Forth and Clyde Canal Pathway | |
---|---|
Length | 106 km (66 mi) |
Location | Scotland |
Designation | Scotland's Great Trails |
Trailheads | Bowling, west of Glasgow55°55′48″N 4°28′48″W / 55.930°N 4.480°W Lochrin, Edinburgh55°56′35″N 3°12′29″W / 55.943°N 3.208°W |
Use | Hiking, cycling |
Elevation gain/loss | 158 m (518 ft) gain[1] |
Website | https://www.scottishcanals.co.uk/activities/walking-running/forth-clyde-and-union-canals/ |
The Forth and Clyde canal pathway runs between the Firth of Forth and the Firth of Clyde and is a 106-kilometre-long (66 mi) footpath and cycleway that runs across Scotland, between Bowling, west of Glasgow, and Lochrin Basin (Edinburgh Quay) in Edinburgh. The path runs on the towpaths of the Forth & Clyde and Union Canals and is entirely off-road.[2] The path is well maintained and its surface is generally good, although there are some stretches particularly between Falkirk and the outskirts of Edinburgh where wet weather leads to muddy conditions unsuitable for road intended bicycles.[citation needed] It is well used by walkers and cyclists, and designated as one of Scotland's Great Trails by NatureScot.[1] It also forms part of the National Cycle Network, being designated as Route 754.[2] Sustrans advises that the path is best followed from the Clyde to the Forth because the prevailing wind is from the south west.[2] Much of the path is also suitable for experienced horseriders, although in some places low bridges, narrow aqueducts and gates may restrict access for horses.[3]