The top winter walks in the UK for people to embark on during the colder months as new research named John Muir Way the highest placing Scottish location on the list.
The trail is a coast-to-coast route that runs 134 miles across central Scotland, from Helensburgh to Dunbar. The latter is the birthplace of influential Scottish-American naturalist John Muir, which is where the walk got its name.
Muir moved to the United States of America when he was a child and later became an early advocate for the preservation of wilderness in the country. It was through this work that he came to be known as the 'Father of the National Parks'.
The trail follows Muir's steps in reverse, from Helensburgh on the west coast where he set sail for the US back to his hometown in East Lothian. While it can be completed in either direction, Muir's birthplace marks a fitting final destination.
John Muir Way opened in 2014 and includes a diverse selection of scenery, showcasing the best of Scotland's natural beauty. Those walking the trail will traverse farmlands, woodlands, beaches, and clifftops.
In honour of its namesake, the route passes through Scotland's first national park: Loch Lomond & The Trossachs. While Loch Lomond is undeniably stunning all year round, during the winter it has a dramatic majesty that needs to be seen to be believed.
Other highlights include Blackness Castle, which has been used as a filming location for Outlander, and the Falkirk Wheel — the only rotating boat lift in the world.
Given its significant length, John Muir Way can be completed either in various short sections or as one 134-mile journey. Fortunately, transport links throughout the trail are plentiful, making it suitable for first-time or inexperienced hikers.
More than 250,000 people walk the path every year, around 5,500 of which complete the entire route. It can be traversed either on foot or by bicycle.
More information can be found on the John Muir Way website.
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