Walkers challenged to 'epic' Highland hike

Walkers from across Scotland are being urged to lace up their boots and grab their back packs for a mammoth 73 mile charity hike. Starting on 11 May.

The Highland Hike will provide a challenge to all levels of walker as they aim to travel from Fort William to Inverness by 5.00pm on 15th May, in support of The Waterways Trust Scotland. The hike, which has been organised by British Waterways Scotland, The Waterways Trust Scotland and the Great Glen Way Ranger Service, will take place during The Great Glen Week celebrations which run from 10 May to 17 May.

Beatrice Clark, waterway development co-ordinator for The Caledonian Canal said: “The Highland Hike is a challenging walk but also a tremendous opportunity for walkers to enjoy some of the most beautiful scenery in Scotland, whilst helping to raise money for The Waterways Trust Scotland.”

Karen Moore, head of development of The Waterways Trust Scotland said; “The Trust is delighted to be involved with this exciting new walking event and all the monies raised from the walkers will be spent on new signage and information points on the Caledonian Canal and throughout The Great Glen Way. This will develop visitors’ knowledge and interest in this beautiful area of Scotland.”

The challenge will start at The Great Glen Way Marker Stone, which is located at the site of the Old Fort in Fort William, on Sunday 11 May between 08.00 09.30 and completion is at The Great Glen Way Marker Stone at Inverness Castle. The hikers will be greeted at The Town House in Inverness where a prize giving ceremony will take place. There are three prizes for the highest fundraisers including a luxury weekend break for two in Scotland, a quaich and bottle of fine whisky for the winner and two runners up prizes of quaich and bottle of whisky.