10 Jun More 2026 dates for OATS Path Maintenance Volunteer Programme (June – October)

The Outdoor Access Trust for Scotland (OATS) is delighted to announce dates for the remainder of the 2026 Path Maintenance Volunteering (PMV) season, with more fantastic opportunities for our volunteers to help care for some of Scotland’s most spectacular, well-loved and fragile mountain landscapes.

2026 Path Maintenance Volunteer Programme – June to October

• Monday 29 June – Carn Liath, Beinn a’Ghlo, Blair Atholl
• Tuesday 30 June – Glenlivet Estate Maintenance & Conservation Day, Tomintoul
• Monay 06 & Tuesday 07 July – Lochnagar paths, Ballater
• Monday 13 July – Glen Callater to Lochnagar, Braemar
• Monday 20 July – Braeriach, Aviemore
• Tuesday 21 July – Coire Raibert, Aviemore
• Tuesday 04 August – Chalamain Gap to Lairig Ghru, Aviemore
• Monday 10 & Tuesday 11 August – Glen Clova – 2 day event a
• Monday 17 August – Morrone, Braemar
• Monday 07 September – Coire Domhain, Aviemore
• Tuesday 08 September – Lairig an Laoigh, Aviemore, Bike and Hike event
• Monday 14 September – Carn Ban Mor, Glen Feshie
• Tuesday 15 September – Meall a’Bhuachaille, Aviemore
• Monday 21 September – Mount Keen from Glen Esk – Bike and Hike event
• Mon 28 September – Friday 02 October – Glen Brittle paths, Isle of Skye – 5 day event

About OATS Path Maintenance Volunteer Days

OATS PMV days focus on path repair, erosion control and practical conservation, helping to protect upland landscapes from the impacts of increased footfall, extreme weather and historic under-maintenance.

Volunteers work alongside experienced staff and contractors, learning traditional and modern path-building techniques while gaining a deeper understanding of Scotland’s mountain environments and cultural heritage. No previous path work experience is required – tools, training and guidance are provided.

We need all of our volunteers to have a reasonable level of fitness and some outdoor experience. Volunteers are welcome, whether they can attend one day or several across the season.

Growing Demand for Volunteering

The PMV programme is led by Eva Kupska, OATS’ Outdoor Access Volunteer Coordinator, who encourages people to sign up early: “Footpath maintenance days are increasingly popular with hillwalkers, mountain bikers and runners who want to give something back to the places they love. As volunteer numbers grow, we’re able to deliver more sessions and respond more effectively to erosion and path damage across Scotland’s mountains.”

“There’s no minimum commitment – whether someone joins us once or regularly, every volunteer plays a vital role in protecting Scotland’s path network for future generations to enjoy.”

How to Get Involved

To register as an OATS volunteer and sign up for PMV events, visit the online volunteer portal:
👉 https://volunteers.outdooraccesstrustforscotland.org.uk
(Volunteers are encouraged to bookmark the page for future opportunities.)

Before registering, volunteers can find further information on the FAQs section of the portal.

OATS also welcomes enquiries from community groups, schools, clubs and businesses interested in bespoke environmental volunteering days. To discuss tailored opportunities, contact Eva Kupska at [email protected].

Thank You to Our Volunteers

OATS would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who gives their time, energy and enthusiasm to maintaining Scotland’s mountain paths – often in challenging weather and remote locations. Your commitment makes a lasting difference to the health, safety and sustainability of our upland landscapes.