Planning your West Highland Way trip for 2025
You’ll find lots of advice at the At the West highland Way website from working out your itinerary to essential advice and information on what to take with you.
A few other tips:
- If you have some flexibility with your dates, it may help with your accommodation options to start mid-week or even consider going north to south. May is usually the busiest month so accommodation gets booked up well in advance.
- The accommodation and services section on our website lists businesses which offer places to stay, baggage transfer, booking services, guided walks, food & drink, shops & provisions etc. This list is not exhaustive, but all the businesses listed here are proud supporters of the WHW.
- The section of the WHW north of Inversnaid is considered by many to be the most challenging terrain of the entire route where it winds along the side of Loch Lomond between trees and crags. Please allow additional time for this section and take extra care, particularly in or after wet weather.
- Take a head torch with you, particularly out of the summer season, in case you take longer than expected to complete a section.
- Be a cool camper – if you are planning to wild camp, please do so responsibly and follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. Camping byelaws are in place in the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park (including some stretches of the WHW between Drymen and Tyndrum) between March to September.
- If you are planning to take a dog, ensure you keep it under proper control particularly around livestock.
- Any updates about the route, including diversions and events we are aware of, are posted on their Notices page.
- A map of the WHW is a must, either a separate one or part of the many excellent guide books available. Whilst there are also many good apps available, beware of relying solely on your phone in case the battery runs out.
- Decide well in advance on the footwear that (boots or trail shoes) and make sure they are properly worn in before you start – plus don’t forget that your choice of socks can make a big difference to your comfort. It’s also worth having spare socks in your daypack in case they get wet.
- Bring a refillable water bottle so that you can use top up taps en route and cut down on plastic waste. A selection of water bottles plus T-shirts, hoodies, hats, mugs, finisher medals and souvenirs are available from our online shop.
- Don’t forget to buy an official West Highland Way passport before you set off so that you can collect stamps as you go – it’s a great souvenir and also helps to support the trail.
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