2024 · 96 miles · 7 days

The West Highland Way

Ninety-six miles from the outskirts of Glasgow to the foot of Ben Nevis, carrying everything and wildcamping most nights. Loch Lomond's shore is the hardest day and nobody warns you about it.

Day 1: The Beginning

Milngavie → Drymen · 12 miles

Started from the obelisk in Milngavie town centre. The first day eases you in gently through Mugdock Country Park and past Craigallian Loch. Rolling farmland and woodland paths lead to the village of Drymen.

  • Mugdock Country Park
  • Craigallian Loch
  • First glimpse of the Highlands

Day 2: Conic Hill

Drymen → Rowardennan · 14 miles

The climb up Conic Hill rewards with the first stunning views of Loch Lomond and the islands below. Descending to Balmaha, then following the loch shore through ancient oak woodland to Rowardennan.

  • Conic Hill summit
  • Loch Lomond views
  • Highland Boundary Fault

Day 3: The Loch Shore

Rowardennan → Inverarnan · 14 miles

The toughest day on the trail. Rocky, rooty paths cling to the loch shore, constantly undulating. The terrain is relentless but the views across the water make every step worthwhile.

  • Rob Roy's Cave
  • Inversnaid Falls
  • Wild loch shore walking

Day 4: Glen Falloch

Inverarnan → Tyndrum · 13 miles

Leaving Loch Lomond behind, the path follows the River Falloch through the glen. Waterfalls cascade down from the hills. The landscape opens up as you approach Tyndrum.

  • Falls of Falloch
  • Glen Falloch
  • Real Food Cafe in Tyndrum

Day 5: Rannoch Moor

Tyndrum → Kingshouse · 19 miles

The longest day takes you across the vast emptiness of Rannoch Moor. Ancient Caledonian pines give way to endless bog and heather. The Kingshouse Hotel appears like a mirage after hours of wilderness.

  • Bridge of Orchy
  • Rannoch Moor crossing
  • Views of Buachaille Etive Mor

Day 6: The Devil's Staircase

Kingshouse → Kinlochleven · 9 miles

The famous zigzag climb up the Devil's Staircase is the highest point on the Way. From the top, the view back to the Buachaille and across Glencoe is unforgettable. A steep descent into Kinlochleven.

  • Devil's Staircase summit
  • Glencoe panorama
  • Kinlochleven aluminium history

Day 7: The Final Push

Kinlochleven → Fort William · 15 miles

The last day climbs through the Lairig Mor before a long forest descent towards Fort William. Ben Nevis looms ahead. Touching the statue at the end brings a rush of emotion and accomplishment.

  • Lairig Mor
  • First view of Ben Nevis
  • The finish line statue