Walking the Great Glen Way is a spectacular way to explore the Scottish Highlands, taking hikers through some of the most stunning scenery in Scotland. The trail is approximately 79 miles long and takes around 5-7 days to complete, depending on your pace and level of fitness.

The Great Glen Way starts at the town of Fort William at the southern end of the Great Glen, and follows the Caledonian Canal through the heart of the Highlands to the town of Inverness on the east coast. The trail passes through a variety of landscapes, including rugged mountains, tranquil lochs, and charming villages, and offers stunning views of Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest mountain.

The route takes hikers along the shores of Loch Lochy and Loch Oich, with opportunities to explore the beautiful forests of the Great Glen. The trail also passes through the picturesque village of Fort Augustus, which is home to a flight of locks on the Caledonian Canal, and the historic ruins of Urquhart Castle on the banks of Loch Ness.

One of the highlights of the Great Glen Way is the opportunity to walk along the banks of Loch Ness, with the chance to spot the elusive Loch Ness Monster. The trail also passes through several other small villages, providing opportunities for refreshments and rest.

Surfaces and variants. The Long Distance Walkers Association (LDWA) describes the route as using forestry tracks, the Caledonian Canal towpath and minor lanes and tracks, with very little use of the main A82. It lists two alternatives to the main route: the Invergarry Link along the western side of Loch Oich, and a higher-level High Route from Fort Augustus above Loch Ness. Both are more scenic but more demanding. The LDWA noted in August 2024 that the High Route between Fort Augustus and Invermoriston had reopened.

Where to stay. Accommodation options along the trail are plentiful, with a range of campsites, B&Bs, and hotels available in the nearby towns and villages. There are also plenty of pubs and cafes along the way, providing opportunities for refreshments and rest.

Overall, walking the Great Glen Way is a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Scottish Highlands. The LDWA grades the route as challenging, so allow for the distance and the forestry-track terrain.