KEY TRAIL STATS for “CLASSIC” ROUTE

• Country: Scotland, United Kingdom

• Number of days: Typically 5 - 8

• Distance: 154 km / 97 mi

• Elevation gain: 3,650m / 12,000ft (North direction)

• Highest point: 550m / 1,800ft (Devil’s Staircase)

• Peak Season: April to October (although it’s possible to hike year round)

• Difficulty: Easy to moderate

• Traffic: High

• Official start location: Milngavie, just outside of Glasgow

• Official end location: Fort William

The West Highland Way offers diverse accommodation options catering to different preferences and budgets:

1. Hotels and Guesthouses: Comfortable, full-service stays with private amenities, typically in larger towns like Milngavie, Tyndrum, and Fort William. Ideal for those seeking comfort but may require advance booking and can be pricier.

2. Bed and Breakfasts (B&Bs): Family-run with breakfast included, offering a homely atmosphere. Widely available along the route, they provide a personal touch and valuable local advice but have limited rooms.

3. Hostels: Budget-friendly with shared or private rooms, found in places like Rowardennan and Kinlochleven. Good for social interaction and self-catering, but shared spaces may not suit everyone.

4. Camping and Campsites: The most affordable option, allowing for a close-to-nature experience with basic facilities. Available at key points like Balmaha and Bridge of Orchy, but requires carrying gear and dealing with weather conditions.

5. Bothies: Basic, free shelters in remote areas without amenities. Great for adventurers but space is limited and first-come, first-served.

6. Pods and Glamping: Comfortable alternatives to camping with more amenities, available in spots like Drymen. Offers a mix of outdoor experience and comfort but at a higher cost than regular camping.

7. Self-Catering Cottages and Cabins: Equipped with kitchens and more space, perfect for groups or families. Found in places like Tyndrum and Fort William, but often require early booking and can be expensive.

How long is the West Highland Way trail?

The “classic” route from Milngavie to Fort William is 154km / 96mi with 3,650m / 12,000ft in elevation gain and loss, hiking in the North direction. 

It typically takes between 5 and 8 days to complete the West Highland Way. It depends on your hiking speed, the desired number of hiking hours per day, inclusion of any alternative routes, and whether you will use transport to skip ahead.

The best time to hike the West Highland Way is generally during the late spring to early autumn, specifically between April and October.

Here’s a breakdown of what to expect during different parts of the season:

1. Late Spring (April to June)

• Pros: This is considered one of the best times to hike. The weather is often more stable, with milder temperatures and longer daylight hours. The landscapes are lush and green, and wildflowers are in bloom.

• Cons: The midges (small biting insects) are not as prevalent early in this period, making it more comfortable for hikers.

2. Summer (July to August)

• Pros: The weather is warmest during these months, and daylight hours are at their peak, allowing for long days of hiking. Many services and accommodations are fully operational.

• Cons: This is also the peak season, so the trail can be busier. Midges are at their worst, especially in the evening and in areas near water or boggy terrain, so insect repellent is essential.

3. Early Autumn (September to October)

• Pros: The crowds start to thin out, and the midge season is coming to an end. The weather can still be favorable, with cooler but comfortable temperatures, and the landscape begins to change with beautiful autumnal colors.

• Cons: Daylight hours start to decrease compared to the summer months, so careful planning of hiking days is needed.

4. Winter (November to April)

• Pros: Trail is much quieter

• Cons: Weather conditions can be unpredictable and harsh, with increased chances of rain, snow, and strong winds. Short daylight hours and potential snow on higher ground make hiking more difficult. Some facilities and accommodations may also be closed during this period.

The West Highland Way is one of Scotland’s most popular long-distance hiking trails, attracting 50,000+ walkers each year from around the world. Its popularity has grown steadily since it was officially opened in 1980. 

Why is it so popular?

• Scenic beauty: The route offers some of the most stunning landscapes in Scotland and its diverse terrains—from woodlands to mountain passes—make it a visual feast for hikers, contributing to its broad appeal

• Difficulty: While challenging in parts, it's not as technically demanding as some other famous trails, such as Tour du Mont Blanc or Alta Via 1 Dolomites, making it suitable for both seasoned trekkers and enthusiastic beginners. The trail is well-marked, with excellent facilities and infrastructure, making it an attractive option for those new to long-distance hiking.

• Accessibility: Its proximity to Glasgow (starting point) and Fort William (end point) makes it easy for both local and international visitors to access. 

Due to its popularity, most hikers choose to book accommodations ahead of time, reducing the logistical challenges and enhancing the experience.

Key Factors Affecting Difficulty

1.Distance and Duration:

• The full route covers 96 miles (154 kilometers) and typically takes 5–8 days to complete, averaging about 12–20 miles (19–32 kilometers) per day depending on the hiker’s plan.

• Breaking it into more days with shorter distances per day makes it more manageable, while completing it in fewer days increases the challenge.

2. Terrain:

• The trail covers varied terrain, including paved paths, forest trails, rocky and uneven paths, and boggy moorland.

• Sections like Rannoch Moor are remote and exposed, offering beautiful but potentially challenging hiking, especially in poor weather.

3. Weather Conditions:

• Scotland’s weather can be highly unpredictable, with sudden rain, wind, and fog, even in the warmer months.

• Good preparation with waterproof gear and layered clothing is essential to handle changes in weather.

4. Midges:

• From late spring to late summer, midges can be an annoyance, particularly in the mornings and evenings, adding a layer of discomfort if not prepared with repellent.

Yes, there are several transport shortcuts and alternatives available along the West Highland Way for hikers who want to skip sections of the trail, shorten the overall distance, or simply avoid challenging terrain. You can utilise buses, trains, ferries, taxis and private transfers to skip ahead along the trail. These transport options can be helpful in case of bad weather, fatigue, or time constraints.

Our planning app and GPS map include all transport schedules and costs for the upcoming season.