Hiking the West Highland Way on vacation is a marvelous chance to experience the remarkable beauty of the Scottish Highlands.
The West Highland trail winds through epic nature, meandering from Milngavie to Fort William. Around each bend, a new landscape unfolds – revealing yet another magnificent and mesmerizing sight.
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While the West Highland hiking trail can be intimidating, it is one of the best long walks in Scotland. To help you incorporate trekking the West Highland Way into your vacation, we are sharing our top tips!
Hiking the West Highland Way Scotland: FAQs
Before we embarked on our journey, we had a lot of questions. So to begin, we are answering some frequently asked ones.
First, we are going to cover some logistics. Then, share our advice for planning WHW hiking trips in Scotland as part of a longer vacation.
How Long is Each Section of the WHW in Miles?
The sections of the West Highland Way are not set in stone. That said, dividing the 96-mile trail into 8 days results in a daily stage length of 9 to 15 miles.
1: Milngavie to Drymen = 12 miles
2: Drymen to Rowardennan = 15 miles
3: Rowardennan to Inverarnan = 14 miles
4: Inverarnan to Tyndrum = 12 miles
5: Tyndrum to Inveroran = 9 miles
6: Inveroran to Kingshouse = 10 miles
7: Kingshouse to Kinlochleven = 9 miles
8: Kinlochleven to Fort William = 15 miles
Bear in mind that there are various ways to alter the above outline. Days can be combined with stops in alternate towns – such as Balmaha, Inversnaid, Crianlarich and Bridge of Orchy.
For example, some combine the first three days into two – hiking from Milngavie to Balmaha (20 miles) and then from Balmaha to Inverarnan (21 miles).
How Long Does the West Highland Way Take?
Serious trekkers can complete the hike in just 4 days, while others spend up to 10 days on the trail. How many days you take depends on several factors, but will mostly be determined by fitness level and objectives.
Some approach it as a test of strength and speed. Others are simply out to enjoy the stunning Scottish scenery and make frequent stops.
How Long Do You Walk Each Day?
Most will walk a minimum of 10 miles per day. If you’re not camping, it’s sometimes the required distance to get from one accommodation to the next.
That said, how long you spend hiking is totally up to you…and, in many ways, will be dependent on where you choose to stay.
Some opt to mix longer 20-plus-mile days with shorter 12-mile treks, while others (like us) are more comfortable walking 10-15 miles each day.
Should I Walk the WHW North or South?
The walk can be completed in either direction – but the traditional start and finish points are Milngavie and Fort William, respectfully. So, most people travel northbound.
When is the Best Time to Walk the West Highland Way?
Trying to figure this out is a bit of a conundrum. Blustery wind, heavy rain and pesky midges can all have an impact.
Generally speaking, the best window is from May through August – which is also when it’s the busiest. Hiking in April, September and October might see fewer people, but increases the chance of foul weather.
Hiking the WHW in winter is possible, but is only advisable for experienced, long-distance walkers.
What is the Best Part of West Highland Way?
This walk is highlighted by incredible nature throughout the route. However, it is regularly touted that the portion north from Tyndrum is the best.
Not only is the scenery stunning, but the northern half of the trail is fairly easy (in comparison to the southern section).
How Hard is the West Highland Way?
The difficulty level will depend on your personal fitness level and the natural elements. The length of your daily walk and how much you carry will also have an impact.
Personally, we found the trek to be slightly easier than anticipated, but we lucked out with fantastic weather and had been hiking regularly the weeks prior.
The inclined sections (like Conic Hill, Devil’s Staircase and out of Kinlochleven) can be trying, but these ascents are not technically rated as difficult.
Likewise, long bouts of decline (into Kinlochleven and Fort William) can be impactful on joints, but overall we didn’t find the trail itself too challenging.
If you have never hiked a long-distance trail before, it is best to train by walking 10-plus miles on consecutive days prior to heading out.
Should I Stay in a Hotel or Camp?
While camping on the West Highland Way is a unique experience, it can be problematic for those on vacation.
