The Best Time to Walk the West Highland Way

If you’re dreaming of Scotland’s most iconic long-distance trail, one of the first questions you’ll ask is: When’s the best time to walk the West Highland Way?

Stretching 154km from Milngavie (just outside Glasgow) to Fort William at the foot of Ben Nevis, this legendary route winds through lochs, moors, glens and mountains. It’s one of the most rewarding ways to experience the beauty and culture of the Scottish Highlands – but timing is everything. The West Highland Way weather changes dramatically with the seasons, affecting your comfort, safety and overall experience.

Whether you’re looking for long daylight hours, fewer crowds, autumn colours or the stillness of winter, this guide will help you choose the best time to hike the West Highland Way. You’ll also find some handy tips for preparation, including planning your route, a West Highland Way packing list and some FAQ’s on the difficulty of the trail.

Table of Contents:

1. What is the Best Time to Walk the West Highland Way?
– Seasonal Breakdown

2. Things to Consider Before Walking the West Highland Way
– Weather
– Crowds
– Wildlife  
– Daylight Hours

3. Walking the West Highland Way by Season
– Spring
– Summer
– Autumn
– Winter

4. Tips for Walking the West Highland Way
– Plan Your Route
– Get the Right Gear
– Think About Fitness
– Book Ahead (in Peak Season)

5. Are You Ready for a West Highland Way Adventure?

6. FAQs

What is the Best Time to Walk the West Highland Way?

Looking for a quick answer? Most people say the best time to do the West Highland Way is between May and September. That’s when you’ll find milder weather, long days, and open facilities. But every season offers something unique and stretching the season even a little with an April or October departure can help to avoid the busiest times on the trail.

Here’s a simple breakdown to help you decide:

Season	Months	Average Temperature	Conditions	Best For
Spring	March – May	6–15°C	Fresh greenery, wildflowers, changeable weather	Quieter trails, fewer midges
Summer	June – August	10–18°C	Long days, warmest weather, occasional rain	First-timers, social atmosphere
Autumn	Sept – Oct	7–14°C	Crisp air, autumn colours, fewer midges	Photographers, cooler hikes
Winter	Nov – Feb	0–6°C	Snow, ice, very short days	Experienced hikers, solitude

Things to Consider Before Walking the West Highland Way

Walking the West Highland Way isn’t just about the trail itself, it’s about the conditions, atmosphere and experiences along the way. Here are a few key things to think about before you embark on the adventure.

Weather

The West Highland Way weather forecast can change quickly. Expect everything from sunshine to heavy rain, sometimes on the same day! In summer, it’s mild but can be wet; in winter, it can be bitterly cold with snow and ice. Remember to pack for all conditions, regardless of the time of year you visit.

Crowds

The busiest months are June, July and August, when the trail is at its most social but also its most crowded. If you want a quieter experience, spring and autumn are great alternatives to explore the West Highland Way. With our self-guided UK tours, you can set the pace and decide what kind of hiking experience you want to have.

Wildlife

Each season brings its own highlights: spring is great for spotting nesting birds and wildflowers; summer brings plenty of deer and colourful butterflies; autumn often sees rutting stags; and whilst there are fewer sunlight hours during the winter, wildlife may be easier to spot due to less foliage.

Daylight Hours

Scotland’s latitude means big seasonal differences in daylight. In midsummer, you’ll have up to 17 hours of light, which is ideal for long days of walking. In winter, however, you’ll have as few as 6 hours, which makes planning essential.

Walking the West Highland Way in Spring

Spring (March to May) is one of the most rewarding times to walk the West Highland Way. The Scottish Highlands awaken after winter with fresh greenery, rushing rivers and blooming wildflowers. Temperatures gradually climb from chilly March mornings to pleasantly mild May afternoons.

You’ll also notice fewer people on the trail, especially in March and April. Accommodation is easier to book, and you’ll likely enjoy stretches of the path in solitude. Midges (the notorious Highland insects) are minimal in early spring, making this a great time for a more peaceful experience.

