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Hike the West Highland Way: Scotland’s Iconic Long-Distance Trail

A 96mile (154km) adventure along loch shores and moors in the heart of Scotland.

The West Highland Way is an Ideal Trail for Adventurers and Nature Lovers.

Overview of the West Highland Way

The West Highland Way goes through Scotland’s ruggedly beautiful Highlands from Loch Lomond to Fort William. This well-maintained and clearly marked trail ensures you’re guided through while still offering a true sense of wilderness.

Expect to journey through a variety of stunning landscapes, from the tranquil shores of Loch Lomond to the expansive Rannoch Moor and the dramatic Glen Coe. You'll pass through picturesque villages, encounter ruins, and walk amidst towering mountains, all while feeling securely connected to civilization with regular checkpoints and accommodations along the route.

The trail's popularity means you'll likely meet fellow hikers, adding a sense of camaraderie, but its vast, open stretches still offer moments of solitude and reflection. 

Planning Your Hike on the western front way

  • Best Time to Hike the West Highland Way: Late spring to early autumn (April–September). Midge* season usually runs from May to September, with July and August being the worst months.
  • Trail Duration: 5–8 days, depending on pace.
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate, with some challenging sections.
  • What to Pack: Essentials like sturdy boots, weatherproof clothing, and a first-aid kit.

Accommodation Options on the West Highland Way

The West Highland Way offers a wide variety of accommodation to suit every hiker's preference, from cozy bed-and-breakfasts to scenic campsites.

Tips for Booking Accommodation

  • Plan Ahead: The trail is popular, especially in peak season (May–September), so book your accommodation in advance.
  • Hiker-Friendly Amenities: Look for places offering laundry services, drying rooms, and packed lunches.
  • Flexible Options: Many accommodations offer baggage transfer services, allowing you to hike light and enjoy the journey.

  • Here are several reputable baggage transfer operators that can assist you along the West Highland Way:

    1. AMS Scotland: A family-run business since 2001, AMS Scotland offers luggage transfer services for walkers and cyclists on the West Highland Way.

      Travel-Lite: Established in 1995 and based in Milngavie, Travel-Lite is the original West Highland Way baggage transfer service, providing reliable luggage transportation along the route.

    2. Baggage Freedom: Offering a personal and friendly service, Baggage Freedom provides baggage transfers along the entire trail for a flat fee. 

    3. Sherpa Van: Sherpa Van provides luggage transfer services along the West Highland Way, with options for full-route transfers and additional services for specific accommodations. 

      Highland Transfers: Highland Transfers offers door-to-door baggage transfer services along the West Highland Way, charging £65 per bag for the full route.

Getting to and from the West highland way

  • Starting Point: Milngavie (easily accessible by train from Glasgow).
  • Finish Point: Fort William (train or bus back to Glasgow or Edinburgh).
  • *Midges are small flying insects that are not harmful but can be forceful. They are attracted to CO2 emissions, body heat, movement, and exposed fleshy bits. Midge bites don't carry disease, but you will see the red bumps afterwards.
  • Here are some tips for dealing with midges:
    • Wear long sleeves: Wear long sleeve t-shirts or hiking trousers. Avoid dark colours. It's common practice to wear a midge head net. Use repellent: Use a good repellent and reapply throughout the day. Consider a DEET spray, which affects midges' carbon dioxide receptors. Take advantage of wind: Midges don't like to fly when there is a breeze. Wind speeds of as little as 8km/h can blow midges off course. 

West Highland Way: Trail Highlights

    • - Loch Lomond: 190m deep, it is Britain's largest freshwater lake. You will follow the scenic shoreline trail.
    • - Conic Hill: Panoramic views across the Highlands.
    • - Falls of Falloch: Perfect for cooling off weary, aching feet, and for the more adventurous, it’s an irresistible spot to take the plunge.
    • - Tyndrum: The village of Tyndrum is a well-known stop and offers several options for a bite to eat, including Tyndrum Inn. Meanwhile, the Green Welly Stop is your go-to destination for outdoor gear and all your resupply needs.
    • - Rannoch Moor: Discover remote, otherworldly beauty.
    • - Glen Coe: Voted the most romantic glen in Scotland with a haunting past. The Massacre of Glencoe took place here in 1692.
    • - Fort William: Gateway to Ben Nevis, the UK’s tallest mountain; the fort was used as a disembarkation point for those travelling to America during the Highland Clearances; and was the base from where royal forces hunted for Bonnie Prince Charlie.