West Highland Way Stage 2: Drymen to Rowardennan Over Conic Hill

This stage is moderately difficult; it involves a steep climb to Conic Hill’s summit and uneven surfaces along forest and lochside paths. The ascent up Conic Hill typically takes between one and one and a half hours. The trail includes rocky sections and exposed ridges, requiring good fitness and solid hiking boots.

After the summit, the descent follows forest tracks through Cashel Forest and then more level paths along the loch’s eastern shore. These lower sections are easier but can be slippery when wet. Wind and rain often increase difficulty, especially on exposed hilltops. Checking the local weather forecast before setting out, such as on the UK Met Office, helps walkers prepare.

This stage suits walkers with some hill walking experience, as the terrain and weather can be challenging. Basic navigation skills are helpful, especially in forested areas where signs can be sparse.

Conic Hill’s summit is the key highlight, providing expansive views over Loch Lomond, its islands, and the surrounding Trossachs hills. On a clear day, islands like Inchcailloch and higher peaks such as Ben Lomond to the north are visible.

The route passes through a mixture of landscapes: open moorland on the hill, dense mixed woodland in Cashel Forest, and native Scots pine and oak along the loch shore. Wildlife is often seen, including red squirrels, roe deer, and various birds such as ospreys and woodland songbirds.

Near Rowardennan, the trail skirts sandy bays like Sallochy Bay, where the loch’s calm water laps quietly against the shore. The Rowardennan Youth Hostel and the nearby Rowardennan Hotel provide a chance to rest with views across the water.

Suitable footwear, layered clothing, and enough food and water for 6 to 7 hours of walking over 12 miles are essential. Conic Hill’s exposed summit can be cold and windy regardless of season, so waterproof and windproof clothing is necessary.

A detailed map of the West Highland Way or a GPS device is recommended, as some sections—especially through Cashel Forest—have limited signage. Mobile phone reception is patchy near the hilltop and along Loch Lomond’s shore. Inform someone of your walking plan before you start.

There are no shops or reliable water refill points between Drymen and Rowardennan, so bring enough water or carry a filtration system for natural sources like the Rowardennan burn, where water quality is generally good.

Drymen is accessible from Glasgow by train and bus, with regular services connecting through Balloch. The nearest train station is Balloch, about 6 miles south of Drymen, served by ScotRail trains from Glasgow Queen Street approximately every 30 minutes during peak times.

From Balloch station, the number 57 bus runs roughly hourly to Drymen village centre, taking about 20 minutes. Alternatively, direct bus services such as the X56 depart from Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station and reach Drymen in around 50 minutes.

For those driving, parking is available near Drymen Village Hall on Main Street with pay-and-display machines. Parking tariffs and times are clearly posted; expect charges around GBP 1.50 per hour. Arriving early during May to September is recommended as spaces fill quickly on weekends.

Rowardennan has several accommodation options including the Rowardennan Youth Hostel and Rowardennan Hotel, both adjacent to Loch Lomond’s shore. The youth hostel features dormitory and private rooms, with prices typically between GBP 20 and 40 per night. Booking in advance is advisable during June to August.

The Rowardennan Hotel provides rooms with lake views and meals, with prices generally ranging from GBP 70 to 120 per night. Self-catering cottages such as those under Loch Lomond Holiday Cottages can also be found nearby for longer stays.

For more details on accommodation in Rowardennan, see the guide on Rowardennan.

Rowardennan has limited road access and relies mainly on ferry services for onward travel, especially to Tarbet. The primary ferry operator is Loch Lomond Seaplanes and Rowardennan Ferry, running from April to October. This service crosses Loch Lomond to Tarbet Pier, connecting with rail and bus links there.

No regular bus services operate directly from Rowardennan. Road transport is available at Tarbet station or Balmaha, which is accessible on foot or by ferry. Walking from Rowardennan to Balmaha along the loch shore takes 7 to 8 hours.

Local taxis can be booked but expect higher costs due to the remote location.

Starting early in the day helps avoid crowds on Conic Hill, which can see up to 100 walkers daily during summer months. Early morning light also improves visibility and makes photography easier.

Many walkers pause at Balmaha, about 5 miles from Conic Hill’s base, to rest and eat. The Oak Tree Inn on Balmaha’s Main Street serves traditional Scottish dishes and is a popular stop for refreshments.

Wild camping is permitted within parts of the Trossachs National Park, but campers should follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code and camp away from paths and buildings. Carrying a refillable bottle and using natural water sources responsibly helps reduce waste.

Weather on Conic Hill can change rapidly, so checking forecasts from the UK Met Office before setting out is key. Fog, rain, and strong winds can make navigation and footing difficult. Carry a whistle and a fully charged mobile phone for emergencies, but expect patchy signal on the hill and along the loch shore.

The trail is generally well marked but slippery in wet conditions. Inform someone of your route and expected return time. If weather worsens, descending early or finding shelter is advisable.

Wearing layers and carrying extra food and water can help prevent hypothermia or dehydration, especially on longer walks.

Several guided tours incorporate parts of the West Highland Way, including the Drymen to Rowardennan stretch, for those preferring not to walk the full route. Options include the Loch Lomond Scottish Highlands Full Day Sightseeing Tour and the Edinburgh Private Highlands Tour Loch Lomond Glen Coe.

These tours usually provide transport from Glasgow or Edinburgh and focus on key Loch Lomond sights along the way. Some also offer short walks or viewpoints on Conic Hill and the loch shore.