Drymen to Balmaha on Foot: The West Highland Way's Second Stage

The best route follows the official West Highland Way path, beginning in Drymen village on Main Street and heading north through the Conic Hill nature reserve before descending to Balmaha on Loch Lomond's eastern shore.

From Drymen, walkers follow well-marked trails through leafy sections of Mugdock Country Park and open farmland near Gartness. The path steadily climbs towards Conic Hill, which reaches 361 meters (1,184 feet) high. The ascent includes some steep stretches, but the effort is rewarded with wide views over Loch Lomond and the surrounding hills of the Trossachs National Park. After the summit, the trail descends along grassy slopes to Balmaha, a village with facilities such as the Balmaha Visitor Centre on Shore Road, cafes like The Oak Tree Inn, and places to stay.

West Highland Way markers clearly indicate the route, which features uneven and rocky ground near the hilltop. Sturdy hiking boots and trekking poles can improve comfort and safety. This official path covers about 12 miles and is the preferred and safest choice for most walkers.

This stage is rated moderate in difficulty due to the steady climb up Conic Hill and some uneven terrain, but it is suitable for most walkers with reasonable fitness levels.

The early part of the walk from Drymen follows gentle farmland routes near Gartness and forest tracks through Mugdock Country Park. The main challenge comes with the ascent of Conic Hill, which involves steep gradients and rocky patches. The summit features extensive views but requires caution when the weather is wet or windy. The path down to Balmaha is less steep but includes grassy and occasionally muddy sections.

Walkers should be prepared for changing weather and bring appropriate gear. Allowing 5 to 7 hours to complete this section gives time for rest stops and photographs. Those less experienced or with limited fitness may find the hill climb demanding but manageable with regular pauses.

Highlights include the panoramic views from Conic Hill, the eastern shore of Loch Lomond, and Balmaha village with its historic buildings and visitor facilities.

Conic Hill provides broad views across Loch Lomond, Scotland's largest freshwater loch, and the surrounding Trossachs hills. On clear days, walkers can see Ben Lomond, a Munro standing at 974 meters (3,196 feet).

Balmaha, situated on the loch's eastern shore, serves as a base for boat tours and further walking routes. The village features a historic church, the Balmaha Heritage Centre on Main Street, and several pubs and cafes where walkers can pause. The Loch Lomond Shores visitor centre, about 6 miles south in Balloch, is reachable by a short bus or taxi ride.

Along the way, the route passes through mixed woodlands in Mugdock Country Park and open farmland near Gartness, where red squirrels and various birds can often be spotted.

Preparation involves wearing sturdy hiking boots, packing waterproof clothing, bringing enough water and snacks, and checking weather forecasts before setting off.

Scottish weather can be unpredictable, so waterproof jackets and layering are essential. The trail includes exposed parts, especially on Conic Hill, where wind and rain can intensify. Trekking poles are helpful on the ascent and descent to reduce strain and improve balance.

Walkers should carry at least 1.5 litres of water, as reliable sources along the trail are scarce. Snacks or a packed lunch help maintain energy during the 5 to 7-hour walk. Mobile phone reception is generally good but may drop out near the hilltop.

Starting early in the day allows completion in daylight and time for breaks. Informing someone of your planned route and expected arrival time adds a safety layer.

Drymen is reachable by bus from Glasgow and Stirling, while Balmaha has limited public transport but connections by bus and boat to nearby towns.

Drymen lies about 20 miles northwest of Glasgow and 12 miles southwest of Stirling. Bus services X8 and 59 link Drymen to Glasgow city centre (George Square) and Stirling, with journeys taking 45 minutes to an hour. Car drivers can park near the village centre on Main Street or at the Drymen Community Centre car park.

Public transport options in Balmaha are more restricted. The 500 bus runs between Balloch and Balmaha roughly every 90 minutes on weekdays. Balloch railway station connects to Glasgow and other destinations by train and bus. Balmaha also serves as a ferry point for boat trips on Loch Lomond, including routes to Inveruglas and Luss.

Walkers finishing in Balmaha should arrange transport in advance, especially outside peak season, to avoid long waits. Local taxis are available but may require booking.

Balmaha features various accommodation options including guesthouses, bed and breakfasts, and small hotels suitable for overnight stays.

Popular places include the Oak Tree Inn on Shore Road, featuring rooms and a traditional Scottish pub setting, and the Lodge on Loch Lomond, a larger hotel with riverside views and dining. Prices generally range from GBP 60 to GBP 120 per night depending on season and room type.

Booking ahead is recommended during the busy months of May to September, as Balmaha is a frequent stop on the West Highland Way. Nearby campsites such as the Balmaha Campsite, managed by Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority, offer pitches costing about GBP 10 to GBP 15 per person per night.

The village also has several cafes and small shops on Main Street for supplies, making it convenient for walkers to rest and prepare for the next stage.

Locals recommend starting early to avoid afternoon crowds on Conic Hill, carrying cash for small village shops, and taking time to rest at viewpoints.

This stage attracts many walkers, especially on summer weekends. Beginning early helps avoid congestion on narrow paths and ensures quieter sections of the route. Weekday walks tend to be less busy.

While most cafes and shops accept cards, smaller places in Balmaha sometimes prefer cash, so carrying some GBP is wise. Water refill points are scarce, so bringing a reusable bottle is practical.

Stopping at the summit of Conic Hill or near the loch shore allows time to rest and photograph the surroundings. Wildlife is more often seen during quieter periods, rewarding patient walkers. Those wanting to extend their trip can continue north on the West Highland Way or take boat trips on Loch Lomond from Balmaha.

Facilities on this section are limited, so planning ahead is important. Drymen village has public toilets at the Drymen Community Centre on Main Street, small shops such as the Drymen Post Office & Convenience Store, and cafes like the Buchanan Arms Hotel where walkers can purchase supplies before setting out. There are no public restrooms or shops on the trail between Drymen and Balmaha.

Balmaha features public toilets near the village centre on Shore Road and several cafes and pubs serving food and drinks, including the Oak Tree Inn and the Village Rest. The Balmaha Visitor Centre at the eastern end of the village provides information about the area and the West Highland Way.

Parking in Drymen is available in pay-and-display car parks, with tariffs displayed on machines. Balmaha has limited parking on Shore Road and at the Balmaha Car Park near the visitor centre, which fills quickly during busy times, so arriving early or using alternative transport is advisable.