Gateways to the Park!

Trust in the Park has teamed up with renowned round-the-world cyclist and filmmaker Markus Stitz to showcase Loch and the Trossachs National Park’s extensive network of accessible walking, wheeling and cycling routes this summer.

A new short film titled ‘Gateways’, now available on YouTube, underscores the Trust’s commitment to making active travel accessible to all. The film, supported by Paths for All’s 'Smarter Choices Smarter Places' fund, encourages people to slow down, connect with nature and explore the national park by active transport, leaving their cars at home.

Stitz, the first person to cycle around the world on a single-speed mountain bike, was commissioned by the Trust to make the film in recognition of his dedication to removing barriers to the great outdoors. Through his lens, viewers are invited to explore the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant communities that make the national park a haven for outdoor enthusiasts of all abilities.

Known for his bikepacking adventures across the world, Stitz has a particular fondness for his adopted homeland and said:

“Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, widely recognised as the birthplace of Scottish tourism and the gateway to the Highlands, is setting new standards in accessibility with its extensive network of walking, wheeling and cycling routes.

“It features some of the world’s most outstanding places to walk, wheel and cycle, with trails through some of Scotland’s most stunning natural habitats, from native woodlands and peatlands to mountains and lochs.”

Filmed entirely through active travel modes, ‘Gateways’ journeys through the park’s picturesque landscapes and communities offering a glimpse into the lives of those who live and work there. Including hand bike enthusiast Neil Russell, who enthuses about the accessible adventures the National Park offers him, continuing: 

“One of the things I love most is how easily you can get out and feel quite remote, immersed in nature. Coming from Stirling, Glasgow or Edinburgh you're very quickly out here enjoying this environment and getting to see the wildlife.”

Markus Stitz

Gordon Allan, Manager of The Steamship Sir Walter Scott, also features in the film. He added: 

“The best thing about having our steamship back on the water is that we can get accessible bikes on board. We had a chap last year whose excitement was palpable when he came back to Loch Katrine. He said it was fantastic to come to Trossachs pier, sail on the steamship to Stronachlachar and then return under his own power.”

As well as scenic boat trips, the National Park encompasses key trails like the West Highland Way, Rob Roy Way and the Great Trossachs Path, alongside the National Cycle Network Route 7 (Lochs and Glens Way).

Jim Riach, the Trust’s Active Travel Officer, explains: 

“With several of Scotland’s most famous active travel routes passing through the area, connecting with nature and the Park’s gateway communities of Aberfoyle, Callander, Arrochar and Tarbet couldn’t be easier.

“The Park not only offers amazing trails and stunning landscapes but also everything you need to support your adventure, from welcoming accommodation and cafes to an extensive network of bike shops and rental services that make leaving the car at home an attractive option.”

Adding: “What fascinates me about living and working in this area is the passion that people have for their home, and for cycling, walking, and wheeling throughout the seasons.”

Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park is accessible to half of Scotland’s population by either public or active travel. Arrochar and Tarbet are well-connected by train and bus, while Aberfoyle and Callander offer good bus connections to the train station in Stirling. During the peak tourist season (July to October), the Trossachs Explorer service further enhances accessibility by connecting Callander and Aberfoyle with popular attractions and active travel routes. 

Discover cycling, walking and wheeling routes and plan your journey to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park by public transport at www.trustinthepark.org. 

Follow @trustinthepark on social media for itinerary inspiration and tag your sustainable journey using #AJourneyThatMatters.