The experiences of long distance walking: A case study of the West Highland Way in Scotland

Abstract

This study sets out to understand the dynamics of the experience of long distance walking, a topic that has not been explored to a great extent. Previous work in outdoor recreation has indicated that an experience is dynamic, being both multi-phasic and emergent. Holidays are accepted to be the multiple expressions of only a few motives. Focussing on one activity, long distance walking, attention is shifted to differences in, and influences on, the eventual experience. This includes a period of anticipation. With reference to the West Highland Way in Scotland, the latter is assessed through an a priori, self-completion questionnaire. The individual, day-by-day experience of walking the route is captured using a relatively new research method of a real-time, in situ diary questionnaire. Overall, it has been suggested that an on-site experience involves an exit phase, where the participants prepare to leave the holiday situation. Rather than decreasing in intensity, however, the enjoyment of the long distance walking experience finishes on an upward trend.