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Distance
~134 miles / 215 km
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Duration
7–10 days
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Route
Helensburgh → Dunbar
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Difficulty
Easy to Moderate
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Best Season
April – May
Let us take the weight off your shoulders.
Walking the John Muir Way should be about enjoying Scotland’s changing landscapes — not carrying a heavy backpack.
- Walk with a light daypack only (water, snacks, waterproof layers).
- No tents or heavy gear — luggage is transferred between accommodations.
- Flexible, personal itineraries built around your pace and route sections.
Baggage Transfer Rules
Max 20kg per bag • Ready by 9am • Delivered by 4pm
Walk with a Light Daypack
Carry only what you need for the day while enjoying the John Muir Way.
Daily Baggage Transfers
Your luggage is safely transferred between overnight stops each day.
Comfortable, Stress-Free Walking
Walk without heavy bags and enjoy the route at a relaxed pace.
Reliable Local Support
Friendly support is available before and during your walk.
Walk the John Muir Way
The John Muir Way is a spectacular long-distance walking and cycling route stretching coast to coast across central Scotland. Covering approximately 134 miles, the route runs from Helensburgh on the west coast to Dunbar on the east coast, linking lochside paths, historic towns, canal towpaths, countryside, and coastal trails.
Perfect for a self-guided, multi-day walking holiday, the John Muir Way offers varied yet accessible terrain, making it ideal for walkers seeking a balanced journey of nature, culture, and coastline — with excellent transport links and accommodation options throughout.
Route Stops
- 1 Helensburgh (Start)
- 2 Balloch
- 3 Strathblane
- 4 Kilsyth
- 5 Falkirk
- 6 Linlithgow
- 7 South Queensferry
- 8 Edinburgh
- 9 Aberlady
- 10 North Berwick
- 11 Dunbar (Finish)
Helensburgh
Gateway to the John Muir Way
The John Muir Way begins in the coastal town of Helensburgh, following easy paths and quiet streets. It offers a gentle introduction before heading into open countryside.
ExploreHelensburgh is the official starting point of the John Muir Way and offers excellent rail links, shops, and accommodation for a relaxed start.
~9 miles / 14 km
Interactive Route
John Muir Way Route Map
Tap each stop to see distances, terrain & accommodation zones.
Packages & Journeys
Your Next Unforgettable Adventure
Discover breathtaking landscapes and curated experiences crafted for the modern explorer.
The 2026 season runs from 22 March to 19 October.
offering self-guided walking and cycling holidays.
Want something different?
We design custom walking & cycling adventures across the Scotland — built around your pace, preferences, and dates.
Reliable Baggage Transfers Along the John Muir Way
Enjoy the John Muir Way without the burden of carrying heavy luggage. Our reliable baggage transfer service moves your bags between accommodations so you can focus on the walking experience.
We work with trusted local drivers who understand the route and its logistics. Your luggage is handled with care and delivered on time to your next stop.
Whether you’re walking the full route or just a section, our service makes the John Muir Way more comfortable and enjoyable.
Day-by-Day Walking Plan
Select your preferred itinerary to see what each day has in store.
Select a package above to see your detailed itinerary
Debbie 10 day John Muir Way
A more relaxed, immersive experience
- Start your journey in Helensburgh, following well-marked pavements, gravel tracks, and quiet streets as you leave the town.
- The route gradually climbs before rewarding you with your first views of Loch Lomond, Scotland’s largest freshwater loch.
- Finish the day in Balloch, located on the southern shores of the loch and known as the gateway to Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park.
- Leave Balloch behind and head east through scenic countryside and woodlands.
- The route includes some moderate ascents and quieter rural sections.
- Arrive in the village of Strathblane, set at the foot of the Campsie Fells.
- Walk out of Strathblane and pass through Mugdock Country Park, with woodland trails and historic features.
- Continue through peaceful countryside with views of the Campsie Fells.
- End the day in the small town of Kilsyth.
- Follow well-maintained canal paths, making for an easy and relaxed walking day.
- Pass the iconic Falkirk Wheel, a highlight of the route.
- Arrive in Falkirk, rich in Roman and industrial history.
- Walk through a mix of town paths, parkland, and open countryside.
- The route remains mostly flat and easy underfoot.
- Finish in Linlithgow, home to the historic Linlithgow Palace beside the loch.
- Continue east through countryside and urban sections.
- As you near the coast, enjoy spectacular views of the Forth Rail and Road Bridges.
- End the day in South Queensferry, a historic waterfront town.
- Follow coastal paths with views across the Firth of Forth.
- Cross the Forth Road Bridge and continue toward the city.
- Finish the day in Edinburgh, with views of Edinburgh Castle.
- Leave Edinburgh via coastal paths, passing Portobello Beach.
- Enjoy wide sea views along the Firth of Forth.
- Finish in Aberlady, near the Aberlady Bay Nature Reserve.
- Walk along sandy beaches and coastal trails.
- Pass Yellowcraig Beach with views toward the iconic Bass Rock.
- Arrive in the seaside town of North Berwick.
- Follow the coastline past beaches, cliffs, and open countryside.
- Enjoy views of the East Lothian coast and the ruins of Tantallon Castle.
- Finish the John Muir Way in the historic harbour town of Dunbar.
About Highland transfers
Why Travellers
Trust Highland Transfers
We offer carefully curated destinations and tours that capture
the true essence of location, ensuring you experience.
12K+
Bags moved every season
Experts of Scotlands Trails
Carbon-Conscious Company
Hundreds of 5-star Reviews
15+Years
Experience in Scottish routes
Effortless Luggage Transfers
Support When You Need It
Accommodation Planning
The Route at a Glance
The John Muir Way is a long-distance walking route that stretches across central Scotland, linking the west coast to the east.
Starting in Helensburgh and finishing in Dunbar, the route takes you through a wide variety of landscapes, including coastal paths, canals, countryside, and historic towns.
Top Tip :
Coast-to-coast Scottish walking experience, Coastal paths, woodlands, canals, and farmland, Views of the Firth of Forth and North Sea, Historic towns and cultural landmarks, Well-marked and accessible route.
Trusted by Walkers & Cyclists Worldwide
Your adventure matters — that’s why we handle the details, support you on the
journey, and make exploring Scotland simple, safe and unforgettable.
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John Muir Way Articles
Handpicked guides by our experts
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What’s on… along The John Muir Way in 2022
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John Muir Day: 14 facts and stats about Scots-born US conservationist
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John Muir Way: Visit The Helix, home of The Kelpies
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
Is the John Muir Way suitable for beginners?
Yes, it’s ideal for beginners with a reasonable fitness level.
Is the route well signposted?
Yes, the John Muir Way is clearly waymarked throughout.
Can I walk only part of the route?
Absolutely. Many walkers choose shorter sections.
If you didn’t find the answer you were looking for, don’t hesitate to reach out!
