Accessibility on the route

We aim to make the route as accessible to as many people as possible.  Much of it follows smoothly surfaced paths – disused railways, canal towpaths and cycleways – but some sections are steeper, narrower and rougher, may include busy road crossings or may present obstacles such as narrow gates or steps. 

For the most physically challenging sections, an alternative option is waymarked with a cycle symbol where it branches off from the main route. This alternative option is also usually (but not always) more accessible with a buggy, wheelchair or horse. 

To help you assess for yourself which sections are suitable for your intended use, level of fitness and physical mobility, the John Muir Way was surveyed in autumn 2021 and a series of storymaps produced providing details, locations and photos of features which may restrict accessibility of the waymarked John Muir Way (both the main 'walking' route and alternative 'cycle' route sections).  The storymaps are equally relevant to walkers, cyclists, horse riders, people using mobility aids, wheelchairs or pushing buggies.

Follow the link below to find the 10 storymaps, which have detailed information on each of the route sections.

John Muir Way Accessibility Storymaps