If you’re searching for the best hills in Scotland for running, look no further. While hill running might not appeal to everyone, those who enjoy the challenge of jelly legs and burning lungs will appreciate this carefully selected list of the top five hills, curated by the authors of Wild Running.

Starting from Flotterstone, a scenic eight-mile loop traverses the Pentland Hills, ascending first to Cartheny Hill, which hosts a popular local hill race. The route continues to Scald Law, the highest peak in the range at 579 meters. Runners can expect a descent on grassy trails leading down to Loganlea Reservoir, with the final stretch tracing the Logan Burn along its dramatic glen, concluding at Glencorse Reservoir.

Ben Ledi, the tallest peak in the central Trossachs, stands at 879 meters above Loch Lubnaig and the town of Callander. Runners can embark on an 11-mile out-and-back path that features well-maintained trails. This route harmoniously winds through the forested lower slopes of the mountain, extending up a long, rising ridge to the summit. On clear days, the stunning views encompass the entire length of the loch to Strathyre, and across Callander to Stirling Castle, with the Pentlands seen in the distance.

3. Ben Cleuch, Ochils

The Ochil Hills, characterized by their steep sides and rounded peaks, rise north of the Forth Valley near Stirling, presenting a rewarding six-mile run. The journey begins in Tillicoultry and ascends rapidly up Mill Glen, ultimately gaining the long ridge to Ben Ever, which rises to 622 meters. From this vantage point, the route continues to the summit of Ben Cleuch, offering excellent views before following a well-defined trail downhill past a series of stunning waterfalls.

4. Green Lowther, Southern Uplands

In the Southern Uplands, the Lowther Hills provide a beautiful backdrop for an exhilarating 11.5-mile loop. The starting point is Wanlockhead, from where the route ascends the gentle slopes of Whiteside to reach Lowther Hill at 725 meters. It then crosses the broad ridge to the summit of Green Lowther, the highest peak in the range at 732 meters. After this, runners can tackle three additional peaks: Dungrain Law, Dun Law, and Glen Ea’s Hill, followed by a downhill section back to the starting point.

5. Glen Esk, Angus

The longest and most easterly glen in Angus, Glen Esk features Mount Keen at its furthest point, Scotland’s most easterly Munro. For an invigorating ten-mile run, take the path down the glen alongside Loch Lee, where you’ll climb steeply past several waterfalls, ultimately reaching the expansive mountainside at Cairn Lick. Experience an exhilarating zigzag descent to the valley floor, then return along the loch — a perfect option for a refreshing dip on a warm day.