Hiking the Angus Glens: Scotland’s Wild Panorama Near Kirriemuir

Kirriemuir moderate Difficulty

Explore the rugged terrain of the Angus Glens, a prime destination near Kirriemuir that offers sweeping views and authentic Scottish wilderness. This hiking route combines accessible trails with rewarding panoramas, ideal for those seeking both challenge and connection with nature.

Trail Tips

Wear Sturdy Footwear

The trail includes loose stones and soft earth, so sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good grip are essential to navigate safely.

Pack Adequate Water and Snacks

Though rivers run alongside parts of the route, carrying your own water and energy-rich snacks will keep you fueled, especially on longer legs without rest stops.

Check Weather Forecasts

The weather can shift rapidly in the glens. Planning your hike around stable conditions helps avoid sudden rain or wind that could complicate footing and visibility.

Start Early for Best Light

Morning light highlights the contours and colors of the landscape while avoiding afternoon crowds—the trail is popular but spacious enough to let you find your own pace.

Hiking the Angus Glens: Scotland’s Wild Panorama Near Kirriemuir

Stretching out from Kirriemuir into the rugged heart of Scotland, the Angus Glens offer a hiking experience both raw and rewarding. Each step brings you closer to landscapes fiercely themselves—heather-clad hills that roll out like ancient waves, rivers that dare you to follow their winding courses, and skies that open wide to expansive views. Approaching from the village of Kirriemuir, this journey unfolds as a practical yet thrilling escape into nature’s unvarnished beauty.

The classic route through Glen Clova, the largest of the Angus Glens, covers roughly 12 kilometers with an elevation gain around 450 meters. Trails vary in terrain—from gentle forested paths where the trees whisper overhead to challenging moorland stretches where the wind presses against your progress. The ground underfoot shifts between soft earth, loose stones, and patches of rough grass, so solid footwear with good grip is a must.

Water is more than just a sight here; it’s alive. Streams push forward with determined currents, encouraging you to move deeper into their valley sanctuaries. Every bend reveals a new vantage—sharp ridges cutting the horizon, farms shrinking into the distance, and on clear days, distant mountains reaching skyward. The openness of the landscape demands respect; weather can turn quickly, reminding hikers that nature here is untamed and commanding.

Timing your walk is equally important. Early morning offers calm air and softened light, ideal for catching the distant hills bathed in gold. By midday, the sun can draw out colors and highlight every contour of the glens. Late afternoon brings cooler shadows and occasional flurries of wildlife activity.

Preparation is straightforward but crucial. Layered clothing keeps you comfortable as temperatures shift, while ample water and energy-packed snacks sustain your drive. Maps or GPS ensure you stay on course, and checking weather forecasts helps avoid unpleasant surprises.

Whether you're walking for the panoramic views, the peaceful solitude, or the simple joy of being in Scotland’s wild landscapes, hiking the Angus Glens is a grounded adventure. It invites you to engage with nature's elemental force—not to conquer it, but to move alongside it with awareness and respect.

Recommended Gear

Waterproof Hiking Boots

Essential

Offers support and protection on wet, rocky, and uneven terrain common along the glens.

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Layered Clothing

Essential

Allows adjustment for rapidly changing weather conditions, ensuring comfort throughout the hike.

all specific

Map or GPS Device

Essential

Helps maintain orientation in the glens where trails can be faint or intersect with livestock paths.

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Insect Repellent

Reduces bites from midges and other insects that become active during warmer months.

summer specific

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the typical hike through the Angus Glens?

The main trail around Glen Clova spans approximately 12 kilometers and typically takes between 4 and 6 hours for an average hiker, depending on pace and breaks.

Are the trails suitable for beginners?

The trails are moderate in difficulty; beginners with a reasonable level of fitness and some hiking experience can complete them, but sturdy footwear and basic navigation skills are important.

Is there access to drinking water along the hike?

While several streams and rivers run through the glens, it’s advisable to carry your own water or have a filtration system if you plan to refill from natural sources.

What wildlife might I encounter on the trail?

Expect to see red deer, mountain hares, and a variety of bird species. In summer, midges can be abundant, so insect repellent is recommended.

Can I hike here year-round?

Yes, but conditions vary widely with season. Winter hikes require more preparation due to snow and ice, while spring and fall offer better footing but shorter daylight.

Are dogs allowed on the trails?

Dogs are permitted but must be kept on a leash, especially during lambing season and in areas where grazing livestock are present.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • "Craigmore Viewpoint offers quieter panoramas overlooking the glen, with fewer hikers visiting."
  • "Footpaths leading to the hidden Falls of Auchavon drop sharply, rewarding hikers with a secluded water feature."

Wildlife

  • "Look out for the elusive mountain hare, which changes coat color seasonally, blending with the moorland."
  • "Golden eagles occasionally soar overhead, a breathtaking encounter if the weather cooperates."

History

"The Angus Glens have deep roots in Scottish rural life, once serving as droving routes for cattle and sheep herding paths, with surrounding villages maintaining centuries-old crofting traditions."