Special events are being held in advance of the 10th anniversary of the opening of the John Muir Way – a 134-mile route which winds its way through East Dunbartonshire.
Two boat trips on the Forth and Clyde Canal will explore the enduring legacy of the world-renowned conservationist and the popular trail created in his memory.
They are being funded by Paths for All – Smarter Choices Smarter Places – to inspire people to find out more about Muir and to encourage active travel locally.
Both boat trips are free (booking required):
John Muir Way Talk
Thursday 22 February – 10am-noon
Take a cruise along the canal while learning about the John Muir Way – which offers a magical mix of landscapes, history, heritage and wildlife. Gaby Macbeth from Skylark Guiding will offer insights and advice, as well as highlighting routes you can walk within East Dunbartonshire and incorporate into your everyday life. Breakfast pastries and refreshments will be provided.
John Muir, Father of Conservation
Thursday 29 February – 12.30-2.30pm
Enjoy a gentle afternoon on the canal while learning about John Muir – a pioneer of the modern conservation movement, who went on a lifelong journey filled with exploration, revelation, hardship and wonder. The speaker will be Tracy Robertson, Steward of Lauriston Castle, who spent 10 years managing Muir’s birthplace in Dunbar. Cakes and refreshments will be provided.
The trips will take approximately two hours – leaving from, and returning to, the pontoon opposite Nonna’s Kitchen in Kirkintilloch. To book your place, please email laura.dolan@eastdunbarton.gov.uk
"I'm pleased we have been able to organise events to celebrate the life of John Muir and the 10th anniversary of the trail established in his memory.
"It's one of a number of paths and routes used regularly by walkers and cyclists for leisure and commuting.
"It's important for our physical and mental health to get outdoors and get active as often as possible. We’re very lucky to have such wonderful natural and built amenities so close by – offering people the chance to walk, wheel and cycle for everyday journeys."
The John Muir Way, which turns 10 on 21 April, stretches across Scotland’s heartland – running between Helensburgh in the west and his birthplace in Dunbar on the east coast. East Dunbartonshire is host to the section between Kilsyth and Strathblane, which includes the Strathkelvin Railway Path.
For more information, visit the John Muir website and the tourism section of the Council website.
* Please note, if there is ice on the canal on either day of the trips, the boat will not be able to sail, but alternative arrangements will be communicated.
