AN unmapped hidden potential path network of more than 300 miles in West Dunbartonshire has been suggested by early data captured from a mapping trial.
The year-long pilot project initiated by Ramblers Scotland, a charity organisation of walkers from all over the country, has collected information on walking paths across West Dunbartonshire using data donated by 14 organisations who manage paths in the area.
Work is still continuing on the uncovered local paths, with the data in audit on the ground to ensure it is accurate and useful before publication.
The trail regions include parts of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park as well as other areas surrounding Dumbarton such as Duncolm Hill - which, at 401 metres, is the highest point in West Dunbartonshire and the Kilpatrick Hills.
Read more: West Dunbartonshire Council misses housing ‘satisfaction’ target
Commenting on the findings, Catherine Watt, a volunteer walk leader with Glasgow Ramblers, said: “Experienced walkers will already know that some Scottish paths aren’t shown on printed maps, but it’s fascinating to learn just how many exist here on our doorstep.
“We look forward to Ramblers Scotland making this data freely available to the public and I’m sure it’ll prompt many people – including me – to start planning new adventures on foot.”
Ramblers Scotland says that over the next two years it intends to publish easily accessible data showing paths all across Scotland, including far more than the 13,000 miles of ‘core paths’.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here