West Highland Way

About this trail

The West Highland Way runs from Milngavie on the outskirts of Glasgow northward to Fort William, tracing a route that takes walkers through some of the most dramatic and varied landscapes in Scotland. The trail begins in gentle rolling farmland, follows the eastern shore of Loch Lomond through ancient oak woodland, crosses the vast and exposed plateau of Rannoch Moor, and descends into Fort William via the Devil's Staircase above Kinlochleven — a progression that captures Scotland's full range, from pastoral lowlands to raw Highland wilderness. The terrain changes significantly as you head north: the early stages are mostly firm tracks and country lanes, but the sections along Loch Lomond involve rough, root-strewn and rocky lochside paths, and Rannoch Moor is notoriously boggy and exposed in poor weather. The route is well waymarked throughout with white thistle posts, making navigation straightforward in clear conditions, though a map and compass are worthwhile insurance on the open moor in mist or storm. Late May to early June offers the best balance of stable weather, long daylight hours, and manageable midges — by mid-summer these biting insects around Loch Lomond and Kinlochleven can be severe, especially in still, humid conditions, so carry repellent regardless of when you travel. Villages at regular intervals — Drymen, Balmaha, Rowardennan, Crianlarich, Tyndrum, Bridge of Orchy, and Kinlochleven — provide accommodation and resupply, but beds fill quickly in peak season and advance booking is strongly advised.