The West Highland Way - Stage Five (Kinlochleven to Fort William)

(S) Leave Kinlochleven heading North-North-Est on B863 then West along the main B863 road (Lochaber Rd) across the bridge over Allt Coire na Bà and bending left through the trees until you reach the trail off to the right (West-North-West) (opposite some football pitches).

(1) The path goes behind some newly-built cottages to cross Allt Coire an Eich and continue slowly upwards. The climb becomes steeper through the woods, having to zig-zag to reach Màm Mòr y Màm Beag. There are some great views looking down to Loch Leven. We're on the Old Military Road, following Allt Nathrach up into the hills to reach a sheepfold just past the col leading into the next valley at Tigh-na-sleubhaich.

(2) The trail continues West down the valley, following Allt na Lairige Moire, passing the ruins of Lairigmor and bending to the right along the flanks of Mullach nan Coirean at 939m above sea level. At another sheepfold, the path enters a walled wood, leaving the Old Military Road to go past the ruins of Blàr a' Chaorainn and exit above the River Kiachnish.

(3) The path continues to bend to the right and enters another wooded area, crossing over Allt Coire a' Mhuilinn and staying close to the crags until it reaches An Dùn and the old fort of Dùn Deardail.

(4) The trail doubles back into the Nevis Forest, with the giant Ben Nevis directly in front, at 1,345m above sea level, making it the highest mountain in UK. The path then swings North-West to pass Glen Nevis House and YHA Glen Nevis.

(5) At a junction, bear right (East) out of the woods to cross Allt an Luid Dhuibh and reach the road close to the River Nevis.

(6) Follow the road North past a cemetery on the left aand Achintee House on the right. The road hugs the river, bending left to reach the main A82 at Nevis Bridge. Make your way into the town of Fort William to reach the end of the trail and to catch a train back to Glasgow. (E)

This is a simple route, with some climbing but mostly sticking to streams and rivers to walk through the valleys whilst appreciating the high mountains from below.

Facilities : Food and drink should be taken with you as there are no shops or pubs until you reach Glen Nevis and Fort William.

You should be able to reach your destination in good time but check the light hours if doing this route in the winter months. If the weather is wet and cold, make sure you have the right gear. It's a good idea to sort out your accommodation and book well in advance.

The West Highland Way is the most established of Scotland’s long distance walking routes. Officially opened on 6th October 1980, it celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2020. The WHW stretches 96 miles (154 Km) from Milngavie to Fort William, taking in a huge variety of scenery along the way, from countryside parks to loch-shores and open moorlands to steep mountains.

There's plenty to see along the way. Keep a steady pace but stop occasionally to enjoy the scenery. Enjoy the route and look out for wildlife along the way. Don't rush, just enjoy the journey and make the most of the moment.