The main issue being packing, and figuring out how to take everything you will need for your trip to Scotland, plus camping gear. Therefore, we recommend booking hotels.
How Far in Advance Should You Plan?
One might assume this hike can be planned on a whim. That is not true – especially for those staying in hotels. Places are scarce and completely booked out far in advance.
In order to secure a room – especially during the summer months – early planning is required. We booked our West Highland Way accommodation 7 months prior to our trip.
What Specialized Hiking Gear is Necessary?
We spent a long time questioning what we needed – even just 4 days. In the end, we opted to go with a minimalist mindset and invested in only a few things before we set off.
However, each individual needs to decide for themselves what is worth having. We share our packing list later that breaks down exactly what we carried.
What About My Luggage?
Fortunately, there are a couple of options for those who need to find storage for their excess stuff.
Bag transfer is a fabulous option for vacationing hikers. The company picks up your luggage each morning and transports it to your next stop, so it’s there waiting for you when you arrive.
We opted to store our excess luggage at the hotel in Fort William we would be staying in after completing the hike. They stored 3 pieces (no charge) for 4 days.
Our Ideal West Highland Way Hike on Vacation
Now we are outlining what we feel works best for travelers who want to walk the WHW on vacation!
Day 1: Tyndrum to Inveroran
- Distance: 9 Miles
- Time Hiking: 5 hours
What To Expect
This trek is a lovely introduction to the West Highland Way – as the route is undemanding and surrounded by beautiful scenery.
Tyndrum can be accessed by train (via both the Lower or Upper Stations) from Glasgow and Fort William (as well as Oban and Mallaig).
Pop into the Green Welly Stop for any last-minute necessities (they have bathrooms, too) – then start your trek!
The trail follows the train tracks and A82 Highway past the Allt Kinglass Viaduct through Glen Orchy, joining the Old Military Road.
Cross the stone, arched Bridge of Orchy – which dates to 1751 – and consider taking a break at one of the picnic tables on the riverside.
From the Bridge of Orchy, continue on with a gradual climb followed by a few zig-zags, eventually leading up to a cairn with epic views.
A bit further on there is a lone tree overlooking stunning Loch Tulla. From there, it’s a gentle descent into the oasis of Inveroran.
Where We Stayed: Inveroran Hotel
A historic property in an idyllic location, this is an exceptional place to stay. In addition to the amazing staff and cozy rooms, the restaurant serves exquisite Scottish cuisine. (We loved the haggis, neeps and tatties!)
Plus, the beer garden is a delightful place to wind down and socialize and the included breakfast was our favorite of the hike!
Top Tip: Inveroran Hotel also has a small shop to pick up any necessities.
Day 2: Inveroran to Kingshouse
- Distance: 10 Miles
- Time Hiking: 5 hours
What To Expect
This stretch is just as wonderfully scenic as the first day – if not even a bit more picturesque. Remote and exposed, the walk winds through the wide-open spaces of Rannoch Moor.
Ba Bridge, enveloped in a thicket of trees and straddling a tumbling brook, is a good halfway point for a rest.
From the bridge, the path resembles a ribbon on the landscape, leading the way toward the Glencoe Ski Center.
As the trail edges toward Kingshouse, a phenomenal panorama of the much-photographed Buachaille Etive Mor – one of Scotland’s most evocative mountains – comes into view.
Where We Stayed: Kingshouse Hotel
Offering unparalleled mountain views and lovely rooms (at steep prices), Kingshouse is an excellent place to relax and recharge.
The modern rooms feature large windows and unique amenities – like a welcome cocktail and robes. For food and beverages, the hotel hosts a formal dining room, a cozy lounge and rustic bar-slash-café with outdoor picnic tables.
Plus, the included breakfast is an all-you-can-eat extravaganza of filling Scottish breakfast favorites!
Top Tip: Those who prefer not to pay the exorbitant rates can opt for a bed in the Bunkhouse.
Day 3: Kingshouse to Kinlochleven
- Distance: 9 Miles
- Time Hiking: 5 hours
What To Expect
This is a challenging, yet oh-so rewarding trek. Not long after departing Kingshouse, you tackle the inclined switchbacks of Devil’s Staircase.
