Every hiker experiences a trail differently. Some people dread steep climbs, others struggle more on descents – everyone has their strengths and limits. Unfortunately, it’s hard to predict which parts of the West Highland Way will challenge you the most until you’re actually on the path.

Hopefully, this breakdown helps you plan your walk so you can enjoy the journey as much as possible. These impressions are based on my own experience, common opinions from other walkers, and “notorious” sections that are often mentioned online.

🟢 Easier Sections:

Milngavie → Drymen:
A straightforward introduction to the trail. You’ll encounter a few short stretches of road walking, but no major climbs or descents — a great warm-up stage.

Inverarnan → Tyndrum: 
Generally flat and forgiving, with a well-maintained path throughout. Ideal for stretching your legs after the more rugged sections around Loch Lomond

Tyndrum → Inveroran
A steady, gradual incline to Bridge of Orchy, followed by a short climb up to Inveroran. Nothing too taxing, and the scenery keeps getting better.

🟡 Moderate Sections:

Drymen → Rowardennan:
The trail stays gentle until Conic Hill. The climb up isn’t bad, but the descent can be tough on tired knees — it’s basically a long flight of stone steps. After Balmaha, the forest trail undulates pleasantly but can sap your energy with all the little ups and downs.

Inveroran → Kingshouse:
I personally did not find this section too challenging and many people incorporate it as part of a longer day. That being said, I am including it here for two reasons:

• This part of the trail is very remote, and poor weather can be really rough here.
• The trail follows an old military road, which is  is cobbled and can really start to hurt your feet after a while.

Kingshouse – Kinlochleven:
This stretch includes the famous Devil’s Staircase – a long but manageable climb that’s not as menacing as it sounds. The real challenge is the descent into Kinlochleven: it’s long, repetitive, and you can see the town for miles before you finally reach it!

🔴 Challenging Sections:

Rowardennan → Inverarnan:
Arguably the toughest section of the West Highland Way. The rugged (think roots and rocks), path snakes up and down along Loch Lomond, slowing your pace and demanding constant attention. It’s scenic but physically draining. It’s a notorious section and for good reason!

Kinlochleven – Fort William:
The final leg is long and tough to split unless you’re wild camping. The climb out of Kinlochleven is steep and often cited as the hardest ascent on the trail – thankfully its short. From there, the rolling terrain offers some beautiful views, but the walk for miles through the busy town at the end is rough. 

💡 Quick Tips

• Plan your days around your strengths – don’t assume the “easy” stages will feel easy for you.

• Build in shorter days after challenging sections if possible.

• Keep in mind that weather can dramatically change how difficult each stretch feels.