Walks from Helmsdale
Sutherland · Scotland
MapBeautiful walks starting or ending at Helmsdale Station.
Alternatively, view walks you can reach directly from Helmsdale by train.
Helmsdale to Brora
Part of the John O'Groats Trail.
Warnings: Long sections of A road with no coastal path.
Walk details: Railwalks.
Kinbrace to Helmsdale
Golspie to Helmsdale
Glorious views of Dunrobin Castle from the shore. A long coastal route following the John o'Groats Trail, mostly on paths: clifftop and shore walking, grass and beach (with a choice of which to use), plus a horrible short scramble between the railway fence and large boulders and a steep climb to Portgower. Possible river crossings that may be impassable in spate. Follows the John o'Groats Trail (Golspie to Brora and Brora to Helmsdale); see jogt.org.uk for diversions. Plentiful wildlife including Arctic terns and seals; the walk can be split at Brora.
Coastal: almost all along the coast.
Time: 8h–16h
Warnings: A short stretch is squeezed between the railway fence and large boulders, requiring a slow, treacherous scramble. River crossings (e.g. the Loth Burn) may be difficult in spate; an inland diversion to the A9 is available. Best split over two days.
Walk details: Slow Ways.