Glen Canisp Hike

Hike overview

The Glencanisp hike is a pleasant loop that starts in the charming fishing village of Lochinver, located in the northwestern Highlands of Scotland. The route begins with a forest walk alongside the River Inver, featuring bubbling waterfalls and salmon fishing piers. Then, it crosses more rugged moorland to Glencanisp Lodge, an elegant Victorian hunting lodge dating from 1850.

The hike continues alongside Loch Druim Suardalain, offering spectacular views of Suilven, one of Scotland's most iconic mountains. Its distinctive silhouette dominates the Assynt landscape.

Difficulties and description of the hike

This route does not present any technical challenges and is suitable for most hikers. The trail is generally well-maintained, though it can be slightly less visible in places.

The main drawback of this route is the return leg. After passing Glencanisp Lodge, you must walk along the paved road for about two kilometers to reach Lochinver, which can seem monotonous after being immersed in nature.

What you'll love

  • The magnificent walk alongside the River Inver through a mixed forest with numerous waterfalls and picturesque salmon fishing piers.
  • The exceptional view of Suilven from the shores of Loch Druim Suardalain: This classic Highland view reveals the "sugar loaf" silhouette of this iconic mountain.

Hike technical sheet

Activity: Hiking
Difficulty: EasyiDifficulty levels explained here:
➡️ Hiking parameters
Average duration: 3 hiFind out how we calculate the duration here:
➡️ Hiking parameters
Length: 7.8 km
Type of route: Loop
Elevation gain: 190 m
Maximum altitude: 130 m
Vertiginous: NoiVertiginous levels explained here:
➡️ Hiking parameters
Marked: No
Popularity: Low
Region: Sutherland
Start point: 58.15137, -5.24093

Map and elevation profile of the hike

Glen Canisp Hike