The top marks the highest point on the West Highland Way at 1,800 feet. The sensational vista features Buachaille Etive Mor to the south and the magnificent Mamores Mountains to the north.
The trail then evens out for quite some time, weaving through a moorland that was blanketed in the purple hues of flowering heathers.
Nearing Kinlochleven, you are faced with a long sloping stroll along the mountain road into the valley.
On the final approach into town (after crossing over the large water pipes), find the slightly hidden trail marker that leads to the River Leven. The route dips down into a park before taking you into the heart of Kinlochleven.
Where We Stayed: The Tailrace Inn
This classic village hotel is far from elegant, but more than adequate. It offers basic rooms, a hearty (included) breakfast and a jovial pub atmosphere. Plus, it is literally on the trail.
That said, if the weather is nice, we recommend taking a short walk to The Bothy Bar at the MacDonald Hotel for a drink-with-a-view of the serene Loch Leven.
If you still have some pep in your step, consider detouring up to Grey Mares Waterfall!
Top Tip: The Co-Op grocery store in Kinlochleven is a popular place to restock for your final day.
Day 4: Kinlochleven to Fort William
- Distance: 15 Miles
- Time Hiking: 7 Hours
What To Expect
We found the last day to be a bit long, achingly beautiful, arduous and ultimately…anti-climatic.
After the initial and taxing ascent through a birch forest, the path opens up for fine views of Loch Leven from above.
As the trail levels out, it meanders through Lairig Mor (The Great Pass), making its way past abandoned structures and through swaths of trees.
The way then leads you into the rolling terrain of Glen Nevis, where waterfalls and wildflowers are both in abundance.
On a clear day, Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK standing at 4,400 feet, will make a dramatic appearance. This was the absolute highlight of the day for us!
From there, the route see-saws along and eventually climbs up to join a gravel road. Here there is an option to detour to the site of the ancient Dun Deardail Fort.
The loose rock track then zigzags down towards the finish line (that is still quite a far way off).
The end of the WHW is not particularly pretty and eventually spits hikers out onto a sidewalk for the long slog into the center of Fort William.
Finally arriving at a busy roundabout, a sign marks the ‘Original End of the West Highland Way’.
To truly complete the final stage, continue on to High Street until reaching Gordon Square and the bronze statue of ‘The Man with Sore Feet’, the official end since 2010.
Just behind the statue is the Black Isle Bar, which is the perfect place to celebrate with a pint of craft beer and pizza!
Pro Tip: Joining the Cow Hill Trail above the Braveheart Car Park, while not the official West Highland Way, is said to be a more scenic route into Fort William.
Where We Stayed: The Garrison
Clean and stylish, this former jail-turned-hotel is just steps beyond the West Highland Way finish line. The small rooms are clean and modern and the delicious, included breakfast offers a nice variety of choices.
West Highland Way Map
Use this link to Google for an online version of our Map of the West Highland Way below. Note that the Stars indicate our recommended route on the Northern Section of the trail.
The West Highland Way is easy to follow and fairly well-marked. The trail posts typically bear the WHW logo of a thistle between two arrows.
What To Pack for Your West Highland Walk
Deciding what to pack is incredibly personal – and everyone has an opinion about what you need and what you don’t.
Being prepared is necessary…but overpacking is not. When planning what to carry, the weight of your bag is of the utmost importance.
Even if using a luggage transfer service, you need to carefully consider what to take in your day pack.
For vacationers hiking 4 days of the North WHW route, we recommend keeping things as minimalist as possible.
Durable Shoes
Although we typically pack versatile shoes for traveling, we upgraded our footwear for the West Highland Way and purchased good hiking shoes.
We bought them 3 months in advance so that we had plenty of time to break them in (which can be absolutely crucial). That said, I still managed to get five blisters!
Hiking Gear
In the end, we opted not to bring hiking sticks, a headlamp or binoculars – although we understand that many people would not go out on the WHW without these items!