Pros:

• Fewer crowds, especially in March and April
• Blooming wildflowers and vibrant scenery
• Little to no midge activity early in the season

Cons:

• Chilly temperatures, especially in March and at higher elevations
• Unpredictable weather with the risk of heavy rain or lingering snow

Walking the West Highland Way in Summer

Summer (June to August) is the most popular time for the West Highland Way walk. Days are long, with up to 17 hours of daylight in June, giving you plenty of time to cover each stage at your own pace. Temperatures are at their warmest, usually ranging between 12–18°C, though rain is still common.

Scenery is at its peak during the summer, with lush greenery, wildflowers and sparkling lochs setting the scene. Villages and accommodation along the route are fully open and the trail is buzzing with fellow walkers from around the world. This makes summer a very social time to hike, perfect if you enjoy meeting others along the way!

The downsides to summer hiking? You’ll face the largest crowds and the highest demand for accommodation, so booking around 1 year in advance is a must. Midges are also at their worst during the summer months, particularly around Loch Lomond.

Pros:

• Warmest weather and longest daylight hours
• Stunning scenery at its peak
• Fully open facilities and a social atmosphere

Cons:

• Busiest time on the trail – book early to secure spots
• Midges can be relentless
• Still a chance of heavy rain

Walking the West Highland Way in Autumn

Autumn (September to October) offers a beautiful alternative to the busier summer months. The Highlands hiking trails begin to glow with rich autumn colours, from fiery orange woodlands to golden moorland. The West Highland Way weather is cooler and crisper, usually between 7–14°C, making it especially pleasant for walking.

Crowds thin out after August, meaning the trail feels quieter but not deserted, and midges fade by mid-September. For photographers and nature lovers, autumn is arguably the most atmospheric time to hike.

The challenges of walking the West Highland Way during autumn? Days get shorter – especially in October – so you’ll need to plan stages carefully. The west Highland weather in autumn is also unpredictable, with more rain and stronger winds rolling in as winter approaches. Another thing to consider is that some smaller accommodations may close toward the end of October.

Pros:

• Stunning autumn colours and dramatic landscapes
• Fewer crowds and fewer midges
• Comfortable walking temperatures

Cons:

• Shorter daylight hours
• Increasingly wet and windy weather
• Some accommodations may close late in the season

Walking the West Highland Way in Winter

A West Highland Way winter (November to February) transforms the trail into a wild, quiet and often challenging landscape. Snow on the peaks, frozen lochs and misty glens create a stark beauty you won’t find at any other time of year.

But make no mistake – the West Highland Way in winter is only for experienced hikers. The weather can be extreme, with snow, ice and high winds. Temperatures often hover around freezing and daylight is limited to as little as 6 hours. Also, many accommodations close for the season, meaning logistics require serious planning.

Still, if you’re well-prepared and confident in winter conditions, this season offers unmatched solitude and a real sense of adventure. No midges, no crowds, just you and the wilderness.

Pros:

Incredible solitude and dramatic winter landscapes
No midges
A unique and raw experience

Cons:

• Extreme weather: snow, ice, storms
• Very short daylight hours
• Limited accommodation and services

Tips for Walking the West Highland Way

No matter when you go, preparation is key to a safe and enjoyable journey – from having the right gear for the season, to planning your route carefully, to knowing what to expect from the ever-changing West Highland weather. Here are 5 of our top tips for successfully and safely walking the West Highland Way.

1. Plan Your Route

The first thing to do is decide how many days you want to walk. Most people complete a West Highland Way tour in 6–8 days, but it can be done faster or slower depending on your pace, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend soaking up the scenery.

Some walkers prefer shorter daily distances with plenty of time to pause at lochsides or explore villages along the way, while others enjoy covering more ground each day for the challenge.

