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The West Highland Way is Scotland’s premier long-distance hiking trail. By walking just short of 14 miles per day, you can see the best that the highlands has to offer in a one-week hike, making it perfect for those with limited time off from work.
The trail has a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Highlands, which at times can feel otherworldly and very remote for UK standards. Stretching just over 96 miles from Milngavie to Fort William, this well-established route showcases the region’s lush glens and rolling mountains.
With careful planning and the help of a dedicated walking holiday organization, it’s possible to complete for beginners with moderate levels of fitness.
Day 1: Milngavie to Drymen
Distance: 12 miles
The journey begins in the suburban town of Milngavie, which is around 25 minutes away from Glasgow Airport (and even less from the city center). Very quickly, your walk opens up into the countryside. The initial section of the trail is relatively gentle, allowing hikers to find their rhythm and adjust mentally to the week ahead.
Passing through Mugdock Country Park, walkers are treated to their first glimpse of the picturesque landscapes that lie ahead. After 12 miles, you end up in the charming village of Drymen.
Day 2: Drymen to Rowardennan
Distance: 15 miles
As the trail leaves Drymen, hikers begin their ascent to Conic Hill, a prominent landmark offering views of Loch Lomond and the surrounding hills. This is a more difficult day, but the climb is rewarded with panoramic views that stretch across the loch’s waters and the distant mountain ranges.
The route then descends to the shores of Rowardennan, which has a peaceful atmosphere and countryside feel.
Day 3: Rowardennan to Inverarnan
Distance: 14 miles
The third day of the trek takes hikers along the shorelines of Loch Lomond, offering a more intimate connection with the loch’s pristine waters and surrounding woodlands. The trail heads through a series of undulating paths, with hidden bays and secluded beaches dotted throughout.
Along the way, you may encounter local red deer or osprey, among other wildlife, and so this is when the adventure begins to feel like you’re really in the wilderness. The village of Inverarnan provides a welcome respite where there is plenty of inviting accommodation options available.
Day 4: Inverarnan to Tyndrum
Distance: 12 miles
Leaving Inverarnan, the West Highland Way winds through Glen Falloch, where the River Falloch cuts through rocky outcrops. This is where the landscape begins to take a turn.
You’ll head through the surrounding mountains until you end up in the village of Tyndrum, known for its strategic location of various key Highland routes. This is where you will likely see other hikers on various routes and enjoy unwinding with a bit of socializing before tomorrow.
Day 5: Tyndrum to Kingshouse
Distance: 19 miles
The longest and most challenging stretch of the West Highland Way is the journey from Tyndrum to Kingshouse. This is sometimes broken up into two days, but many cut through it in one.
It’s perhaps the most visually stunning part of the trip, so you will feel a real sense of elation – this is many people’s peak, whether it’s peak tiredness, peak views, peak gratification, or all of the above.
The trail passes through the historic Bridge of Orchy, where the old military road once connected the Highlands to the Lowlands. Walkers are treated to views of Loch Tulla and the deep glens create a surreal backdrop.
The route then heads through the expanse of Rannoch Moor, which is one of the wildest and desolate parts of the entire trail, creating a sense of isolation.
Day 6: Kingshouse to Kinlochleven
Distance: 9 miles
In what is by design more than coincidence, day 6 slows down a little, with a slow-paced (but fairly steep) ascent up the aptly named Devil’s Staircase. This is challenging because you may still be feeling it from yesterday, but it’s a highly rewarding climb that offers unbeatable views over the iconic Glencoe Valley.
As the route descends into the charming village of Kinlochleven, you can enjoy the views from a different angle, plus the quaint village itself.
Day 7: Kinlochleven to Fort William
Distance: 16 mile
The final day of the West Highland Way begins with a significant ascent out of Kinlochleven. This is the final push towards stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the distant peak of Ben Nevis, which is the highest mountain in Britain.
The trail winds its way through a series of scenic forests, before offering one final chance to immerse yourself in the Highland’s natural beauty.
The trail ends in Fort William, which has a fairly bustling high street, making it ideal for a rewarding meal and drink to reflect on the past week.
Conclusion
The West Highland Way offers a well-optimized route through the highlands, condensing it down to a single week. Within the trail are both wilderness and amenities, making it the ideal trail for both beginners and experienced hikers.
