Basic West Highland Way – Medium

This stretch of the West Highland Way leads you into the wilder, northern shores of Loch Lomond. The terrain gets tougher here, with rocky paths and steep climbs, but the raw beauty of the landscape makes every step worthwhile.

A true highlight awaits at Inversnaid, where a roaring waterfall tumbles into the loch. You’ll cross a footbridge just above the falls, with spray in the air and a soundtrack of rushing water below. Keep your eyes peeled along the way—you might spot wild goats scrambling over rocks or even glimpse a golden eagle circling overhead.

As the day winds down and Inverarnan comes into view, one thing’s for sure: you’ve earned your pint. The legendary Drovers Inn awaits with cold beers, warm stories, and fellow hikers who’ve just shared the same epic trail.

Leaving Inverarnan behind, the trail shifts into a new gear. Gone are the lochside scrambles. This is the beginning of mountain country. You’ll follow the River Falloch as it winds through a deep valley, catching a glimpse of the tumbling Falls of Falloch along the way.

At roughly the halfway mark, you’ll pass Crianlarich. The trail skirts the village, but a short detour brings you to food, drink, and maybe a proper coffee. Whether you stop or press on, you’ll feel the Highlands rising around you.

The route continues along the River Fillan, past the ruins of St Fillan’s Priory and its old graveyard at Kirkton Farm. From there, the path follows the River Cononish until you reach Tyndrum. Small, scenic, and a welcome end to today’s walk.

This stage of the West Highland Way rewards you with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Shortly after Tyndrum, you skirt along the steep slopes of Beinn Odhar and continue through the wide glen toward Bridge of Orchy. On your right, you’ll see the West Highland Railway, including one of its impressive stone viaducts, a reminder of Scottish engineering brilliance. From here the valley opens up and the trail leads you on a gentle descent toward the station at Bridge of Orchy.

After crossing the bridge, the trail joins the Old Military Road. A short climb brings you to a panoramic viewpoint with sweeping views across Loch Tulla and the Black Mount. Beyond Inveroran, the remote wilderness of Rannoch Moor begins to unfold in front of you.

At Forest Lodge, the trail begins to climb toward the edge of Rannoch Moor. Be ready for changeable weather, as this section is wide open and exposed. Crossing it can be tough in poor conditions. Halfway across the moor you’ll reach Ba Bridge, a great place for a break with open views all around. Just a short walk to the left of the bridge lies the ruin of Ba Cottage, an ideal lunch stop. The undulating trail continues across the moor, past the Glencoe Ski Centre, the picturesque Black Rock Cottage, and finally, Buachaille Etive Mor, one of Scotland’s most iconic mountains.

Today the path leads you toward Altnafeadh, near the foot of the mighty Buachaille Etive Mor. Just when you think the trail has settled, it turns sharply right. Welcome to the Devil’s Staircase. This steep zigzagging path climbs steadily to the highest point of the West Highland Way at 550 meters.

At the top, a simple mound of stones marks the summit, but the views are anything but ordinary. Look back and admire the towering silhouette of "The Buachaille." Ahead, the Mamores mountain range stretches into the distance, rugged and wild.

From here, the trail leads you through vast moorlands, with the descent into Kinlochleven offering dramatic views and well-earned rest at the end of this highland rollercoaster.

The day begins with a sharp climb out of Kinlochleven, waking up your legs for one last adventure. At the top, the path opens into Lairigmor, also known as The Great Pass. This wide valley curves north and guides you through forests and open landscapes toward Glen Nevis.

The trail continues through forest plantations and offers glimpses of Ben Nevis in the distance. Before the final descent into Fort William, you can take a short detour to explore Dun Deardail, the remains of an Iron Age fort perched above the glen.

From here, follow the trail down to the town below. Walk the last stretch through Fort William and head to Gordon Square. There you’ll find a bronze statue of a fellow hiker, marking the official end of the West Highland Way. You made it.

After breakfast, the journey comes to an end. Our package finishes here. Wishing you a safe and smooth trip home.