The West Highland Way is a dream hike for adventure lovers, stretching over 96 miles of Scotland’s most stunning landscapes. From the banks of Loch Lomond to the rugged beauty of the Highlands and the shadow of Ben Nevis, this trail is an unforgettable experience. But a big question remains for anyone planning this epic trek: 

How many days do you need to hike the West Highland Way? 

The answer? It depends! Whether you're a seasoned hiker looking for a challenge, or someone who wants to soak up every moment at their own pace, there's an itinerary for you. Below, we’ll discuss the factors to consider, typical hiking durations, and itinerary suggestions to help you plan your ideal walk. 

Factors That Influence Your Hiking Duration 

Before we break down the different routes, make sure to consider the following factors: 

1. Your Fitness Level 

Are you accustomed to hiking long distances for several consecutive days? If the thought of a 20-mile trek in a day feels daunting, you'll want to spread out the route over more days to give your body time to recover. 

2. Hiking Experience 

If you’re a first-time long-distance hiker, you’ll benefit from an itinerary with shorter daily distances to build your confidence and enjoy the trail without stress. 

Alternatively, you can try a less challenging route, such as the Great Glen Way first, to ease you in. 

3. Desired Pacing 

Do you want a more challenging adventure or a slow, immersive experience? Some prefer to tackle the trail in just six days, while others opt for ten or more to take in the scenery at their own pace. 

4. Exploring Off the Trail 

If you’d love to detour for whisky tastings, visit a castle, or climb Ben Lomond or Ben Nevis, our adventure experts can build your trip with extra rest days throughout your hike. 

5. Season & Weather 

Scotland’s weather can dramatically impact your hike. Rain or wind might lead to slower walking speeds, so shorter distances per day are often more manageable during wetter months. 

Now that you've reflected on these factors, let's explore the most popular options for tackling the West Highland Way. 

Typical Hiking Durations for the West Highland Way 

Whether you're aiming to complete the trail in record time or savor every moment, we’ve got you covered. Here are a few itineraries to consider: 

6 Days (5 hiking days) | For Experienced & Ambitious Hikers 

• Best for: Fit hikers seeking a challenging, fast-paced adventure. 
• Daily average: 16 miles (9-10 hours of walking daily). 
• Details: This is the shortest itinerary possible and demands a high level of fitness. Expect to walk long distances day after day, with little downtime. 
• Learn more here: West Highland Way 6-day itinerary. 

7 Days (6 hiking days) | A Moderate, Yet Challenging Pace 

• Best for: Hikers who want to push themselves without feeling too rushed. 
• Daily average: 13.5 miles. 
• Details: You’ll balance moderate distances with the chance to enjoy some of the scenery and communities along the way. Conquering sections like the "Devil’s Staircase" will still test your endurance. 
• Learn more here: West Highland Way 7-day itinerary. 

8 Days (7 hiking days) | The "Classic" Experience 

• Best for: Regular hikers who want a comfortable pace with time to explore. 
• Daily average: 12 miles. 
• Details: Offering a nice balance between challenging hikes and rest. You’ll tackle highlights like Loch Lomond, Rannoch Moor, and the finishing line in Fort William. 
• Learn more here: West Highland Way 8-day itinerary. 

9 Days (8 hiking days) | The "Popular" Experience 

• Best for: Hikers who want to enjoy every moment without rushing. 
• Daily average: 10.5 miles. 
• Details: This is one of the most popular itineraries which lets you savor the beauty around you, stop for café breaks, and enjoy lunches with scenic views. 
• Learn more here: West Highland Way 9-day itinerary. 

10 Days (The Ideal Next Step Up) 

• Best for: First-time hikers and those who prefer slow travel. 
• Daily average: 9.5 miles. 
• Details: Shorter walking days leave plenty of time to explore nearby attractions and relax each evening while still covering the entire route. 
• Learn more here: West Highland Way 10-day itinerary. 

11 Days (The Best Itinerary to Start With) 

• Best for: Hikers wanting to truly immerse themselves in the adventure. 
• Daily average: 8-9 miles. 
• Details: This calm and steady pace is ideal for those who want more free time to experience the local culture and sites alongside hiking. 
• Learn more here: West Highland Way 11-day itinerary. 

Sectional Trips 

Short on time? Explore just a section of the West Highland Way: 

• West Highland Way North | Moderate | 6 days: Covers the latter half, from Tyndrum to Fort William. 

Learn more here: West Highland Way Northern Section. 

• West Highland Way South | Moderate | 4 days: Start with the southern portion, from Milngavie to Rowardennan. 

Learn more here: West Highland Way Southern Section. 

• West Highland Way Highlights | Moderate | 7 days: Experience 66 miles of the route's best sections. 

Learn more here: West Highland Way Highlights. 

• Best of the West Highland Way | Easy to Moderate | 7 days: Focuses on only the most spectacular parts of the trail and includes a Glengoyne Distillery group tour and tasting. 

Learn more here: Best of the West Highland Way. 

Preparing for Your West Highland Way Adventure 

No matter the itinerary, preparation is key to an enjoyable hike. Here’s how to get started: 

Training Tips 

• Build stamina by hiking regularly with a backpack. 
• Incorporate hill hiking to mimic Scotland’s rugged terrain. 
• Gradually increase your distance to reflect daily trail mileage. 

Essential Gear 

• Comfortable, waterproof hiking boots. 
• Layers suitable for Scotland’s famously unpredictable weather. 
• A daypack for water, snacks, dry socks and a rain jacket. 

 
Check out our full West Highland Way packing guide 

Check out our helpful guides for more details: 

• When's the best time to hike the West Highland Way 
• Guide to hiking the West Highland Way 
• West Highland Way top tips 
• West Highland Way FAQs 

Why Choose Macs Adventure 

• Luggage transfers (hike bag-free!). 
• Detailed route guides and the Macs Adventure app for stress-free navigation. 
• Hand-picked accommodations that reflect authentic local charm while supporting small businesses. 
• 24/7 support for peace of mind. 
• Confidence knowing your trip supports sustainability and local communities. 

Discover the full benefits of self-guided hiking with us. 

Your Highland Hiking Journey Awaits 

The West Highland Way is more than just a trail - it’s an opportunity to push your boundaries, immerse yourself in the majesty of nature, and create memories that’ll last forever. Whether you’re setting out for six days or 11, there’s no wrong way to experience this iconic hike. 

Ready to start your next adventure? Book your self-guided West Highland Way experience with Macs Adventure today.