These two West Highland Way trails are relatively easy and safe for beginners, including solo female hikers. The West Highland Trail is a 154 km hiking trail that starts in Milngavie and finishes in Fort William. It is probably the most famous trail in Scotland.
Can a beginner walk the West Highland Way?
Venturing along 96-miles of natural terrain, ascending mountains and descending river beds may seem daunting to those who are unfamiliar with long-distance walking, but the West Highland Way is suitable for everyone, even beginners.
What is the hardest part of the West Highland Way?
When looking at the map many people think the side of Loch Lomond will be a gentle walk along the shore, however it is the most difficult section of the walk.
How difficult is it to cycle the West Highland Way?
Can I cycle the West Highland Way? You can but it is worth noting that the West Highland Way was designed as a long distance walking route and consequently cyclists will come across terrain, underpasses and gates which were designed specifically for walkers.
How many calories do you burn walking the West Highland Way?
During a 15-mile walk you’re likely to burn somewhere in the region of 1,100 calories.
How fit do you have to be to do the West Highland Way?
People take on average from five to 10 days (that’s an average of 19 miles or 9.5 miles each day). You need to be able to walk a little further than your longest day before you set out on your WHW multi-day trip. If you are in any doubt about your health, consult your doctor before starting a new fitness challenge.
Are there midges on the West Highland Way?
Midges can be an issue on the West Highland Way mainly in the summer months of June, July and August. Breezy days can often solve the issues as midgets do not like windy conditions. Similarly, they tend to not come out when humidity is below 60–75%. They are normally also worse near sun rise or sun set.
What is the prettiest part of West Highland Way?
Top 5 Highlights of the West Highland Way
- Conic Hill. Between Drymen and Balmaha lies Conic Hill.
- Falls of Falloch. When walking between Inverarnan and Tyndrum, a short detour will reward you with fabulous views of the Falls of Falloch.
- Buachaille Etive Mòr.
- The Devil’s Staircase.
- Glen Nevis.
Do I need walking poles for West Highland Way?
Walking poles are totally personal preference. However, if you are going to walk with them, make sure the West Highland Way is not your first time. If you discover in the first mile that you hate walking poles, you might be stuck for a further 95 miles with them.
What is the most beautiful part of the West Highland Way?
The best part is the north section after Bridge of Orchy to Fort William, especially Glencoe and Devils Staircase. To walk Bridge of Orchy to Fort William takes 16 – 21 hours depending on speed.
How many people finish the West Highland Way?
36,000
As of 2019 about 100,000 people walked part of the Way each year, with 36,000 completing the route.
| West Highland Way | |
|---|---|
| Length | 154 km (96 mi) |
| Location | Highlands of Scotland |
| Established | 1980 |
| Designation | Scotland’s Great Trails |
Is there cell service on the West Highland Way?
Comfortable walking boots are essential, as is a map of the West Highland Way and a whistle to alert others if you run into problems – there is no mobile phone signal for large stretches of the walk so don’t rely on your phone for route maps, info or keeping in touch.
Do you need cash on West Highland Way?
But, we would suggest you do carry some cash, enough to last a few days and pay for any incidentals for example snacks from shops, tips in bars, or packed lunches, which many B&Bs sell (these are not included in the Macs Adventure packages).
How far can the average person hike in a day?
How far can the average person hike in a day? Every hiker and trail is different, but on average, you can hike 8-15 miles a day [4]. Even the slowest hikers can cover a considerable distance if they have the time to spare. At a pace of 2 mph (slower than average), you can comfortably hike 10 miles in a day.
How many miles can j walk in a day?
Trained Walkers
That suggests that If a walker is well-trained and takes breaks, they can walk 20 miles in a day. If a walker doesn’t take breaks and is going fast, they may be able to cover 30 miles in a day.
Can you drink water on West Highland Way?
Raise a toast with the nation’s world-class tap water! “It’s really important for walkers to stay hydrated and the top up taps are a great addition to the Way, encouraging more people to use refillable water bottles.”
Is West Highland Way well signposted?
Is the West Highland Way well signposted? Yes. The West Highland Way follows a clear path and is well waymarked throughout.
Does eating Marmite stop midges?
Marmite – Love it or hate it, Marmite has also been known to deter midges. When you eat Marmite, its high content of yeast extract makes your blood less tasty. Chewing garlic also works similarly, but your walking companions may not enjoy it!
What are the worst months for midges in Scotland?
While biting midges are abroad in Scotland between May and September, with some outliers hitting the skies in April and October, July and August are generally considered to be the time when midges in Scotland are at their worst, in the average year.
How do I protect myself from Scottish midges?
The best way to avoid being bitten by midges is to cover up your bare skin at times when they are most likely to be around. If it’s a still, humid morning or evening, wear long-sleeved tops and trousers. A midge net made for your head can be a useful addition to your outdoors kit list.
Where can I sleep on the West Highland Way?
West Highland Way: Accommodation in Bunkhouses and Hostels
- Euro Hostel Glasgow. 318 Clyde Street, Glasgow, G1 4NR.
- Balmaha Bunkhouse. Balmaha, Loch Lomond, G63 0JQ.
- By the Way Hostel and Campsite.
- Kingshouse Bunkhouse.
- Heart of Glencoe Holidays.
- Fort William Backpackers.
- Smiddy Bunkhouse.
- Chase the Wild Goose Hostel.