<p>This study explores the integration of local knowledge and scientific soil classification to advance sustainable agricultural practices in the highlands of Northwestern Ethiopia. The research provides insight into the valuable alignment of traditional observations with scientific analyses, leveraging the extensive, culturally embedded soil knowledge of local farmers. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative interviews with local farmers, focus group discussions, participatory transect walks, pedological, and quantitative soil physicochemical analyses. Farmers identify indicators such as soil color, texture, depth, and workability to classify soil fertility. For instance, “<i>Embirtam</i>” or “<i>Fat Meriet</i>” (meaning “fertile soil”) refers to dark, nutrient-rich soils that retain moisture, allow deep plowing, and yield high productivity. Conversely, soils classified as “<i>Denqoro</i>” or “<i>Chincha Meriet</i>” (indicating low fertility) are light-colored, shallow, and exhibit rapid drying, which lowers productivity in drier conditions. Quantitative assessments confirm correlations between these traditional indicators and scientific soil metrics. High organic carbon and clay content positively correlate with farmers’ soil quality index, while high sand content is associated with poorer fertility indicators. Soil color, a primary classification tool for farmers, aligns with the Munsell soil color chart and scientific soil groups, including Andosols and Vertisols, commonly associated with fertility and water retention. The study demonstrates that combining local insights with scientific analysis not only enhances soil classification but also improves management practices tailored to local environments. Integrating both knowledge systems within agricultural extension programs can foster resilient and context-specific farming strategies, essential for adapting to environmental challenges in the Ethiopian highlands.</p>