Epic Peaks, Zero Car Needed
You don’t need a car to go big in the Scottish hills. Thanks to one of the most scenic rail networks in Europe, you can get within striking distance of some of the country’s best mountains — no petrol, parking faff or road rage required.
This guide features Scotland’s most accessible summits by train — from crowd-pleasers like Ben Lomond to wild Highland giants only reachable from a single-track platform in the middle of nowhere.
Whether you’re a city-based peak bagger, planning a low-carbon adventure, or just want the freedom to explore without driving, this one’s for you.
1. Ben Lomond – Loch Lomond & The Trossachs
- Nearest Station: Balloch
- Access Notes: Train to Balloch + bus or ferry to Rowardennan
- Distance & Time: ~12km return, 4.5–5.5 hours
- Why it’s worth it: Scotland’s most southerly Munro, with incredible views across Loch Lomond
- Top Tip: Catch the early ferry across the loch for a more scenic approach — summer only
2. The Cobbler (Ben Arthur) – Arrochar Alps
- Nearest Station: Arrochar & Tarbet
- Access Notes: Trailhead just over 1km from the station
- Distance & Time: ~11km return, 4–5 hours
- Why it’s worth it: One of Scotland’s best small mountains — dramatic summit tors and a proper ridge feel
- Top Tip: Train journeys here are stunning — sit on the west side for loch views
3. Ben Nevis – Lochaber
- Nearest Station: Fort William
- Access Notes: Walkable from station (about 2km to Glen Nevis Visitor Centre)
- Distance & Time: ~16km return, 6–8 hours
- Why it’s worth it: It’s the UK’s highest mountain — need we say more?
- Top Tip: Book an off-peak ScotRail ticket and spend the night — Fort William’s a brilliant base
4. Carn Dearg – Corrour
- Nearest Station: Corrour
- Access Notes: Trail starts right from the station
- Distance & Time: ~14km loop, 5–6 hours
- Why it’s worth it: Wild, remote feel — no roads, no noise, just wide skies and loch views
- Top Tip: Stay the night at Corrour Station House for a proper off-grid escape
5. Beinn Dorain – Bridge of Orchy
- Nearest Station: Bridge of Orchy
- Access Notes: Trailhead ~500m from the station
- Distance & Time: ~11km return, 4.5–6 hours
- Why it’s worth it: Classic pyramid-shaped Munro visible from the A82 — more rewarding than it looks from the road
- Top Tip: Combine with nearby Beinn an Dòthaidh for a 2-Munro day
6. Arthur’s Seat – Edinburgh
- Nearest Station: Edinburgh Waverley
- Access Notes: Walk from station (~1.5km)
- Distance & Time: ~5km loop, 1.5–2 hours
- Why it’s worth it: It’s not a Munro — but it’s a summit, and a very dramatic one for a city walk
- Top Tip: Ideal if you’re visiting Scotland and want a quick hit of hillwalking energy
7. Ben Venue – Loch Katrine
- Nearest Station: Stirling (train) + bus to Aberfoyle
- Access Notes: Short taxi or long walk from Aberfoyle
- Distance & Time: ~13km return, 5–6 hours
- Why it’s worth it: Sharp ridges, loch views, and a quieter corner of the Trossachs
- Top Tip: Time your trip for midweek — the trails are blissfully peaceful
8. Ben Alder (with overnight stay) – Corrour
- Nearest Station: Corrour
- Access Notes: Long walk from station; best done with a wild camp or stay at Culra bothy (currently closed)
- Distance & Time: ~32km return, 2-day trip
- Why it’s worth it: One of the most remote Munros in Scotland — absolutely majestic
- Top Tip: Plan a weekend loop and take in Beinn Bheòil as well
Final Thoughts
Car-free hiking in Scotland? Totally doable. From big-name Munros to hidden ridges, Scotland’s railways open the door to some truly special walks — and you don’t need to drive a mile to reach them.
Photo by Mike Newbry on Unsplash
