The Ultimate West Highland Way Itinerary for First-Time Hikers
If you are looking for stunning surroundings, the West Highland Way is truly unbeatable. In fact, this famous hiking trail ranks so highly that some people put it on their bucket list.
However, like any walking trail, it is vital to come prepared to make the most of your journey and avoid problems. Read on to find out more about the trail and how to prepare for this feat of endurance.
What you Need to Know About the West Highland Way
Recorded as being the first designated long-distance trail in Scotland, the West Highland Way is 96 miles long if you stay strictly on the trail. However, many decide to make short stop-offs along the way, visiting bunkhouses, seeking out supplies and detouring to viewing areas. With this in mind, most prepare for a 100-mile hike.
The total ascent of the trail is 4,019m, with a steeper second half. The Devil’s Staircase is the way’s highest point at 548m.
On average, it takes hikers approximately 5 to 10 days to complete the trail.
The trail starts in Milngavie, a town 7.5 miles away from Glasgow. This town has plenty of amenities available to help you stock up and prepare for the hike.
The trail begins at a granite obelisk in the centre of the town. You should then follow the signs north through Mugdock Wood.
The trail’s official end is at a sign in Fort William. However, some decide to walk a little further into the centre of town to find the statue of The Walker. This figure is sat on a bench, rubbing his aching feet, making this landmark a fitting end.
Since the route is well signposted, it can easily be navigated by those with low levels of experience. However, it is a moderate long-distance trail, meaning a good level of fitness is highly recommended.
There are some challenging parts of the West Highland Way. These include:
- The walk up the Devil’s Staircase.
- The climb over Conic Hill, which provides wonderful views of Loch Lomond.
- A rocky, uneven area around the shore of Loch Lomond.
- The steep route into Fort William.
The Best Time to Walk the Trail
In general, most hikers opt to walk the trail during spring or autumn. Not only is the trail less crowded, the landscape is stunning, with beautiful wildflowers on show in spring and rich colours in autumn. Additionally, these times avoid the hot sun and midges associated with summer.
Whatever time of year you go, you are sure to find gorgeous scenery. If you're packing for the trail, our guide to dressing for changeable Highland weather is a handy starting point, even though it was written with a different corner of the Highlands in mind.
Making the Most of the West Highland Way
There are endless ways to complete the West Highland Way, depending on what you want your experience to look like. It is important to choose your own adventure before setting off. Some decide to speed through the trail in just a few days while others spread the journey across two weeks to maintain a leisurely pace. Some book accommodation and meals for every part of the journey while others embrace the wilderness by camping instead. You may even want to stop off in towns or attractions along the way.
Whatever you choose, make sure you are adequately prepared and you book any places to stay well in advance to avoid disappointment.
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