Wandering along The West Highland Way …

The West Highland Way is considered to be Scotland’s most well-known and popular long-distance trail – because it leads walkers past, and through, some of the most beautiful and iconic landscapes of the Highlands.

Stretching 96 miles (154 km) from Milngavie to Fort William, this walk takes in some of the most dramatic scenery imaginable.

Ideally one can cover the route in eight stages, averaging 12 miles of walking each day and giving you plenty of time to enjoy your surroundings.

MILNGAVIE TO DRYMEN (19KM/12M)

As with all the walks, you can start from either end of the trail, in this case, either Milngavie or For William, however, the most popular route commences from the granite obelisk in Milngavie town center and is a pretty flat route with some great scenery, that gives a great start to the walk and ample opportunity to ease into your rhythm.

The paths on this stretch are good, with some lovely rural outlook and leads all the way to Drymen where you will rest up ahead of day two.

DRYMEN TO ROWARDENNAN (22.5 KM/14 MILES)

From Drymen, the route heads up and over Conic Hill, and although a steep climb, it is rewarded with stunning views over Loch Lomond, the largest inland stretch of water in Great Britain, then down into the little village of Balmaha, along the way some incredible forest scenery. You arrive in Rowardennan, which is also the starting point for climbing Ben Lomond.

ROWARDENNAN TO INVERARNAN (22.5KM/14M)

Day three is one of the more challenging days, with lots of undulating terrains. As you leave Rowardennan the path follows forestry roads to climb above Loch Lomond, with great views over the loch and towards the Arrochar Alps. You’ll be rewarded at Inversnaid as you pass over the spectacular bridge and waterfall, and pass close by Rob Roy’s Cave. The path to the head of the loch is another strenuous one with lots of ups and downs, so you’ll be glad to visit the renowned Drovers Inn when you reach Inverarnan.

INVERARNAN TO TYNDRUM (19.5KM/12M)

The landscape changes again on this section of the West Highland Way for day four, giving your legs a chance to recover from the previous days! The walking on the stretch to Tyndrum is much more relaxing, with good paths climbing out of Inverarnan through Glen Falloch – look for glimpses of the Falls of Falloch – and towards Crianlarich. The peaks of Ben More and Stob Binnean provide a wonderful backdrop.

After Crianlarich you’ll head through some quiet woodland and then back onto the valley floor, still surrounded by the dramatic highland scenery. The route passes the ruins of St Fillan’s Priory as you follow the river into Tyndrum.

TYNDRUM TO INVERORAN (14.5KM/9M)

Stage five is another day of rewarding Highland views, leaving Tyndrum, you follow the valley floor guided by the huge conical peak of Beinn Dorain ahead. It’s a gentle walk down into the hamlet of Bridge of Orchy, with its railway station and views to Glen Orchy. A short sharp climb leaving the Bridge of Orchy provides you with some spectacular views across Loch Tulla and the Black Mount.

INVERORAN TO KINGSHOUSE (16KM/10M)

Day six is a remote section of the walk, with some exposed areas, so make sure you’re prepared for the ever-changing Scottish elements. The path from Inveroran heads around Loch Tulla and up onto Rannoch Moor, a beautiful wild landscape that was once covered by a giant icecap. Stop for a rest at Ba Bridge, hopefully, the weather will allow for good views from here!

Continuing along the old military road, you’ll pass the Glencoe Ski Centre and then into sight of Buachaille Etive Mor, one of the best known, most loved, and most photographed Munro peaks. ‘The Buachaille’, as it’s known, featured in scenes from the James Bond film Skyfall.

KINGSHOUSE TO KINLOCHLEVEN (14.5KM/9M)

From Kingshouse follow the old military road to Altnafeadh, close to the foot of The Buachaille and with views of the historic Glen Coe, site of the Glencoe Massacre in 1692. You then turn sharp right to follow a zig-zag route up the Devil’s Staircase, reaching the highest point of the West Highland Way at 550m, marked with a cairn.

If the weather’s clear you’ll have superb views towards Ben Nevis, and also back to Buachaille Etive Mor. From here it’s a descent and a walk across moorland into the pretty town of Kinlochleven.

KINLOCHLEVEN TO FORTH WILLIAM (24KM/16M)

Your final day starts with a steep climb out of Kinlochleven, but it’s worth it for the fantastic views over Loch Leven. You’ll follow a narrow easy track through a remote valley and pretty forest, following the glen into Glen Nevis. Ahead of you is Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain standing at 1,345m – the forestry road passes the visitor center.

You’re on the home stretch now! The final couple of miles are a descent along the Glen Nevis road into Fort William, where you’ll find the official end to the West Highland Way on the main street in the town.

Once you have walked the West Highland Way (WHW) not only will you have seen and discovered some of Scotland’s most beautiful scenery, but you will feel the incredible accomplishment of having completed this challenging yet rewarding walk. Why not reward yourself with one of our fun T-shirts to mark your incredible journey?

We can’t wait to see you in Scotland soon!

The Walkers Club Team