Robert Marshall – National Park Volunteer
Robert Marshall’s deep-rooted appreciation and dedication to the West Highland Way made him an indispensable positive force in the National Park. Robert’s passion and work to care for and enjoy the West Highland Way and National Park, are a legacy that will live on in the future generations who follow in his steps along the Way.
In April 2025, we recognised Robert Marshall’s significant contribution and dedication to protecting and maintaining the Park for his tireless efforts and passion for the West Highland Way as a National Park Volunteer. Robert was celebrated as a Nature Hero, as part of our Nature Connections campaign at a time when he was just about to undertake his 100th West Highland Way alongside his family, raising funds for the newly formed Trust in the process.
Last month when walking the West Highland Way for the 108th time, Robert tragically passed away.
As a National Park Authority team, we offer our condolences to Robert’s friends and family and our profound thanks to Robert for his deeply rooted connection, care and protection of the area and landscape which meant so much to him. His commitment and actions to protect the natural environment, so that future generations could enjoy it, are an inspiration to us all and a reminder that the National Park is for everyone and is also everyone’s responsibility to protect.
Last year Robert shared some of his memories and motivations for his appreciation and deep connection to the National Park and West Highland Way which you can read below. Robert’s contribution as a Nature Hero is also featured as part of a photographic exhibition which is currently available to view at our visitor centre in Balmaha, before moving to locations across the National Park.
Nature Hero, Robert Marshall volunteered with the National Park Authority for nearly 8 years. Alongside fellow volunteers and staff, Robert focused his efforts in helping to maintain and protect the paths and environment of his much-loved West Highland Way – so that others could enjoy the path as much as he did.
His connection to nature ran deep, “Nature is freedom, beauty, fresh air and life. Everything is stunning including the rain. Water is the most stunning element on planet earth, and we are lucky to have an abundance of it” – which explains why Robert’s favourite place in the National Park was Loch Lomond.
As part of our 2025 Nature Campaign, Robert’s commitment inspires others to contribute to the preservation of nature by understanding its fragility and taking action to protect it. His story is one of dedication, environmental stewardship, and a desire to leave the landscape better than he found it.