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Munro bagging in Scotland: a beginner’s journey with the best guidebook
Whether it was that snowy New Year trip into Glen Affric or youthful hikes through Glen Coe, the Cairngorms, Torridon and Skye –my love for the Scottish mountains has deep roots. I remember turning back on some climbs due to avalanche risk, and while I’ve had many memorable trips since, I can’t always say for certain which Munros I summited back then.
My Munro-bagging progress
So far, I’ve bagged eighteen confirmed Munros from the full list of 282. That may not sound like many –but I’m on the journey, and that’s what counts. While I’ve recently completed the Ring of Steall and embarked on a standout Knoydart expedition, it’s the earlier ascents that remain unclear. If I didn’t record it, I won’t claim it!
In addition to Munros, I’m working toward Wainwright bagging– a goal I’m closer to finishing –and I love the concept of Scottish Island Bagging (though I’m actually ticking off more Irish islands at the moment).
Bagging lists like these push you to explore further, take new routes, and seek out unexpected adventures. But let’s be honest –climbing 282 Munros could take most of my weekends. Luckily, I have a plan.
Planning to bag more Munros: my strategy
1. Log your walks on Walkhighlands
Step one is simple: sign up for a Walkhighlands account. The site allows you to log every ascent, track your progress, and discover recommended routes. It's an essential companion for any aspiring Munroist.
2. Upgrade your gear and skills
While I don’t believe in climbing just for the tick –regardless of the weather –having the right gear and navigation skills makes success safer and more enjoyable. Good kit and a map-reading refresh are next on my list.
3. Plan smarter routes
Knowing which Munros can be combined, where to park, stay, eat, and finding GPX files for reliable routes saves serious time. All this knowledge can be overwhelming to gather –unless you have the right guide.
Why Peak Bagging Munros is the ultimate guidebook
Enter Peak Bagging Munros by Nicola Hardy– a seasoned hillwalker, INOV8 ambassador, and Munro completer. This book is your ultimate companion for strategic Munro bagging.
What makes it special?
- 141 Munros covered in Volume 1 (Volume 2 due in 2026/27)
- Walks include Ben Nevis, Ben Alder, Ben Lawers, Ben Lomond, Ben Vorlich and more
- Each route re-walked by the author for up-to-date accuracy
- Includes GPX downloads, clear directions and What3Words start points
- Graded routes (1 to 5) for difficulty, navigation, and terrain
- 10 Highland Hubs to base trips around (e.g. Fort William, Glencoe, Braemar)
- Winter ascent guidance, wild camping tips and bothy suggestions
Whether you’re planning a multi-peak epic or a solo hike on a maintained path, the book lets you filter routes by terrain, length, complexity and navigation challenge. That flexibility makes it perfect for everyone from newcomers to seasoned hikers.
Top features at a glance
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Detailed directions with start points in GPS, grid ref, and What3Words -
Wild camping & bothy info -
Public transport access and parking suggestions -
Grades for navigation difficulty, distance, and terrain
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Ideal for solo hikers or group walking weekends
Ready to start your Munro journey?
If you're looking to bag 100 Munros –or all 282 –start by:
- Creating a Walkhighlands account
- Getting Nicola Hardy’s Peak Bagging Munros
- Testing and upgrading your hillwalking gear
- Practicing navigation and hill fitness
Also –don’t forget the importance of nutrition and recovery. Good food can make a big difference on a tough day in the hills. Try our books:
- Cook Out – for great hill meals
- More Fuel You and Fuel for Thought – to fuel training and endurance
Tag us in your adventures!
We love seeing our books put to the test on real-world hikes. Whether you’re crossing ridgelines in Glencoe or enjoying a sunset summit in Skye, tag us on social media and share your story.
Let’s bag some Munros. 
Written by Jon Barton the founder of Vertebrate Publishing. Jon has a lifetime’s experience of running, climbing and walking on the mountains of the UK.
