by dmirzai » Mon May 31, 2021 1:57 pm
Date walked: 07/05/2021
Time taken: 6 days
Distance: 152 km
Ascent: 3700m
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For me, this was part of a 3 week trek to JOG, so I was carrying a heavier pack than most though I am fairly used to it. Top tip is to bring a water filter rather than a bladder and save yourself the extra weight.
While the walk may look pretty straight-forward and the path is mostly excellent, be prepared for a bit of a slog 3 miles either side of Inversnaid (the northern half of Loch Lomond).
The ascent up and over the glen an hour after Kingshouse is pretty challenging compared to the rest of the route; set yourself a steady pace and you'll be up in about 40 minutes.
Coming from the South, the descent into Kinlochleven is very steep and will definitely hurt at the end of the day!
I walked just after lockdown ended so there were a few issues surrounding hotels/facilities being open, but the route was still well serviced by local shops and amenities.
A few questions on here regarding wild camping - there are some great spots ahead of Conic Hill just past the livestock gate and before the climb proper that are located just off the path.
Highlights: my favourite section was ridge walking on day 5 between Inveroran and Kingshouse; and the food at the pub in Inveroran was very good and reasonably priced.
Itinerary
Milngavie to Conic Hill - 24km length / 6.5hrs time taken / 390m ascent
Conic Hill to Inversnaid - 29km/8.5hrs/910m
Inversnaid to Tyndrum - 30km/9.5hrs/800m
Tyndrum to Inveroran - 15km/5hrs/300m
Inveroran to Kinlocheven - 30km/6hrs/650m
Kinlocheven to Fort William - 25km/6.5hrs/650m
If ever in doubt, just remind yourself that little old ladies do this walk, pace yourself and you'll be fine.
