Outdoor Highlands

The thousands of boots, bikes hooves and paws coupled with our unpredictable Scottish weather and the impact of climate change all contribute to erosion and degradation of our path network. The Access Rangers are playing a part towards the required ongoing upkeep and maintenance to keep these paths accessible.

The work has been varied with the Highland weather presenting a challenge. Path works have included Lybster, Beinn Bhraggie and along the Great Glen Way ensuring that drains are cleared, signs are helpful and the surface more walkable for visitors.

A trail isn’t just a path but features bridges, gates, signage and drainage all of which are observed, monitored and maintained by the Access Team. The Access Ranger Team have also assisted the Highlife Highland Countryside Ranger Team in the replacement of picnic tables at Dulsie Bridge and in Nairn whilst also working alongside the Great Glen Way Team with vegetation clearance. If you regularly visit Balnakeil and Bettyhill you will know that we have also been busy replacing gates and maintaining bridges.

Before Easter you may find the team working on fencing at Smoo Cave and upgrading picnic sites across the Highlands. We are hopeful that we will be back out on patrol in the summer of 2025.