Ramblers Scotland wants people to pull on their boots and enjoy the scenery

A campaigning walking charity is hoping Scots will Get Outdoors to help the group celebrate its 50th birthday.

Ramblers Scotland’s Get Outdoors weekend marks the organisation’s half century of campaigning for walkers north of the border.

The charity said it wants to help everyone across Scotland discover the fun of getting active outdoors and enjoy the health benefits of walking. “We have lots to share, a huge array of great walks and walking routes”, a spokesperson said. “People of all ages and abilities have the opportunity to try something new, meet new people, explore new places and have a great day outside.”

Ramblers Scotland director Jess Dolan said: “Get Outdoors Weekend is a great way of celebrating Ramblers Scotland’s 50th birthday by showcasing all that Scotland’s fabulous countryside has to offer.

“With the long summer days, there’s no better time to go exploring on foot and discovering new places, paths and views.

“We’ve got lots of ideas to inspire everyone to enjoy the outdoors, whether on their own, with family and friends or with others on a group led walk. There’s something for everyone, from families and unseasoned walkers to veteran trekkers and walking enthusiasts. Find out what’s on your doorstep, get adventurous and enjoy all that Scotland has to offer.”

Ramblers Scotland now offers more than 450 routes for those looking for short walks in their local area, mapped as part of its Medal Routes project. These short, circular routes of bronze (15 minutes), silver (30 minutes) and gold (60 minutes) can be found in locations ranging from Orkney and Shetland down to Dumfries and Galloway and the Borders.

For more experienced walkers, Scotland also offers 26 long-distance routes of 23 miles or more. Scotland’s Great Trails showcase some of the country’s best scenery and can make a great foundation for a day trip, the charity said. Many of the trails are close to local towns and villages, such as the John Muir Way, which runs through the Central Belt from Dunbar to Helensburgh, or the Fife and Ayrshire Coastal Paths.

The Get Outdoors weekend will run from 1 to 3 August. Anyone who shares their adventures with Ramblers Scotland in its Get Outdoors photo competition could win a prize, including two nights’ stay for two at the Gleneagles Hotel, Páramo fleece and windproof jacket, a Highlander Blackthorn2 tent, Pocket Mountain guide books, Nikwax, walking socks and water bottles.

More details are on the Ramblers Scotland website.