Basic First Aid Kit
At minimum, it is best to carry some type of pain reliever, antibacterial hand gel or wipes, and various size bandages.
Gaffer tape, moleskin, gauze pads and an anti-blister stick are other useful items. On the trail, if you feel a blister forming, stop and take care of it immediately!
Scotland Weather Gear
The weather in the Scottish Highlands is notoriously rainy, yet completely unpredictable – and the West Highland Way leaves you extremely exposed to the elements.
A waterproof coat is necessary – one that will keep both the wind and rain from penetrating through. Many hikers also wore water resistant pants, but we did not.
Additionally, a backpack cover, waterproof pouch or larger dry bag is highly recommended to keep everything inside your bag dry.
Midge Protection
These relentless, biting insects travel in swarms – and are most likely to appear when the weather conditions are still and humid.
Insect repellent can be a good deterrent, but hikers caught in a swarm are best protected with a midge net head covering.
Quick Dry Clothing
Wearing quick dry clothing on the trail helps pull moisture from your skin. Plus, it ensures that if you do get caught in a rainstorm, it won’t take long to dry out.
Ample Water
Staying hydrated is a must; we heard too many stories of walkers becoming ill from dehydration. Based on our previous 10-plus-mile hikes in Scotland, we decided to each carry 1.5 liters per day.
We had more than enough on the first three days and drank all 3 liters on the last day. These collapsible, refillable water bottles are great for traveling hikers!
Snacks and Lunch
Granola bars, apples and trail mix are good snacks to have on any trail – and we brought plenty for our hike.
We assumed that we would also purchase a to-go lunch from our hotels before starting off each morning, but it turned out that we didn’t need the extra food.
After the incredibly filling breakfasts, we mostly ate granola bars and trail mix during the day.
Toilets
Bathrooms are few and far between – especially along the northern section of the WHW. You will most likely need a call to nature along the trail (but never by a stream) – so it’s best to bring toilet paper.
And, of course, do not litter! Carry a small resealable baggie to carry the used paper in and dispose of it properly.
My Packing List for West Highland Way
For our trek, I (Sarah) carried my standard 50L backpack (which is what I always use instead of a suitcase) – but I only filled it partially.
Additionally, I wore a hip pack so that items that I wanted close by were within easy reach.
Sarah’s WHW Clothes Packing List
- 3 Quick Dry T-Shirts (I handwashed one to re-wear)
- 1 Quick Dry Long Sleeve Shirt
- 1 Quick Dry Hiking Shorts
- 1 Workout Leggings
- 4 Pairs of Breathable Underwear
- 2 Sports Bras
- 5 Pairs of Moisture Wicking Socks
- Waterproof Raincoat
- Lightweight Fleece Jacket
- Thin Ear Warmer Headband
I also packed one outfit that I wore each evening. It was really nice to have something to change into once we arrived each evening!
More Useful Information for the West Highland Way
West Highland Way Official Website: The official WHW website offers even more tips along with technical advice for hikers at all fitness levels.
Walk Highlands: A top site for hikes in the Scottish Highlands, Walk Highlands offers detailed trail info on the WHW and other area treks.
West Highland Way Private Facebook Group: This is a fantastic place to ask questions! You will need to request to join.
West Highland Way Guidebook: This printed Footprint Map has excellent information, but those looking for more details should purchase the Trailblazer Guide.
Travel Tips for Planning a Scotland Vacation
We have shared our top tips for WHW treks as part of a longer vacation – but we have detailed guides for traveling around Scotland, as well!
- 10 Day Scotland Itinerary
- Travel Tips for Scotland
- How To Spend 3 Days in Edinburgh – plus What and Where to Eat
- Glasgow in One Day
- What To Do in Inverness and the Highlands
- The Best Things To Do in Skye (including Portree and our Complete Sky Itinerary)
- Spend a Day in Plockton or Dunbar
- Coastal Walks Near Aberdeen
Organize Your Scotland Trip
As you begin making plans for your getaway to Scotland, organization is key. We recommend using our Printable Travel Planner to sort all the details!
Start planning your trip to the UK! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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