The TGO Challenge is an annual self-supported walk across Scotland, from the west coast to the east coast. The Challenge is unique in that each participant (or team of up to 4) must plan their own route and be responsible for their own safety during the event. A certain level of backpacking experience, and experience of the sort of conditions Scotland can deliver, is required to be accepted onto the event.
I undertook my first TGO Challenge in 2017, and loved it so much that I’ve applied every year since. It’s an addictive event that for me offers an unmatched combination of solitude, walking with friends and like-minded people and social opportunities. Each participant can create a route that fits how they like to walk, and part of the joy of the Challenge is unexpectedly bumping into Challengers in the middle of nowhere.
2022: Lochailort to Dunnottar Castle
The horrors of Loch Beoraid, the Corran ferry and West Highland Way to Kinlochleven, then straight across to Blair Atholl, Glen Tilt, Deeside Way and Feterresso Forest.
2019: Mallaig to Montrose
Through Knoydart, the Monadhliath, Lairig Ghru and Forest of Doom.
2018: Oban to Shonehaven
Glen Etive, Rannoch Moor, Dalwhinnie, Feshie and the Fetteresso.
2017: Dornie to Lunan Bay
The Affric Kintail Way, Monadhliath, Lairig Ghru and an unexpected detour on Soggy Sunday.
