A few weeks ago I was interviewed virtually by one of Scotland's best known outdoor writers who goes under the name Munro Moonwalker. A chance comment by me on his Facebook page about accessing the hills without a car seemed to strike a chord and he made contact for more information about my experiences. I've never owned a car so all my solo hillwalking and cycling trips are done by public transport. Even the majority of trips with friends will use buses and trains as we find this much more enjoyable. I originally replicated on my own blog the answers I collated, especially as they didn't all appear in the article. However, I've since agreed that the information I provided can be used for an article in the Munro Society Journal. So I'll just give a flavour in this blog and include some of my photos that I submitted to accompany the material.
My most important reason for never owning a car and using boot, bike, bus and train to get around is an environmental one. The main source of air pollution in this country is transport and the majority of vehicles emitting that pollution are individual cars. All that pollution contributes to ill health and climate change. Public transport is still associated with emissions of course but it's a more efficient way of moving people around. The huge volume of cars on our roads now is also the main reason people quote for not travelling actively by bicycle or walking, so it's a double whammy for poor health. Supporting rural train and bus services is important as well to ensure they are kept running for those who depend on them.
The other reason for not owning a car is simply that I enjoy life so much without one. In terms of hillwalking, it can be challenging getting to some hills by public transport or bicycle but this makes things more rewarding and forces you to be creative in how you go about things. I think it also improves your planning and risk assessments as there is no easy escape home if a storm is moving in and the last bus has left. Likewise, you don't have the security of a car at the bottom of the hill. The train especially is such a relaxing way to travel as you can chat with friends or watch the scenery and enjoy a cup of tea from the trolley service. The bus is great for wherever the train doesn't reach and bus drivers can be really helpful about dropping you right at the start of a walk. Both of these open up great possibilities for through routes, where you start and finish at different places because you don't have to get back to wherever you've parked a car.
Overall, it just feels the right thing to do and I believe I'm happier and healthier for not owning a car.
Corrour Station: a favourite spot for jumping off the train in the middle of the hills.
Drumochter: I climbed the Drumochter Munros using the train to Dalwhinnie then the folding bike to bridge the gap between the train station and the start of the walk.
Achnashellach is another favourite station that gives good access to Torridon to the north or the Monar Munros to the south.
Caledonian Canal: I used the canal towpath and a kick scooter to get form the train at Banavie to the Loch Lochy Munros.
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