East Highland Way
134 km / 83 miles
The East Highland Way was developed in 2007 by Kevin Langan, based on the theoretical concept of creating a new route through the highlands which links three of Scotlands already well established long distance trails. The name is derived from the fact that the route terminates in Aviemore at the eastern edge of Highland region. The projects conceptual strength relied on various strategic factors. Importantly, it forms the new link route between the northern end of the West Highland Way with the southern end of the Speyside Way, engaging with the Great Glen Way at its southern point in Fort William. This newly identified path network forms a new coast to coast route, between Loch Linnhe and the Spey Bay at Buckie. The route connects two towns already entrenched in mountain sports culture with Fort William being widely recognised as the outdoor capital of the UK, and Aviemore for its proximity to the monolithic Cairngorm plateau and ski centre.
The contrast in natural habitats along the route provides the East Highland Way with a distinct character. The journey passes seamlessly through enchanting broadleaf forests, loch-side trails & quiet mountain wilderness. It skirts unspoilt marshlands and also explores the last remnants of the ancient Caledonian Pine forests of Inshriach.
The route has been optimised to engage with accommodation where possible, making it more accessible for walkers of all abilities. The route explores some of Scotlands best historical attractions, passing close to Old Inverlochy Castle, the Pictish Fort Dun da Lamh, Ruthven Barracks and the stunning island castle of Loch an Eilein.
Strider News - December 2012 (Publication Update)
Details:
| Path Type: | Other Paths |
| Attributes: | Average Gradients; Forest/Woodland; Lake/Reservoir/Loch; Moorland; Mountain |
| Start: | NN105741 - Fort William, Highland  |
| Finish: | NH895128 - Aviemore, Highland |
| Web Sites: | East Highland Way |
Publications, Badges and Certificates:
| Guidebook: | East Highland Way: Fort William to Aviemore (Luath Press - 2012) |
Maps: |
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| Purchase Ordnance Survey Maps: | |
| OS Landranger: | 34, 35, 36, 41, 42 |
| OS Explorer: | 392, 393, 399, 400, 401, 402, 403 |
| OS Explorer Active: | 392, 393, 399, 400, 401, 402, 403 |
Walking Support Providers:
| Support Providers: | Self-Guided Walking Holidays (Glentrek Outdoor Activity) |
| Support Providers: | Self-Guided Walking Holidays (Contours Walking Holidays) |
| Support Providers: | Walking Holidays in Scotland (Explore Outdoors) |
Group Accommodation within 5 Km of this Path:
| Hostel Accommodation: | Bank Street Lodge, Fort William | < 1 Km |
| Hostel Accommodation: | Fort William Backpackers. Fort William | < 1 Km |
| Hostel Accommodation: | Calluna, Fort William | 1 Km |
Additional Images: |
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Connected Paths:
| Scotland's Great Trails: | Great Glen Way; Speyside Way; West Highland Way |
| Other Paths: | Badenoch Way; Famous Highland Drove Walk; Minigaig Pass - Kingussie to Blair Atholl |
| Anytime Challenges: | East Highland Trail; Five Degree West Challenge |
Downloads:
| GPS Exchange Format Route File: | East Highland Way GPX Exchange Format Route File | Login to Download (Members Only) |
| MemoryMap Route file: | East Highland Way Memory Map Route File | Login to Download (Members Only) |
| Tracklogs Route file: | East Highland Way Tracklogs Route File | Login to Download (Members Only) |
Route Profile:
| 126.5 Km (78.6 miles) 2,152 m (7,060 ft) ascent 479 m (1,572 ft) maximum height |
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