Running, walking, hiking
Explore your local canal for a leisurely stroll or pick up the pace and enjoy getting fit as you jog or run along the canal. Walking along a canal path can give you a completely different view on a place, even somewhere you know well. Enjoy well maintained paths and a traffic free atmosphere, ideal whether you choose to run or walk.
Caledonian Canal walks
A walk along the Caledonian Canal gives you the opportunity to experience all Scotland has to offer. It's not called Great Glen for nothing!
Crinan Canal walks
Walk or run along the Crinan Canal, the views are worth the effort as you cross from one side of the Mull of Kintyre to the other.
Forth & Clyde Canal and Union Canal walks
Use the towpaths as a great place for outdoor exercise, whilst staying away from the traffic.
Trails crossing multiple regions and canals
From undertaking an adventure along one of our nation's breathtaking long-distance routes, or paddling in the shadow of some of Scotland's natural and man-made and marvels, our incredible canal network has no shortage of wonders to explore. Start planning your next big adventure!
The John Muir Way
A coast-to-coast route across central Scotland from Helensburgh in the west to Dunbar in the east.
The Antonine Wall
There’s something for everyone along the line of the Antonine Wall – for Roman enthusiasts, keen walkers, cyclists, families and day trippers.
National Walking and Cycling Network
This ambitious project will grow Scotland’s network of paths, trails and canal towpaths from 6,000 to 8,000 kilometres by 2035.
The NWCN builds on existing path and trail networks such as Scotland’s Great Trails, the National Cycle Network and canal towpaths. The project will close key gaps, upgrade connecting routes, link to public transport and promote shared use of paths. Active travel and recreation will be easier and more accessible as a result – which means that we all win. It’s good for our health and well-being and for Scotland’s nature and landscapes. And as better routes attract more visitors and tourism, it’s good for local businesses and the wider economy too.
View the National Walking and Cycling Network – Scotland map of existing paths, trails and canals and proposed routes.
Watch the National Walking and Cycling Network video – to see how the new and improved NWCN will benefit you:
Canal Works & Updates
Occasionally maintenance work is required on our canals, bridges or towpaths. It is always a good idea to check our Canal Works & Updates before you make your journey.
Ongoing works