John Muir Way
One of Scotland's Great Trails and one of the UK's long distance walks, the John Muir Way offers walkers and cyclists a unique journey through Scotland’s landscapes, history and heritage. For more detailed information - maps and route descriptions, photos, updates and diversions, please visit Walk Highlands.
Ongoing management
The John Muir Trust recently confirmed a long-term commitment to lead on the management of the John Muir Way. As part of this transition, we are reviewing all aspects of the route, including physical signage, marketing and engagement opportunities, the website, and supporting materials such as passports and stamping stations.
We are considering new and more efficient ways of working and appreciate your patience while we consider all options.
Traversing central Scotland coast to coast in 134 miles, the route links Helensburgh in the west with Dunbar in the east (birthplace of America's 'father of national parks' John Muir).
The route symbolically passes through Scotland's own first national park, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs and offers a chance to connect with nature, taking advantage of the green spaces that link our coasts, villages, towns and even the capital city.
This is a journey of contrasts, taking in woodlands, beaches and canals, as well as rivers and parks through urban areas. You'll also discover Scotland's ancient Roman history, engineering heritage and several UNESCO World Heritage sites on the way. Whether you're from Scotland or are visiting for the first time, this mixture of landscape, culture and history will give you a view of Scotland not seen from any other perspective.
Good transport links and plentiful accommodation make it easy to plan a coast to coast expedition, or split it into sections to be completed over day trips or weekends.
Passport stamping stations
Look out for the John Muir Way stamping station venues along the route
See the list here
Completer certificates
Collect your printed certificate when you finish or fill out this online form and we'll email one to you
Order your certificate here
Route management
The John Muir Trust is not responsible for any issues on the ground. The route is managed by the ten Access Authorities along the Way. Running west to east, these are Argyll & Bute Council, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority, West Dunbartonshire Council, Stirling Council, East Dunbartonshire Council, North Lanarkshire Council, Falkirk Council, West Lothian Council, City of Edinburgh Council and East Lothian Council.
Please direct any route enquiries to the relevant access authority.
The future of the John Muir Way
The John Muir Trust is currently exploring future governance options for the John Muir Way and we hope to move to a more streamlined service once we have developed a viable financial plan to ensure sustainability of service.
The original johnmuirway.org website is no longer available. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause you. Please visit Walk Highlands for route details.