At Adventure Tours UK, we recommend a West Highland Way itinerary that completes the trail over 8 days of hiking – this is plenty for most people, averaging around 20km per day. We can build in rest days for those that would like a little break mid-trail, for example spending 2 nights in Tyndrum provides an opportunity to rest weary legs at the half way point and makes a great place from where you can enjoy a day trip to Oban. Or you could add days to the start or end of your West Highland Way hiking adventure to explore more of Scotland while you’re here. Our tailor-made tours can include accommodation, luggage transfers and add-ons to ensure your journey feels like the right balance of adventure and enjoyment.

2. Get the Right Gear

Having the right hiking gear makes all the difference. If you’re looking for a full West Highland Way packing list, look no further. Here are all the essentials you’ll need for a safe and successful experience:

• Waterproof jacket and trousers
• Comfortable, broken-in walking boots
• Layered, wicking clothing for changeable weather
• Hat, gloves and warm layers (even in summer)
• Backpack with rain cover
• Map, compass or GPS device
• Reusable water bottle
• Insect repellent (for summer months)
• Snacks and high-energy foods
• Portable powerpack
• Walking poles (optional)

3. Think About Fitness

One question that arises frequently is ‘How difficult is the West Highland Way?’ The route is generally considered a moderate, long-distance walk, suitable for most people with a reasonable level of fitness. The route is well waymarked and doesn’t involve technical climbing, but you’ll cover 154 km (96 miles) of varied terrain – from gentle lochside paths to rocky ascents like Conic Hill and the Devil’s Staircase.

The main challenge comes from the cumulative effort of walking day after day, often in changeable West Highland weather. Training for multi-day hikes with regular long walks on uneven ground, ideally carrying a pack, will make a big difference.

With preparation, the West Highland Way is achievable and rewarding for first-time long-distance walkers as well as seasoned hikers.

4. Book Ahead (in Peak Season)

In summer, accommodation along the West Highland Way fills up quickly along the length of the route. Booking early is the best way to secure your preferred stops and make sure your West Highland Way itinerary runs smoothly without the stress of searching for last-minute options. We recommend booking 9-12 months in advance for summer dates.

If you’d rather not worry about logistics, booking a self-guided West Highland Way tour with Adventure Tours UK means all of your accommodation and planning is taken care of, while still giving you the freedom to walk at your own pace and enjoy the adventure on your terms.

Are You Ready for a West Highland Way Adventure?

Ultimately, the best time to walk the West Highland Way depends on your preferences – whether you value long days, solitude, scenery, or the challenge of winter.

If you’re looking for the sweet spot, most walkers find May, June and September offer the best balance of good weather, long daylight hours, and manageable crowds. For quieter trails, April and October are excellent choices, while July and August are ideal if warmer weather and a lively atmosphere matter most. Winter, meanwhile, is only for seasoned adventurers seeking solitude in dramatic conditions.

At Adventure Tours UK, we specialise in creating unforgettable West Highland Way tours, whether that’s a self-guided itinerary or a tailor-made adventure built around you. Explore our other self-guided walking tours, including Scotland’s Great Glen Way and Offa’s Dyke Path in Wales.

Ready to start planning? Get in touch today and let’s design your perfect West Highland Way experience.

FAQs

How difficult is the West Highland Way?

The trail is considered moderate, with a mix of easy paths and more challenging rocky sections. Good fitness and preparation will make the journey enjoyable.

Where does the West Highland Way start and finish?

It begins in Milngavie, just outside Glasgow, and ends in Fort William at the foot of Ben Nevis.

What is the best time to do the West Highland Way?

Most walkers choose May, June or September for a balance of good weather, long days and manageable crowds.

Is the West Highland Way nice in the winter?

It can be beautiful but will be challenging. Snow, ice and short daylight hours make it suitable only for experienced hikers with winter gear.

How long is the West Highland Way walk?

The route is 154 km (96 miles) long. If you’re wondering ‘how long does the West Highland Way take?’, most walkers complete it in 6–8 days, but you can tailor your route to suit your desired timing.