Tain Hill
COVID-19 update
All FLS visitor centres are currently closed. Walking and mountain bike trails remain open, as do most toilets and car parks, but do check below for local updates for closures.
We want to ensure your visit is an enjoyable and safe one.
Make sure you follow the Scottish Government’s FACTS advice – helping to protect yourself, your family and your local community, and follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code helping to keep Scotland beautiful.
Climb to Pulpit Rock for panoramic views across to Tarbet Nes
Tain Hill may sound daunting but most of the climbing has already been done by the time you arrive at the car park. What's left is a pleasant, steady ascent through sheltered pinewoods to a fabulous view over the Dornoch Firth. Willowy ferns, soft mosses and crisp heathers line the forest floor and small birds - crossbills and a variety of tits - call out through the trees.
Guide map to Forests of Ross and Cromarty (PDF 5.8MB)
Walking trails
Pulpit Rock Trail
A short climb through the twisted pines to Tain Hill, where Pulpit Rock provides a fine vantage point across Tarbet Ness and the Cromarty Firth.
Uneven gravel surface throughout. Some fairly steep slopes.
Allow ¾ hour
Facilities & access
The nearest public toilets are in Tain village.
Getting here
Tain Hill is two miles west of Tain in Easter Ross, just off the A9. From the Tain bypass you'll see brown signs to 'Tain Hill forest walk'. Turn off the A9 here and follow Quarry Road inland for 1 ¼ miles (2 km). The car park is at the end of the tarred road at grid reference NH 753 813.
Using SatNav?
IV19 1PX is the nearest postcode, halfway along Quarry Road.
Public transport
Tain is served by several trains and buses from Inverness and Thurso, and is about 2 miles (3.2 km) from the forest. See Traveline Scotland for details.
Get in touch
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