West Highland Way: 9-Day Gentle Hike

DAY 1: Arrival in Inverarnan

From your point of arrival, use the public transport information we provide to make the journey to Inverarnan.

DAY 2: Inverarnan to Crianlarich

Distance 11km • Approximate Walking Time 3 - 4 hours • Ascent (↑) 200m

A gently ascending track leads you away from Inverarnan and up the River Falloch Valley with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. A junction on the trail allows you to descend along a spur into the village of Crianlarich – the halfway point of the hike.

DAY 3: Crianlarich to Tyndrum

11km • 3 - 4 hours • (↑) 200m

From Crianlarich, climb uphill to re-join the trail. Continue along a quiet forest track before the trail eventually descends to a farm where you pass the ruins of St Fillan’s Priory founded by Scottish hero Robert the Bruce in the 14th Century.

DAY 4: Tyndrum to Inveroran

15km • 4 - 5 hours • (↑) 350m

The trail from Tyndrum to Bridge of Orchy follows the railway line through a beautiful glen. From Bridge of Orchy, you leave civilisation behind as you enter one of the more remote sections of the route. The views from Mam Carraig over Tulla Loch are terrific – just make sure to have the battery charged for your camera!

DAY 5: Inveroran to Kingshouse

14km • 4 - 6 hours • (↑) 330m

Hiking across the exposed Rannoch Moor may be the most enjoyable day of your trip or, if the weather misbehaves, the most challenging. When the sun shines, the views of the

surrounding mountains are stunning. When it rains, there’s nowhere to hide. Either way, the trip will be memorable! 

DAY 6: Kingshouse to Kinlochleven

16km • 4 - 6 hours • ↑ 550m

Today’s hike features a climb known locally as The Devil’s Staircase. With a name like that, it’s safe to assume that your legs are going to get a good work-out! But, here’s a little secret – it’s not that bad. And the views from the top over the Ben Nevis Mountain range more than make up for it.

DAY 7: Kinlochleven to Lundavra

12.5km • 3 - 5 hours • ↑ 300m

A steep climb out of Kinlochleven gets the adrenaline flowing pretty quickly but as always, the spectacular scenery is adequate compensation. After the initial climb, an old military road rambles gently through the magnificent Glen Nevis valley. You will be picked up from an information board in Lundavra and brought to your accommodation in Fort William.

DAY 8: Lundavra to Fort William

12km • 3 - 5 hours • ↑ 200m

Returning to Lundavra, you set off towards the formidable peak of Ben Nevis which looms before you. But don’t worry, you’re on the Gentle Hike – you can admire it without climbing it! Instead, you follow quiet forest paths which eventually descend into the town of Fort William.

Day 9: Departure from Fort William

There are regular bus and train services from Fort William to Glasgow and onwards to Edinburgh. Full details provided upon booking.