- What is the West Highland Way? Read More
It is Scotland’s first official long-distance route, globally iconic and also the most well known, for good reason.
- Where is the route located? Read More
The West Highland Way route is a 154km/96 mile long walking route between Milngavie and Fort William. The trail travels along the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond, across the atmospheric Rannoch Moor, past dramatic Glencoe and onwards to finish at the foot of Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain.
- Where does the West Highland Way start? Read More
The route traditionally starts in the centre of Milngavie, a town found 6 miles outside of Glasgow. The start is marked with an obelisk on the pedestrianised Douglas Street. The route can also be walked from Fort William to Milngavie.
- Where does the West Highland Way end? Read More
Traditionally the route ends in the centre of Fort William at Gordon Square. The end of the route was moved up from its original endpoint on the fringes of Fort William in 2010. The end is marked by a bench, statue and stone map. You can also walk the route starting in Fort William and finishing in Milngavie.
- West Highland Way Accommodation? Read More
There are various accommodation options available along the route like B&Bs, hotels, and inns. Sometimes it may be difficult to get a room in the town where the section finishes that day, so walkers may have to walk, use public transport, or taxi to nearby towns and villages for accommodation. Many walkers also camp along the way, with campsites and wild camping options en-route.
- What shoes do you need for the trail? Read More
Worn-in walking boots. To avoid blisters and cramped up feet, they should be waterproof and give good ankle support. Have a read of Best Footwear for Hiking in Scotland.
- Are there midges? Read More
We’re not going to lie. There can be. But to be honest, as you’re constantly on the move you’re not bothered much by midges. If it’s a real concern for you, consider going in April, early May, or September. Midges are less active in these months.
More information on midges
- How long is the West Highland Way? Read More
The West Highland Way is 154 km/96 miles long. The exact distance every walker ends up doing daily depends on where their accommodation is and how they’re getting to it.
- What is the best time of year to walk the trail? Read More
The iconic route can be walked year-round, and every month has a different benefit to offer, but baggage transfer services are functioning between April and October. We recommend April as it’s less busy, there are no midges, and it’s generally quite mild which is pleasant for walking.
- Is the West Highland Way hilly? Read More
Yes, the West Highland Way goes over the top of several large hills, and has steeply undulating sections, making a cumulative elevation of 3,154m. All days have a minimum of 250m of ascent, with an average day rounding in at 450m.
- Which OS maps do I need for the West Highland Way? Read More
You will need a range of OS Maps if you’re walking the trail by yourself and unguided. The OS explorer maps 392, 384, 377, OL39, OL38 and 348 would be a good investment, as well as landranger maps 41, 50, 56, 57, and 64.
- What wildlife will I see along the way? Read More
It’s all dependent on the time of year, weather, and other factors but you’re likely to encounter red deer along the way, as well as plenty of sheep, foxes, stoats, squirrels, wild goats, highland cattle, and even adders. All of these animals are found in the west highlands, some like the red squirrel and stoats, are more elusive than others. Adders are the only common snake found in Scotland and it’s unlikely that they’ll harm you unless provoked. If you’re lucky enough to see some of these creatures please keep a respectful distance and try not to disturb their activities. This is for their safety as much as your own. If you turn your eyes to the sky you can also see birds like kestrels, buzzards, grouse, golden eagles, bats, and more common inland birds like crested tits, willow warblers, and chiffchaffs.