New day walking routes in central Scotland

John Muir Way Launches New Walking and Cycling Day Trip Routes

If you’re seeking inspiration for outdoor activities the John Muir Way may have the answer. A selection of one-day and half-day routes has been created across central Scotland, to be explored on foot or by bike.

Each is based around a part of the longer John Muir Way coast to coast trail and is designed to offer a micro-adventure in a local area, on a route that will get you back to your starting point. Using the John Muir Way and local paths, you’ll find everything from big loops to short strolls, taking in castles, beaches and often the option of public transport home for tired legs.

The day trips have all been graded according to difficulty and distances range from a family-friendly 4.5 mile walk up to a 27 mile cycle. You’ll find maps and a wealth of information on recommended places to visit on each route on the John Muir Way website at www.johnmuirway.org/day-trips

To celebrate the launch of the Day Trips and provide a little extra incentive to get out exploring, there will be ‘treasure’ of John Muir Way merchandise – including water bottles, caps, badges and route passports – stashed at a selection of attractions, cafes and other businesses along the route. Goodies can be claimed by visitors doing any John Muir Way Day Trip or coast-to-coast route section.

To claim a prize, walkers and cyclists just need to take a photo of themselves next to a John Muir Way signpost or waymarker and show it at one of the participating treasure locations. Each location has prizes for the first ten treasure hunters, so there are plenty of chances to claim a souvenir of your trip. 

For more information on how to take part, visit www.johnmuirway.org/treasure

Support for John Muir Way Day Trips

The development of these day trips was boosted by funding from several sources, including VisitScotland and the ‘Scotland Loves Local’ Fund administered by Scotland’s Towns Partnership.

Scotland’s Town’s Partnership Chief Officer Phil Prentice said: “These day trips along the John Muir Way sound brilliant – with something for everyone. I am delighted that we have been able to support them through the Scotland Loves Local Fund.

“They are a great example of ways in which people are being encouraged to embrace and enjoy our brilliant countryside, supporting all kinds of businesses and attractions as they do. It’s a boost for our health, local communities and the economy.”

Neil Christison, VisitScotland Regional Director, said: “With so many people staying in the UK this year there has never been a better time to appreciate all the wonderful locations and attractions we have on our doorstep. Whether it’s discovering somewhere new or experiencing an old favourite in a completely new way, now is your time to enjoy the unique experiences that a holiday in Scotland offers.

“These new one day and half day routes on the John Muir Way provide a great option for making the most out of holidays at (or close to) home in a responsible and sustainable manner.”

There are John Muir Way prizes to be claimed at locations across the route The John Muir Way Day Trips launch has been funded by the Scottish Government ‘Scotland Loves Local’ Fund administered by Scotland’s Towns Partnership; by the Scottish Government and the European Community through the LEADER 2014–2020 Programme; and by the VisitScotland Sector and Destination Operational and Market Readiness Fund.

The John Muir Way: Running between Helensburgh and Dunbar, The John Muir Way is one of Scotland’s Great Trails. The 134-mile coast to coast route was launched in 2014 to commemorate the Dunbar-born man who became known as the ‘Father of the National Parks’ in America. The route can be enjoyed on foot or by bike and provides the perfect opportunity to follow in Muir’s footsteps, visiting his birthplace in the east and Scotland’s first national park in the west. The route also takes in some of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks, coastlines and the capital city Edinburgh. The route is suitable for all ages and abilities, whether enjoyed in day trips or as a complete coast-to-coast challenge. For further information about the John Muir Way, please visit www.johnmuirway.org. You can also follow the John Muir Way on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. The Green Action Trust: The John Muir Way is managed by the Green Action Trust, one of Scotland’s leading environmental charities. The Green Action Trust is the trusted delivery partner focused on environmental and regeneration outcomes for Scotland. We plan, collaborate and deliver positive action across the country to achieve Scotland’s climate change ambitions. We turn ideas into tangible change to build more sustainable communities and a greener country. For more information, visit https://greenactiontrust.org