The West Highland Way
Discover the West Highland Way, a 154km trail through the stunning landscapes of Scotland. Starting in Milngavie, near Glasgow, and ending in Fort William, the journey spans about 7 to 8 days. With diverse terrains and picturesque towns, the West Highland Way offers an unforgettable hiking experience for those seeking a down-to-earth adventure in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
The perfect hike
To prepare for the Cape Wrath Trail, we decided to hike the West Highland Way. This trail is ideal for getting familiar with hiking, as it provides diverse terrain, varied weather, and convenient amenities like accommodation and supermarkets. It’s easily accessible by train, and there are plenty of options for shipping your luggage if needed. What adds to the appeal of the West Highland Way is the opportunity to climb Ben Nevis at the end of the hike, making it a perfect conclusion to this exciting adventure.
Scotland
Scotland is stunning but can be tough. While we believe most fit individuals with proper preparation can finish the West Highland Way, it can get challenging quickly. The persistent rain makes the path muddy and slippery, especially along Loch Lomond. In the wrong season (between June and August), midges can be a major issue (bring a headnet and spray!). The upside is that there are plenty of opportunities to warm up in cafes, restaurants, or hotels along the West Highland Way. Don’t be discouraged by these challenges. Check our logistics and gear pages for the West Highland Way for proper information on what to bring.
Ben nevis
As mentioned earlier, climbing Ben Nevis is a must when hiking the West Highland Way. It’s a 6-8 hour hike with beautiful views. Although the terrain for the most common route is not highly technical, it’s crucial to be well-prepared. We observed many people attempting the climb in sneakers, without proper clothing (the top was covered in snow), and without water or food. Once you reach the summit, it can get cold, and the weather becomes more unpredictable. Our recommendation is to visit the visitor center the day before your Ben Nevis hike to get updated on weather conditions and ensure you have the right gear.
