New to running? Try our 5 best routes for beginners in Inverness and the Highlands

By Ana Da Silva

July 2 2022, 6:00 am

This scenic path along the Caledonian Canal is one of our best running routes for beginners in the highlands. Picture by Sandy McCook

Want to give running a go but aren’t sure where to start? We’ve collected some of the best routes for beginners in Inverness and the Highlands.

Getting started on your own can be intimidating, so why we’ve consulted some of the Press & Journal and Evening Express’s resident runners for their top picks.

Whether it’s a scenic route through woodland or a leisurely tour of historic destinations, we have you covered.

Daviot’s wild trail

Daviot otherwise known as Bogbain Wood, is a good route for beginners to running.

Pull in at the side of the A9 south of Inverness and enjoy the challenge of Daviot’s wild trail.

The track is mostly dirt with a few stony sections, best enjoyed in dry conditions as it can get a bit mucky underfoot when wet.

The trail begins with a slight incline – there’s an elevation gain of about 200ft across the 5k route – but you’re rewarded handsomely for your toil as you’re treated to some outstanding views of the Moray Firth and the Black Isle on your way down.

Expect a lot of dogs and keep your eyes peeled for the occasional mountain bike.

River Ness

This beginners' running route will have you crossing over Infirmary Bridge in Inverness. Picture by Jason Hedges — This route will have you crossing over Infirmary Bridge in Inverness. Picture by Jason Hedges

Not only is this route relatively flat, it’s also one of the most scenic on our list.

Through the Ness Islands from Crown is a 5k stretch taking in most of the city’s finest tourist hotspots.

Dochgarroch to Holm Mills Bridge

This route will take you along the Caledonian Canal - with plenty options for pit-stops, it's one of the best running routes for beginners in the highlands. — This route will take you along the Caledonian Canal – with plenty options for pit-stops.

Running there and back means you’ll experience a lovely 10k route along the Caledonian Canal.

There’s always the optional stop at the halfway point at Dochgarroch’s beautiful An Talla cafe.

Distributor Road

Why not try running along the side of Sir Walter Scott Drive, known locally as the Distributor Road.

Start from Inshes Retail Park at the top, and finish at the Dores Tesco at the bottom.

You do have to cross a few roads, but there will be long stretches of wide pavement.

Castle Heather Park

Castle Heather offers a great jumping-off point for getting into the rhythm of running.

One loop of this route should only take around 20 minutes to complete – so you’ll never be too far away from where you started.

And if you’ve still got energy left after, why not burn it with a quick shot on the swings…?