45th Anniversary Stories

On 6 October 2025, the West Highland Way marked its 45th anniversary – and what a celebration it has been. Many fans of the Great Trail answered our call to share their memories, and the response has been truly inspiring. From first-time walkers to those who return year after year, we’ve received stories and photographs from every corner of the world.

Together, they reveal what makes the Way so special: friendships forged on the trail, family milestones marked with a walk, challenges faced and overcome, and countless moments when the scenery takes your breath away. Whether trekking the full 96 miles or enjoying a single day on the path, each story captures the heart of Scotland’s best-loved long-distance trail.

Here, you’ll find some of the highlights, featuring stories of determination, joy, humour, and connection, a flavour of your West Highland Way adventures.

Thank you to everyone who contributed. By sharing your experiences, you’ve helped us celebrate the trail’s history and strengthen the case for protecting its future.

12 months ago, I didn’t want to be here

From Leighton Collins, UK

Life once felt unbearably heavy, and I came close to giving up. One year on, I’ve taken on the 96-mile West Highland Way solo over five days, wild camping to raise awareness for mental health – and to give something back to a charity that’s helping save lives: Mind.

This journey has been deeply personal. I set out with zero training, not only to push myself, but in the hope that by sharing my experience honestly through blogging, I might help someone else feel less alone before it’s too late.

A 96-mile trek that truly changed all our lives.

From Charlie Duthie, Scotland

After 20 years in the music and radio industries, I decided with my family to step away from the hectic lifestyle and return to my old joinery tools. Before I could explore what that might mean, friends Ian and Dave invited me on my first West Highland Way. I instantly fell in love with the trail, and when we passed through Bridge of Orchy, I stumbled upon the old primary school, which had been closed since 2004 and was falling into ruin. I couldn’t stop thinking about what could be done with it.

In 2020, just after the lockdown, I received an email out of the blue: the school was going to be put up for public auction. I put in a bid and won. After a lengthy planning process, we opened the 60 Mile Inn in August 2025, offering luxury accommodation to hikers on the Way.

Dreaming of Scotland

From Raena Rowland, USA

I’d been dreaming of returning to Scotland since running the Loch Ness Marathon in 2019, with my heart set on the West Highland Way. We waited until our youngest was old enough at nine, and in May 2025, our family finally set out together. This journey was about soaking up the landscapes, but even more about bonding as a family.

We faced horrendous weather on a couple of days, when others skipped sections or turned back, but we pushed on. I’m so proud of my kids, aged 15, 13 and 9, for persevering and completing the trail. Nearly 100 miles on foot together – proof that as a family, you can accomplish anything. It’s a trip we’ll never forget.

Walking as a Celebration of Life

From Priscilla Gonzalez, USA

I walked the West Highland Way as a celebration of life. As a New York City Police Officer, I work in a specialist unit supporting colleagues with trauma and stress, while also tackling the stigma around asking for help. After the COVID-19 pandemic, I began exploring hiking more, discovering how healing nature can be.

In many ways, I walked for those we’ve lost to suicide, but also for myself. The WHW felt like a poetic setting to test grit and perseverance in a natural, humbling way. It became a milestone memory, a soulful journey filled with encounters with amazing people – and a reminder of how far I’ve come.

Lasting Memories of the West Highland Way

From Christian Sasse, Germany

I walked the West Highland Way in September 2024. On day two, I met an older Scotsman who immediately recognised me as a WHW hiker. We chatted for a while as he shared his favourite pubs along the trail. As we parted, he called after me that I was lucky with the weather – it would “only rain quite a bit” – and he was right.

What stayed with me most was how warmly people welcomed a stranger and offered support. Thanks for this experience – I’ll be back. Until then, I’ll carry the good memories with me… and a Scottish thistle on my skin!

Walking as a Celebration of Life

From Kathrine Parnell, USA

On the toughest stretch beside Loch Lomond, every stone beneath my feet felt unforgiving. I fell, slowed, and cried. Though I was hiking with my children, in that moment, I felt alone.

My husband had recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, and the thought struck me that one day I’ll face life’s hardest path without him. The weight of that truth was heavier than my pack. Yet the Way revealed something deeper: that beauty can be found even in struggle. I realised I am capable of enduring what lies ahead, carrying love, memory and resilience with me.

Second Time Success

From Anna Mayr, Austria

On a trip to Scotland, we set out from Tyndrum towards Bridge of Orchy in pouring rain. By the time we reached Auch, the downpour was so heavy we turned back – and yet it became one of the funniest, most memorable days we’d ever had, surrounded by stunning scenery. That was when the idea of walking the whole West Highland Way first took root.

A year later, in April 2025, we returned and completed the trail together. This time, the same stretch between Tyndrum and Bridge of Orchy was bathed in sunshine. Scotland holds a special place in our hearts, and walking the Way made us feel even more deeply connected to its land and beauty.

45th Anniversary Year Features