Guide to the John o' Groats Trail, a 233km walking route linking
Inverness with John o' Groats on the northeast tip of mainland Britain.
Much of the walking is coastal, with the northern half characterised by
its spectacular seacliffs; however, there is some inland walking too,
and the scenery is varied, ranging from dunes and deserted sandy beaches
to beautiful woodland. With rough ground and some exposed clifftop
walking, the route is suited to experienced hikers. It takes around a
fortnight to complete.
The route is described in 14 stages, each of which includes: an
overview map; step-by-step route description illustrated with custom
mapping; details of accommodation, facilities and transport links; and
information on local points of interest. While the main route
description is from south to north, notes are supplied for southbound
walkers. Also included is a bonus route linking the trail with the Great
Glen, for the benefit of walkers undertaking the Land's End to John o'
Groats challenge. There is a wealth of information to help you plan for
the John o' Groats Trail, including advice on transport, weather,
hazards and kit, and background notes on geology and wildlife.
This challenging route crosses a part of the country that not many
walkers are familiar with. There are plentiful opportunities to spot
wildlife and seabirds, with grey seals, common seals and ospreys a
common sight. There are ruined medieval castles on the cliff edges, as
well as many sea arches and stacks. John o' Groats is renowned as
mainland Britain's most northeasterly village and the John o' Groats
Trail offers a chance to experience this fascinating and beautiful
corner of the country.
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
