Embark on an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Scotland with the John o’ Groats Trail, a spectacular coastal walking route stretching from Inverness to John o’ Groats, the northeastern tip of mainland Britain. This guidebook serves as your essential companion to navigating this 233km (145 miles) trail, designed for experienced walkers seeking a rewarding two-week hiking experience in the UK.
The John o’ Groats Trail is meticulously detailed from south to north across 14 distinct stages, each ranging between 10 and 25km (6–16 miles), allowing for a manageable and immersive exploration of the Scottish coastline. For those preferring a southbound adventure, summary notes are thoughtfully included to accommodate reverse direction hikers. Furthermore, an alternative starting point from Drumnadrochit is provided, offering a convenient bypass of Inverness for walkers arriving from the Great Glen.
Inside this comprehensive guide, you will find:
- Detailed Mapping: Each stage is accompanied by clear and precise maps, ensuring you stay on course and discover hidden gems along the way.
- Downloadable GPX Files: Seamlessly integrate technology into your trek with readily available GPX files, perfect for digital navigation and tracking your progress.
- Essential Facilities & Logistics: Comprehensive information on facilities, public transport options, and diverse accommodation choices available along the route, ensuring a comfortable and well-planned journey.
- Expert Planning & Preparation Advice: Benefit from invaluable advice on planning and preparation, equipping you with the knowledge to tackle the trail confidently and safely.
Table of Contents Overview:
CONTENTS
Overview map
Key to stage overview maps
Key to stage maps
Route summary table
Introduction
The terrain
The hazards of the Trail
Transport links
Access considerations
Accommodation
Equipment
Wildlife
Climate and day length
Geology
Using this guide
The John o’ Groats Trail
Stage 1 Inverness to Culbokie
Stage 2 Culbokie to Alness
Stage 3 Alness to Tain
Stage 4 Tain to Dornoch
Stage 5 Dornoch to Golspie
Stage 6 Golspie to Brora
Stage 7 Brora to Helmsdale
Stage 8 Helmsdale to Berriedale
Stage 9 Berriedale to Dunbeath
Stage 10 Dunbeath to Lybster
Stage 11 Lybster to Whaligoe
Stage 12 Whaligoe to Wick
Stage 13 Wick to Keiss
Stage 14 Keiss to John o’ Groats
Bonus tracks
Stage A1 Drumnadrochit to Beauly
Stage A2 Beauly to Dingwall
Stage A3 Dingwall to Alness
Appendix A Useful contacts
Updates
We do not yet have any updates available for this book
We are always grateful to readers for information about any discrepancies between a guidebook and the facts on the ground. If you would like to send some information to us then please use our contact form. They will be published here following review by the author(s).
Downloads
Walking the John o’ Groats Trail – GPX File
Discover the John o’ Groats Trail and prepare for an epic hiking adventure across the stunning landscapes of the UK’s northern coast.