New Trust calls for public support to protect Scotland’s most iconic trail path.
The West Highland Way marks its 45th anniversary with a rallying call to the thousands who walk, run and cycle the 96-mile route each year: support is urgently needed to ensure the route remains open for future generations. More than 45,000 people have once again completed the West Highland Way this year.
The trail is a global hiking icon, recognised by National Geographic as one of the world’s top 20 trails and contributing an estimated £20 million annually to Scotland’s rural economy. A newly established charity – the West Highland Way Trust – is urging the public to back its vital work to raise funds to support projects which maintain and protect the path, bridges, steps and drainage systems that are coming under increasing strain from climate change.
The enduring appeal of the West Highland Way
Jock MacGillivary, Senior Long-Distance Routes Officer with The Highland Council, has worked on the West Highland Way for more than 36 years and says the effect of the change in climate over recent years has been striking: “The Long-Distance Route Team are on the path daily, carrying out inspections, maintenance patrols and repairs. We have always strived to carry out any work in a fashion that is effective but discreet. What has become evident over the last three decades is that the rainfall has become more intense, overwhelming drains and culverts that previously coped and threatening vital structures such as bridges. What has been especially noticeable, is that sections of the route, historically unaffected by the winter storms, are now being ravaged during these periods. Our priority has always been to keep the West Highland Way safe and open for walkers, despite the weather which is unrelenting”
Beneath walkers’ boots lies a network of hand-built drains, steps and stream crossings designed to channel water and stabilise fragile ground. Once subtle and largely unseen, these defences are now being tested as never before. Without continued investment, key sections risk becoming impassable. That is why the West Highland Way Trust was established earlier this year — to fund the essential, often invisible work carried out by the five Access Authorities, communities and other stakeholders that keep the route safe, sustainable and spectacular.
Robert Marshall completed his 100th complete West Highland Way recently, using his milestone walk to raise awareness and funds for the new Trust. Carol Matthews, a trustee of the West Highland Way Trust, said: “Robert’s achievement showed the depth of connection people feel for this trail. His inspiring walk encouraged tremendous support, with many walkers keen to give back in recognition of their own experiences. This 45th anniversary underlines the enduring appeal of the West Highland Way — and it is vital we harness that affection to raise the funds needed to protect it for today’s users and future generations.”
The Trust is calling on all supporters to help secure the path’s future through donations at: www.westhighlandwaytrust.org.
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