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Routes » Long distance » West Highland Way

West Highland Way

Scottish Highlands, UK

TypeLong distance
GradeHike
Distance154 km
Typical days7
Ascent3500 m
High point550 m
Terraintrail, bog, rocky
Best seasonsspring, summer, autumn

Milngavie to Fort William past Loch Lomond, Rannoch Moor and Glen Coe.

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    What to pack for West Highland Way

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    Check the forecast and local advice; this list does not replace mountain skills or a safety assessment.

    KitPriorityTrip requirementSuitable shop option
    Backpackessential7 days carrying camp · 50L or moreHyperlite Southwest 55
    Boots / shoesessentialSupportive footwear for the terrainLa Sportiva Nepal Cube GTX
    Waterproof jacketessentialWeather can turn on any hillArc'teryx Beta AR
    Insulated jacketessentialWarm layer for breaksRab Neutrino Pro
    Navigation / commsessentialMap, compass or GPS for route findingSuunto MC-2 Compass
    First aid kitessentialBasic emergency careAdventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight .7
    Head torchessentialEarly starts and late finishesPetzl Actik Core
    Sun protectionrecommendedSun exposureJulbo Explorer 2.0 Cat 4
    Base layeressentialDry layer for multi-day comfortSmartwool Classic Thermal Merino Crew
    Tent / shelteressentialShelter for nights out · 3-seasonHilleberg Nammatj 2
    Sleeping bagessentialExpected night lows near 7°C · Rated to 7°C or colderWestern Mountaineering UltraLite
    Sleeping matessentialComfort and insulationTherm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT
    StoveessentialHot food on multi-day tripsJetboil MiniMo
    Water treatmentessentialSafe water from streamsSawyer Squeeze
    Trekking polesrecommendedLong days and big descentsBlack Diamond Distance Carbon Z
    GaitersrecommendedBog, snow or river crossingsOutdoor Research Crocodile Gaiters

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