West Lothian Shale Trail

The trail stretches from West Calder in the south-west to Winchburgh in the north-east and is loosely based on the ‘Paraffin Young Heritage Trail’ which was first set up in the 1970’s for automobile users. The path has now been re-imagined for walkers and cyclists, opening access to exciting new paths. Access to Greendykes, the Five Sister bings and abandoned quarries re-inhabited by nature are particular highlights.

There will be historical information along the route which will tell the story of the ‘Shale people’ and public art to capture the imagination, bringing communities together to celebrate their rich history.

Shale Trail Walking Routes
To help people get out and about and exploring your local area, a series of short walking routes are logged on Komoot 

The Easter Breich walk has been created and supplied by the West Lothian Ramblers. The leisurely 3 mile walk begins at Easter Breich Woods in Livingston and takes you on a loop around the Shale Trail. It is an excellent way to spend a few hours outdoors and enjoy wildlife and history around you.

The West Lothian walk is a 9 mile walk beginning and ending in East Calder in West Lothian. The walk makes for an interesting and active afternoon.  The trail steps you through the industrial history of West Lothian from the Shale industry to the canals. So take a step into your local history one afternoon.

The Broxburn walk is a short Health Walk around Broxburn that helps you explore some of the Shale Trail and the history behind the Shale Industry that once thrived in the area. The Broxburn route lets you see the bings created by the industry and some of the still existing miners housing. You can start the walk at the Xcite Broxburn Sport Centre on Church St and enjoy an hours stroll through the area.

Information from http://www.elgt.org.uk/projects/walking-cycling/shale-trail/