West Highland Way in a Weekend: Doing the Loch Lomond Stages Only

Hiking the Loch Lomond stages from Drymen to Rowardennan covers around 24 miles (38 km) and typically takes two days, with moderate to difficult walking conditions.

The first day usually covers the 7 miles (11 km) to Balmaha, a forested route through Queen Elizabeth Forest Park that takes about 3 to 4 hours at a steady pace. This section includes gentle climbs and well-maintained paths. The second day is longer and more challenging: about 17 miles (27 km) from Balmaha to Rowardennan. This route follows Loch Lomond’s eastern shore, with steeper ascents near Ben Lomond and some rocky terrain. Expect 6 to 8 hours walking time depending on fitness and breaks.

Some walkers prefer splitting the second day into two shorter days by arranging transport from Rowardennan or stopping overnight at intermediate points. Weather conditions and daylight hours in different seasons can also affect walking times.

Balmaha and Rowardennan provide a range of accommodation options including guesthouses, hostels, B&Bs, and small hotels, with prices generally between GBP 20 and GBP 120 per night.

In Balmaha, the Oak Tree Inn on Main Street features rooms from roughly GBP 70 to GBP 120 per night, depending on the season and room type. The Loch Lomond Waterfront Hostel provides dormitory beds priced between GBP 20 and GBP 35. Booking early is recommended from late spring to early autumn, as availability decreases during peak months.

Rowardennan has fewer options but features the Rowardennan Youth Hostel near the loch shore with beds around GBP 25 to GBP 40. A handful of B&Bs charge between GBP 60 and GBP 90 per night. Some accommodations include luggage storage and meal services, which can be useful for hikers continuing along the West Highland Way or returning to Drymen.

Key items include waterproof clothing, sturdy boots with ankle support, layered clothing, at least 1.5 litres of water, snacks, and a reliable map or GPS device.

Weather around Loch Lomond changes quickly, with rain possible year-round. Waterproof jackets and trousers are essential to stay dry and comfortable. Footwear should be robust enough to handle rocky or muddy sections, especially near Ben Lomond. Dressing in layers allows hikers to adapt to cool mornings, warmer afternoons, and potential wind or rain.

Although the West Highland Way is well marked, having an OS Landranger 56 map or downloaded GPS route adds safety. Mobile phone reception is generally good but may be patchy in some forested or remote areas. Carrying high-energy snacks such as nuts, chocolate, or energy bars is advisable as shops are limited along the trail.

Public transport options include Stagecoach bus services from Balmaha to Drymen and Balloch, and from Balloch connections to Glasgow trains and buses; seasonal water taxis operate between Rowardennan, Balmaha, and Luss from April to October.

Stagecoach buses run several times a day between Balmaha and Drymen, with fares typically between GBP 5 and GBP 8. From Balloch, trains to Glasgow Queen Street run frequently, with journey times around 45 minutes. Water taxis operate on Loch Lomond from Rowardennan to Balmaha and Luss during the warmer months, reducing travel time and providing a scenic alternative.

Timetables vary seasonally and services may be limited on Sundays or public holidays. It is important to check current schedules before travelling. Private taxis or transfer companies are also available, but these are significantly more expensive and should be booked in advance.

The route passes through forested areas of Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, features views over Loch Lomond towards Ben Lomond, and includes points of historical interest such as the ruins near Rowardennan and the village of Balmaha.

Walking from Drymen, the trail winds through ancient pine and oak woodlands where the scent of damp earth and pine resin is strong. Balmaha, on the loch’s eastern shore, hosts the West Highland Way Visitor Centre on Main Street, which provides maps, local history, and refreshments. The path along the loch’s edge reveals wide water views with hills rising sharply across the water.

Near Rowardennan, the terrain becomes steeper, with rocky sections and remains of old crofting settlements visible. Wildlife such as red squirrels dart among the branches, and birdsong punctuates the quiet forest stretches. Conic Hill, near Balmaha, is a popular detour with panoramic views over the loch and islands.

Starting early in the day helps avoid afternoon crowds and benefits from calmer weather and better light for views, while booking accommodation and transport well in advance is essential during busy months.

Many walkers recommend buying sandwiches or snacks in Drymen or Balmaha before setting off, as food options along the trail are limited. Balmaha Bay picnic area makes a good lunch stop, and the climb up Conic Hill near Drymen is worthwhile for its extensive views over Loch Lomond.

Local advice also suggests preparing for sudden weather changes with suitable rain gear and footwear, and considering luggage transfer services to lighten your load for the hike. Guided tours focusing on these stages can add local knowledge and logistical support without the need to arrange everything independently.

Several companies provide guided walking tours covering the Drymen to Rowardennan sections, including luggage transfers, accommodation bookings, and private transport options.

Prices for 2-day guided walks range from GBP 150 to GBP 300 per person, depending on group size and included services. These tours typically include local guides familiar with the area’s terrain and history, making navigation easier and adding context. Private transfers between trailheads or accommodations can be arranged for convenience, particularly for those with limited time or carrying heavy gear.

Local tourism sites and platforms such as VisitDrymen.co.uk list operators and offer booking contacts. It is best to check availability in advance, especially for popular summer months.

Hikers should be prepared for changeable weather, some steep or rocky terrain, and limited facilities along sections of the route, especially between Balmaha and Rowardennan.

Waterproof clothing and sturdy boots are necessary due to muddy or slippery paths. The route is well marked but fog or rain can reduce visibility. Mobile phone coverage is mostly reliable but can be patchy in forested or remote areas. Carrying a physical map or GPS device is recommended.

Wildlife such as red squirrels and birds are common but do not pose risks. There are no known significant scams or safety issues in the area, but standard precautions apply — keep valuables secure and be cautious on narrow or steep paths.

Late spring through early autumn (May to September) is the most suitable period for hiking the Loch Lomond stages due to longer daylight hours and milder weather.

Summer months see the warmest temperatures, though rain remains frequent. Midges can be a nuisance from late May to early September, especially in the evenings and near water. Early morning or autumn hikes tend to have fewer insects and less crowded paths. Winter and early spring hikes are possible but require preparation for cold, wet conditions and shorter days.

Facilities such as accommodation and water taxis operate primarily in the warmer months. Some pubs, shops, and visitor centres reduce their opening hours outside of peak season.

A reasonable level of fitness is required for these stages, especially for the longer second day from Balmaha to Rowardennan, which includes steep climbs and uneven terrain.

The first day’s walk from Drymen to Balmaha is moderate and suitable for walkers accustomed to several hours of hiking. The second day demands more endurance: expect significant elevation gain near Ben Lomond and rocky paths that require careful footing. Those with limited fitness may prefer to split the route into shorter days or arrange transport for part of the trail.

Walking poles can be helpful on steep or rough sections. Pace yourself and take regular breaks to avoid fatigue.

The West Highland Way Visitor Centre in Balmaha provides maps, local trail advice, and refreshments, while various online resources offer detailed route guides, accommodation listings, and transport information.

Balmaha’s Visitor Centre on Main Street is open daily from 9am to 6pm (April to October) and sells OS maps and hiking guides. Local pubs and shops can also provide practical tips and information on weather or trail conditions.

Websites such as westhighlandway.org and the VisitDrymen.co.uk travel guide pages contain up-to-date details on accommodation, transport, and safety advice.