range - named the best ridge walk in the UK. It involves some grade 1 scrambling as you head up the Crib Goch summit and has steep, narrow and rocky sections, so it is important to take the correct hiking gear and only take part if you are a confident scrambler. Another Eryri hike is Tryfan's North Ridge, which takes second place. In the past year, the 5.6km circular trail has been searched for over 32,000 times, and has received a 4.7 star rating on Alltrails. Reviewers praise stunning views, enjoyable scrambles, and a challenging experience. Once again experience, good equipment and a head for heights are all vital. Calum Jones, author and outdoor enthusiast at Blacks, said: 'Ridge walks can be incredibly rewarding, often revealing views that go on as far as the eye can see at the top of peaks, but it is extremely important to make sure you are well prepared before starting any hike. Sign up for the North Wales Live newsletter sent twice daily to your inbox 'Ridge walks come in very different levels of difficulty: From well-paved, relaxed hiking trails that don't require belaying, to high-grade scrambles. This makes route planning extremely important. If you have no experience with harnesses, carabiners or ropes, it is best to choose an easy ridge walk that is well paved. 'Even if your route looks to be simple, it is important to pack correctly to ensure that you are prepared for any situations you may encounter. Durable hiking shoes with strong ankle support and good grip will be essential for any rocky or uneven terrain, while walking poles can provide extra stability and reduce the strain on your joints, which is especially important for any steeper ascents or descents. If you are not sure that you have the correct equipment for the difficulty and conditions of the climb, you should not attempt it. 'You should also prepare for any weather conditions. Ridge walks can be windy, as the path is more exposed to the wind. As you climb higher, wind speeds tend to increase, making it cooler. Wearing base layers allows you to regulate body temperature and manage moisture, keeping you comfortable during your trek. Clear visibility conditions are preferable for ridge walking and an important consideration for beginners. You should also pack a lightweight waterproof jacket in case of any wet weather.' The 10 best ridge walks in the UK Rank Ridge walk Area Country Google searches (July 2024 - June 2025) Average % of time with clearer skies Ridge walk score /10 1 Crib Goch Snowdonia (Eryri) Wales 399,300 41% 9.41 2 Tryfan North Ridge Snowdonia (Eryri) Wales 32,800 41% 8.28 3 Aonach Eagach Highlands Scotland 77,000 40% 8.05 4 Crook Peak Walk Somerset England 2,820 43% 7.59 5 Striding Edge Lake District England 171,100 39% 7.14 5 Bristly Ridge Snowdonia (Eryri) Wales 14,080 41% 7.14 7 Malvern Ridge walk Worcestershire England 500 41% 6.69 8 Sharp Edge Lake District England 60,300 39% 6.46 9 Forcan Ridge Highlands Scotland 12,810 40% 5.78 10 Carn Mor Dearg Arête Highlands Scotland 7,320 40% 5.55
