West Highland Way Route Breakdown
The West Highland Way is more than just a walk—it’s an adventure filled with stunning scenery, aching legs, unexpected friendships, and the sheer joy of reaching each stop. Whether you’re bounding with endless energy or dragging your weary feet towards a well-earned pint, every milestone brings challenge and triumph.
Let’s break down the route so you know exactly what to expect—from the excitement of the start line to the glory of the finish (and everything in between).
Milngavie (0 miles / 0 km) – The Excitement Begins!
Welcome to the official start of the West Highland Way! You’ll find yourself standing at the granite obelisk in Milngavie, full of enthusiasm, maybe slightly nervous, but mostly ready for an incredible adventure. The first few miles ease you in gently with lovely woodland trails and a sense of “Wow, I’m actually doing this!”
➡ Distance to Drymen: 12 miles / 19 km
Drymen (12 miles / 19 km) – The Warm-Up Phase
Congratulations, you’ve reached Drymen! Your legs have warmed up nicely by now, and the first pint at the Clachan Inn (Scotland’s oldest licensed pub) might start calling your name. But don’t get too comfy—Conic Hill awaits just ahead, and your first real views of Loch Lomond are about to take your breath away (literally and figuratively). Stock up on treats at Drymen Bakery & Deli before heading off.
➡ Distance to Balmaha: 7 miles / 11 km
Balmaha (19 miles / 30 km) – Hello, Loch Lomond!
That Conic hill climb was worth it. The reward? Stunning views over Loch Lomond, plus the satisfaction of knowing you conquered the first real challenge of the trail. You’ll find a welcoming atmosphere in Balmaha, a great place to grab food and drink and soak up the lochside magic before pressing on. This is your last shop for a while.
➡ Distance to Inverarnan: 20.5 miles / 33 km
Inverarnan (39.5 miles / 63 km) – Where Walkers and Ghosts Meet
After battling the twists and turns of Loch Lomond’s rugged shoreline, you’ll arrive in Inverarnan, home to the legendary Drovers Inn—an 18th-century pub full of eerie charm (and possibly a few ghosts). If your legs feel battered from the last section, whisky might help numb the pain.
➡ Distance to Tyndrum: 12.5 miles / 20 km
Tyndrum (52 miles / 83 km) – The Halfway Hero Moment
You’re over halfway, and that’s something to celebrate! Tyndrum is small but mighty, with great food stops (chippy, anyone?) and the feeling that you’re now deep in the Highlands. The next section offers wide-open moors and mountain views, so take a deep breath and soak it all in.
➡ Distance to Bridge of Orchy: 7 miles / 11 km
Bridge of Orchy (59 miles / 94 km) – A Wee Stop Before the Wilderness
Not so much a town as a resting place for weary wanderers, Bridge of Orchy is a brilliant spot to recharge. By now, you’ve accepted that your feet will never be the same, but you’ve also never felt more alive. Next up: the remote and dramatic Rannoch Moor.
➡ Distance to Kingshouse: 12 miles / 19 km
Kingshouse (71 miles / 114 km) – The Gateway to Greatness
You’ve made it through Rannoch Moor, one of Scotland’s wildest landscapes. It’s remote, stunning, and probably had you questioning your life choices at some point. Kingshouse Hotel offers a warm welcome, great food, and the company of cheeky red deer who are unusually friendly; they must have a soft spot for weary walkers!
➡ Distance to Kinlochleven: 9 miles / 14.5 km
Kinlochleven (80 miles / 129 km) – Almost There, Just One More Climb…
The most challenging climb of the journey? The Devil’s Staircase. Don’t let the name scare you—it’s steep but over quickly, and the views are outstanding. The descent into Kinlochleven is a knee-wobbler, but once you get there, a hot meal and a good sleep await. The finish line is nearly in sight!
➡ Distance to Fort William: 15 miles / 24 km
Fort William (96 miles / 154 km) – YOU DID IT!
The final stretch takes you through the Lairigmor Pass, with Ben Nevis looming in the distance. By now, your body is exhausted, and your legs are questioning their loyalty to you, but your heart? Your heart is soaring. When you reach the official finish in Fort William, expect cheers, hugs, and possibly happy tears. You’ve walked 96 miles across Scotland. You’re officially a legend, It's time to get a selfie with the well-named ‘Sore Feet’ statue.
