The towpaths beside the Caledonian Canal are set to attract more boots and bikes after being revamped as part of a £4million project to improve the network nationwide.
The works have improved nearly 28 miles of towpaths throughout Scotland – 12.4miles in the Highlands – which already attract about 22million visits a year.
Among the upgraded paths on the Caledonian Canal is the Dochgarroch Loop, a popular route with runners, cyclists and walkers which links the Tomnahurich Bridge in Inverness and Dochgarroch.
Other improved sections include Banavie to Gairlochy and by Aberchalder and the Muirtown Basin in Inverness.
Resurfacing has been completed and new signage has been installed.
The entire scheme is said to be the biggest revamp to the towpaths since their restoration at the Millennium.
They also link some of the nation’s top tourism attractions, including the iconic Neptune’s Staircase locks near Fort William, and form a key part of the Great Glen Way and John Muir Way walking and cycling routes.
The works were undertaken by Scottish Canals and funded by green travel promoters Sustrans Scotland, and the Scottish Government’s Future Transport Fund and various local authorities and organisations.
Transport Minister Derek Mackay, who was at Dochgarroch Primary school to officially open the new path, said: “We have worked closely with our partners to ensure £4million of investment provides more active travel routes to link our rural communities and encourage more people to walk and cycle along Scotland’s fabulous canal network.
“Walking and cycling bring enormous health and environmental benefits, and we want more people to use them as alternative transport options. We have already invested record levels of almost £40 million on cycling projects, and I am determined to increase that again this year to help create more opportunities for people to be active.”