Frequently Asked Questions

Ceistean Cumanta

How long does it take to walk the route?

Most walkers take 5 or 6 days to walk the route, walking in stages of between 10 and 19 miles (16 – 30km) in length.

Can you camp along the route?

We practice a “leave no trace” policy when camping in the great glen. Commercial campsites are available throughout the Great Glen, as well as free camping pitches made available by British Waterways Scotland along the Caledonian Canal. (Contact British Waterways on 01463 725500 for details.)  Any other camping along the route should be undertaken well away from settlements, roads and possible ground water supplies.

Where is the mountain bike trail?

There is no individual mountain bike trail running the full length of the Great Glen. Since the passing of the Land Reform Act (2003) access rights for cycling and horse riding have been expanded, meaning that you are now able to cycle or ride on the entire length of the Great Glen Way. (See:www.outdooraccess-scotland.com)

How high is the route/what is the highest point?

The highest point on the route lies between Drumnadrochit and Abriachan where the path rises to just over 375 metres. The southern half of the route (Fort William to Fort Augustus) is level or gently rolling. North of Fort Augustus the route begins to climb and rises and falls between the different villages along Loch Ness. These sections include some long climbs, but are well worth it as they also have some of the best views on the route.

How bad are the midges?

Midges vary greatly with the time of year and the weather. Generally speaking they don’t like wind or sunshine – calm, cloudy and warm days tend to see the most midges. They are rarely about before May and usually die off with the first frosts at the end of September – beginning of October. July and August are often the worst months for midges.

A biting midge forecast for Scotland is now available online and also via text to mobile phones; see http://www.midgeforecast.co.uk for details

Can I walk with my dog?

Under the Scottish Outdoor Access Code dogs are welcome on all sections of The Great Glen Way as long as they are kept under close control at all times and kept on a lead in areas with sheep and lambs. The lambing season in this area is 1st April to 31st May. Relevant areas will normally have signs informing you of this. When making your travel arrangements make sure that dogs are allowed on public transport as not all providers allow dogs on their vehicles apart from guide dogs.

What is the Invergarry Link?

The link leaves and joins the GGW at Aberchalder swing bridge, and at the chalet park in South Laggan. It offers the choice between travelling on the south side of Loch Oich following a picturesque path along an old military road and disused railway, or using the north side of Loch Oich and taking in the village of Invergarry where you can find accommodation if you wish to break your walk here. The north side route is more strenuous thatn the south, but gives great views of Loch Oich, Glengarry, Ben Tee and the Loch Lochy Munros.

Look for the blue signs with maps to show how to follow the link.

Are there any shops available on the route?

Major supermarkets are available in Fort William and Inverness. Smaller shops are to be found throughout the Great Glen, as well as Post Offices and petrol stations.

If you have any other questions please contact the Great Glen Way Rangers.

Tel:  01320 366 633

or by E-mail: greatglenway@highland.gov.uk