Essential FAQs for Planning a Trek on the Great Glen Way

The Great Glen Way offers a stunning hiking experience through Scotland's picturesque Highlands, providing adventurers with a captivating journey that showcases the region's natural wonders and cultural richness. This long-distance trail takes you through a diverse landscape, featuring tranquil lochs, dense forests, and dramatic mountain vistas, all while presenting the unique charm of quaint Scottish towns and villages along the way. As you immerse yourself in this breathtaking environment, understanding the intricacies of the trail is essential for a successful and enjoyable hike.

This FAQ page serves as a resource for those considering a Great Glen Way trek, addressing common questions and concerns. From assessing the trail's difficulty levels to identifying key highlights and must-see spots, the information provided will help you begin planning your Scottish adventure.

Where is the Great Glen Way?

The Great Glen Way is located in the Highlands of Scotland and is one of Scotland's renowned trails. It offers a captivating blend of landscapes, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures. 

The trail is divided into sections, typically tackled over 5 to 7 days, and offers terrains from gentle canal towpaths to challenging forest routes. The trail is steeped in cultural richness with ancient castles, forts, and traditional Highland villages peppering the path.

How long is the Great Glen Way?

Spanning approximately 79 (127 km) miles from Fort William to Inverness, the Great Glen Way serves as an entryway to the Scottish Highlands. The route meanders through stunning natural scenery, including the legendary Loch Ness, famed globally for the Loch Ness Monster. Part of the route also follows the Caledonian Canal, an early 19th-century engineering marvel connecting the glistening lochs in the valley.

Where does the Great Glen Way start?

Fort William, located at the foot of Ben Nevis in the Scottish Highlands, serves as the starting point for the Great Glen Way. This picturesque town is known for its vibrant outdoor scene and acts as a magnet for adventure enthusiasts from around the globe.

Fort William is well-connected and accessible, making it a convenient and practical starting location for the trail. The town itself is steeped in history and culture, with notable attractions such as the West Highland Museum showcasing local history, and the nearby Glenfinnan Viaduct, famous for its appearance in the Harry Potter films.

Before embarking on the Great Glen Way, trekkers can explore Fort William's local amenities, which include a variety of shops, cafes, and accommodations catering to diverse preferences. The town's vibrant atmosphere and welcoming community provide a perfect prelude to the journey ahead. Fort William not only acts as a starting point but also as a memorable introduction to the Scottish Highlands' enchanting vistas and rich cultural heritage.

Where does the Great Glen Way end?

Inverness marks the end of the Great Glen Way. Known as the "Gateway to the Highlands," Inverness provides an ideal terminus for those completing the trail, offering a blend of modern conveniences and traditional highland charm.

Inverness is home to numerous historical attractions that tell the tales of the village’s storied past. Notable landmarks include Inverness Castle, which sits perched above the River Ness. The castle provides a striking silhouette against the skyline and offers panoramic views of the city from its vantage point. Nearby, the beautiful Inverness Cathedral, also known as St. Andrew's Cathedral, showcases impressive architecture and intricate stained glass windows.

As the endpoint of the Great Glen Way, Inverness provides numerous accommodations, from luxury hotels to cozy guesthouses. The city's transport links are excellent, with a railway station offering connections to major cities across Scotland.

Inverness is not only a fitting conclusion to the Great Glen Way, but also a thriving city that captures the essence of the Scottish Highlands and leaves a lasting impression on those who visit.

How hard is the Great Glen Way?

The Great Glen Way is considered moderately challenging, making it accessible to a wide range of hikers, including those who may be less experienced in long-distance hiking. Its terrain is relatively flat compared to more rugged Scottish trails, as it primarily follows canal paths, lochs, and forested areas. 

The trail stretches for about 79 miles (127 km) and is typically completed in 5-7 days, depending on the hiker's pace and planned itinerary. While the Great Glen Way does involve some uphill sections, they are generally gentle and manageable for most.The path is well-marked and maintained, further easing the journey. 

Overall, the Great Glen Way is suitable for trekkers seeking a scenic and less strenuous hiking experience, offering beautiful views without the demanding elevation changes found in some other Highland trails. As always, adequate preparation and fitness are recommended to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trek.

What is the difference between the Great Glen Way vs the West Highland Way?

The Great Glen Way and the West Highland Way are both celebrated long-distance trails in Scotland, offering distinct experiences for hikers. The Great Glen Way spans from Fort William to Inverness, following the Great Glen fault line over approximately 79 miles (127 km). In contrast, the West Highland Way begins in Milngavie, near Glasgow, and concludes in Fort William, covering about 96 miles (154 km). 

In terms of scenery, the Great Glen Way is characterized by canal paths, lochs, and forests, with picturesque views of Loch Ness. Meanwhile, the West Highland Way offers diverse landscapes, including moorlands, mountains, and valleys, with iconic sights such as Ben Nevis, Rannoch Moor, and Glencoe.

Regarding difficulty, the Great Glen Way is generally less challenging due to its relatively flat terrain, making it accessible to walkers of varying skill levels. Conversely, the West Highland Way presents more elevation changes and rugged paths, catering to those seeking a more demanding hike. Both trails typically require 5-7 days to complete, depending on the hiker's pace and itinerary choices. The West Highland Way's popularity draws thousands of walkers annually, whereas the Great Glen Way offers a more serene and less crowded experience. 

Highlights of the Great Glen Way include exploring the historic Caledonian Canal and the possibility of spotting the legendary Loch Ness Monster. The West Highland Way features landmarks like Conic Hill and the Devil's Staircase. Each trail possesses its unique charm, presenting remarkable opportunities to explore the beauty of the Scottish Highlands.

What airports should I fly in/out of for a Great Glen Way Trek? 

For your Great Glen Way trek, you have several airport options to choose from. These include Inverness Airport, Glasgow Airport, or Edinburgh Airport.

Inverness Airport (INV), located near the northern terminus of the trail, is the ideal choice for those flying out after the conclusion of their trek. The airport, situated about 8 miles (13 km) northeast of the city center, offers a range of domestic flights from major UK cities and some international connections, ensuring accessibility for travelers from both within the UK and abroad. Local buses, taxis, and rental cars provide convenient transportation to the city and surrounding areas.

Glasgow Airport (GLA) serves as a feasible option for those planning to explore more of Scotland, situated around 100 miles (160 km) from Fort William. As a major international gateway, it offers numerous flights from Europe, North America, and beyond. From Glasgow, travelers can embark on a scenic train journey via the West Highland Line or take a bus to Fort William, enjoying stunning views of the Scottish landscape en route. 

Similarly, Edinburgh Airport (EDI), located approximately 130 miles (210 km) from Fort William, provides extensive international and domestic flight options. Trains and buses from Edinburgh to Fort William further offer chances to appreciate Scotland's breathtaking scenery.

As you begin your  journey planning a trek across the Great Glen Way, we hope this FAQ page has offered you insights and guidance. This trail, weaving through the heart of Scotland's Highlands, not only showcases unparalleled natural beauty but also provides an opportunity to connect with the rich tapestry of Scottish culture and history. From navigating the serene lochs and absorbing the stunning vistas, to meeting fellow hikers and locals who share in their love for this iconic route, your adventure on the Great Glen Way promises to be nothing short of extraordinary. 

As always, we here at Pygmy Elephant are happy to answer any additional questions you may have about the Great Glen Way or any or our other treks. Feel free to contact us at [email protected] or click here to reach out to us about booking your Scottish adventure.