Remember that your actions outdoors can affect you, other people and the environment. Everyone has the right to be on most land and inland water in Scotland, providing they act responsibly. Your access rights and responsibilities are explained fully in the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.

The outdoors is a great place to enjoy but it’s also a working environment and natural hazards exist. Make sure you are aware of this, take care of yourself and others with you, including your dog.

All the land that you cross is used and managed for some purpose. Particularly sensitive times of year are spring, when sheep are lambing and there are ground nesting birds, and autumn, when red deer are stalked on the high ground. You should also be alert to forestry operations, and follow guidance in any signage provided.

It is advisable to get a weather forecast and to take conditions into account when planning your walk. In winter, especially when snow and ice cover the ground, walking becomes more difficult and high routes may be impassable. After very heavy rain, streams can be uncrossable and rivers may flood, submerging paths.

You need to be self-sufficient on the Walking Rings – able to navigate for yourself and prepared to carry everything you need, including map, waterproofs, food and water. On many of the walks you may see no other people all day and mobile phone signals are non-existent on much of the route.

Always ensure you are properly equipped, bearing in mind terrain, duration, weather and all other relevant factors. For further information, this is an excellent resource.