Embarking on your first West Highland Way adventure? This guide is your ultimate resource for preparing to hike Scotland’s most famous long-distance trail. Learn everything you need to know, from essential gear and packing tips to fitness preparation and route planning.
Traveling along West Highland Way (WHW) is an unforgettable experience that offers scenic views of the country. To some, it is an individual battle, a historical exploration, and a way to interact with the environment. Each year, more than 100,000 people walk part of the route, about 36,000 of them completely.
Regarding the first time you plan to go for a WHW trek, here are some tips that will make you ready for this marvellous journey.
You must understand the trail you want to conquer before putting on that pair of boots you have been saving for an occasion such as this. The West Highland Way normally takes between 5 to 8 days to complete, but you can take a little more time to explore the parts you are most interested in if you wish to. It has several phases and different types of terrains with some breathtaking sceneries and iconic places.
From the flatlands of Milngavie to the heights of Ben Nevis, the trail spans over rolling green hills, through picturesque lochs such as the famous Loch Lomond, across the challenging terrain of Rannoch Moor, and up into the highlands. You should get familiar with the route so that you can determine how many daily stages you are going to need, where to find accommodation, and where you can take breaks.
Covering 96 miles is no easy task, especially if one is used to short walks. Strength training for your body is paramount to enable you to enjoy the exercises without getting an injury. Start your training at least 8-12 weeks before the hike. Gradually increasing the distance and the level of difficulty of the walks makes it easier to develop your endurance.
Packing the Proper Equipment
A common challenge when packing for the West Highland Way is how to include everything you need without having to deal with a very heavy backpack.
When planning for a hiking trip, waterproof shoes or boots and sturdy soles with good ankle support are required. Another set of comfortable footwear such as shoes or sandals could also come in handy towards the evening. Make sure to pack additional socks, a hat, and gloves.
A backpack of 30-50 litres is recommended with a rain cover specially designed for your equipment. Ensure it is cozy and features straps that can be loosened or tightened.
A map, compass, and a guidebook are essential, even when the trail is easy to follow. A first aid kit, a headlamp, and a fully charged phone are recognized as safety tools. Bring snacks along the way and sufficient water for the walk. A water purifier or purification tablets will come in handy because water is easily accessible along the trail.
Checking the Weather
Perhaps the most well-known aspect of Scotland is its climate which is known to be changeable. It will take you from sunshine to rain, wind even sleet, and maybe snow all in a day. Managing all this is an important aspect if you are to have a good day out hiking. Make sure to look at the weather-predicting technology at least in the morning before you set off to the fieldwork. This may enable you to know what kind of attire to wear.
Choosing Your Accommodation
West Highland Way provides the means to get food and lodging that range from sleeping in a wilderness or bungalow to staying in a luxury lodge or guesthouse. So your decision will depend on your pocket, the comfort you would like, and how much you are willing to carry on your back.
Tented camping is allowed along most of the route, but in the Loch Lomond area (March to September), you will need a permit. Campgrounds and RV parks provide amenities such as showers and restrooms.
Hikers prefer them primarily because they are cheap to rent and also because they are public places. Some of them provide single occupancy, while others provide dormitory-style shared amenities.
However, if you want even more comfortable accommodation, there are hotels and places to stay in most of the villages you will be passing through. These options offer you a warm bed, better food, and a chance to relax.
It is recommended to book accommodation well in advance, especially during the peak season, which runs from May to September.
Preparing Mentally
Long-distance hiking is not just a test of the body but also the mind. It means there will be moments of tiredness, sweating with perhaps blisters and should they doubt, moments of doubt. Mentally, you can prepare yourself in a way that will alleviate the challenges of the journey and therefore enjoy it.
There will be hard days but also great days where accomplishments are made. Managing your expectations might help if you get tired quickly.
To conclude, West Highland Way is a place of breathtaking beauty where scenes from your favorite movies are filmed. The iconic Hogwarts Express steam train from the popular Harry Potter films has been filmed crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct. But, when planning your first hike on the West Highland Way, make sure you are physically prepared for the challenge and mentally. Whether a hiker wants to enjoy a solitary vacation in the Scottish countryside or keep company with like-minded people walking the same route, the West Highland Way represents the most appropriate opportunity to enjoy one of the most beautiful regions in the world.
