The routes Information - Great Glen Way

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The Great Glen Way is one of Scotland’s Great Trails.

This magnificent 75 mile/120 km waymarked route stretches from Fort William in the south west to Inverness in the north east. Starting (or ending) in Fort William in the shadow of Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis, the route follows the country’s greatest geological fault and follows sections of Thomas Telford’s historic Caledonian Canal before reaching Inverness, the capital of the Highlands.

The route can be walked in 4 – 7 days, staying overnight in the various communities in the Great Glen, and suits all levels of walker. For the most part the route is low-level and follows mainly canal towpaths, forest tracks and roads. There are some challenging sections though, and the more experienced walker may wish to tackle the Munros or Corbetts which lie within easy reach of the route.

Keep an eye out for osprey, golden eagle, red kite, pine marten and deer while enjoying the views available from this low-level yet challenging long distance route.

To help with planning your trip you can download our PDF of suggested route stages.

Leaflet map placholder

Route profile

Fort William to Gairlochy

The first section of the Great Glen Way starts in Fort William and passes through suburbs overshadowed by the great bulk of mighty Ben Nevis...

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Gairlochy to Laggan Locks

This section of the Way is 12 miles in length and is mainly on minor road or forest track. The way is almost identical to the Great Glen Cycle route...

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Laggan Locks to Fort Augustus

Be aware that there is also The Invergarry Link offers an alternative option. This Link may suit those who are stopping overnight in Invergarry...

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Fort Augustus to Invermoriston

This short stage of the Great Glen Way could be combined with the next leg to Drumnadrochit. The walking mostly follows forest tracks above Loch Ness with some good views over the loch...

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Invermoriston to Drumnadrochit

The Great Glen Way low level option from Invemoriston keeps through the forestry north of Loch Ness, with good views at times across the water to the hills on the south side of the Loch...

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Drumnadrochit to Inverness

The final section of the Great Glen Way is generally easy walking through farmland and forestry which some good views for short sections over Loch Ness and the mountains to the north...

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