5-Day Great Glen Way Route Itinerary — Hiker Pace

Leave Fort William from the bronze statue near Lochaber Leisure Centre and follow the Caledonian Canal towpath northeast. Pass Neptune's Staircase, an impressive flight of eight locks engineered by Thomas Telford in 1822, before arriving at the quiet hamlet of Gairlochy. A gentle opening day to find your rhythm.

Follow the eastern shore of Loch Lochy through mixed woodland, with views across the water to the hills beyond. The trail undulates through forest tracks before reaching Laggan Locks, where the Eagle Barge Inn — a converted Dutch barge — offers refreshments in a memorable setting.

The longest day of the itinerary. Walk along Loch Oich and through Fort Augustus, where the Caledonian Canal descends through five dramatic locks into Loch Ness. Continue along the loch's western shore through Inchnacardoch Forest to the village of Invermoriston, with its historic bridge and riverside setting.

The most demanding day for elevation. Climb through forest above Loch Ness with increasingly dramatic views as you gain height. The trail passes through Grotaig and descends past Urquhart Castle — a worthwhile 2 km detour — before reaching Drumnadrochit with its hotels, pubs, and the Loch Ness Exhibition Centre.

A big finish. Climb to Abriachan with panoramic views over Loch Ness, then traverse open moorland and forest before descending through woodland to the Caledonian Canal at Clachnaharry. Follow the River Ness into the heart of Inverness, finishing at Inverness Castle. A celebratory dram awaits.