23k Run West Lothian: Scenic Journey from Queensferry to Edinburgh

Route Overview & Local Insights

Tackling Stage 7 of the John Muir Way involves a rewarding 22.9km journey that bridges the gap between the majestic Firth of Forth and the heart of Edinburgh. Starting under the towering shadows of the iconic Forth Bridges in Queensferry, runners will encounter a mix of terrains, with roughly 55% of the path being paved. The route is categorized as hilly, featuring a gradual ascent of 205m, predominantly as you navigate the undulating coastline of the Dalmeny Estate and move through leafy woodland trails toward the Union Canal. Expect a diverse foot-feel ranging from estate gravel to smooth canal towpaths, making it a perfect long-distance training run for those seeking scenery over speed.

Local runners cherish this section for its deep ties to Scottish history and conservation. Passing through the grounds of the 19th-century Dalmeny House, you are running through a landscape designed by the Earls of Rosebery, offering rare glimpses of "wild" coastline so close to the capital. The route is named after the "Father of National Parks," John Muir, who was born in nearby Dunbar and spent his life advocating for the protection of the natural world. Finishing along the Union Canal into Fountainbridge—once an industrial powerhouse and now a thriving urban hub—perfectly encapsulates the Scottish transition from regal historical estates to the vibrant, modern energy of Edinburgh.