The West Highland Way is a challenging walking route which in places crosses wild expanses of remote country where the going can be strenuous. It extends for some 92 miles from Milngavie, near Glasgow to Fort William and offers about a week's walking according to age and experience.

Following the shores of Loch Lomond, Scotland's largest freshwater loch, along the foot of Ben Lomond, it passes from the lowlands across the Highland Boundary Fault and into the Scottish Highlands.

West Highland Way footpath

Six miles into the walk are the Campsie Fells, Dumgoyach Farm, and Conic Hill. Balmaha is a further 10 miles on. Cailness Wood, Loch Lomond at 32 miles is followed by Loch Tulla at the forest lodge. At 47 miles is Buachaille Etive Mors whilst after the Ben Nevis Forest there are only 4 miles left to Fort William.

The weather in the Scottish mountains can change rapidly at any time of the year - whilst conditions in the winter months can be arctic. Walkers should not attempt the route unless they have the fitness, experience and equipment necessary for walking in all weathers.

When you go:

• Take windproof and woollens 
• Take a compass and know how to use it. 
• Carry spare food and a torch
• Know the weather signs and local forecast 
• Plan within your abilities 
• Know simple first aid and the symptoms of exposure 
• Wear climbing boots or stout walking boots