Solo Camping Along The West Highland Way | Learning To Thrive
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- Опубликовано: 3 июл 2024
- The West Highland Way (WHW) runs for 96 miles from Milngavie to Fort William, travelling through some of the most stunning landscapes in Scotland. It passes alongside lochs and rivers, travels through forest and moorlands, explores countless historical sites, and encompasses mountains of all scales, including Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK.
Abbie set out to walk and camp along the trail in May 2018, retracing their route taken in 2012 when they walked the trail as their first long-distance route at the age of 16. Through this film, they reveal the realities of life on the trail, from dealing with swarms of midges to avoiding large groups of sightseers, but along the way rediscovers what it means to thrive. They stay at campsites along the way and in 2022 went back to wild camp the trail.
00:00 - Intro
01:59 - Day One, Travel to Milngavie, Walk to Drymen
18:17 - Day Two, Drymen to Rowchoish Bothy
37:38 - Day Three, Rowchoish Bothy to Inverarnan
52:25 - Day Four, Inverarnan to Bridge Of Orchy
1:15:20 - Day Five, Bridge Of Orchy to Kinlochleven
1:33:47 - Day Six, Kinlochleven to Fort William
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Stay WILD!
Old grandad who used to love the outdoors ,now with a dicky heart and a collapsed lung , but watching your vids whilst shielding during covid kept my spirits up. Thank you Abbie.
I'm 56 years old, 18 stone and almost certainly going to be made redundant in the next 3 to 6 months. I can comfortably walk ten miles even at my size and these videos have inspired me to take on some trails when I am out of work. I know it'll be hard but you're never too old to give it a go. Thanks Abbie
Great attitude dude. Good luck.
Did you get to do some walks yet?
@@diedertspijkerboer was just about to ask the same thing
You'll be surprised how many good ideas you get when you're out on the trails. Hopefully you ll figure out something work wise when you're out there. I lost my job at the beginning of the pandemic and it forced me to get creative and look at stuff out of my comfort zone. I feel much better for it. Enjoy some glorious nature and you ll figure out something work wise. Good luck. 🤞
Fifty-six is young. Happy hiking.
You know, when you walk, you walk for so many people that unable to walk like you . Thank you for taking us to the beautiful places that we cannot go to by ourselves. 😊😊😊😊😊😊
you walk for so many people..? do you want me too see for you too? no because you just sit and munch on some more food ya phat crumpt
@@dannyplimsoul bit harsh, ever considered that said person you replied to may be unable to walk a long way due to health issues? Learn a wee bit of empathy 🤨
How perfectly delightful. Your permanent-grin is pure sunshine.
“...and this is where I can be the best that I can be, I’m not in competition with anybody, just myself” spot on Abbie, superbly put, you’re awesome.
“When you know what to look for there’s so much to see” .. beautiful.
Solo walkabouts are the best! Every thing is enhanced! Every where is undiscovered until we see it for ourselves!
This is still the 'go to' video for the West Highland Way. It genuinely covers everything anyone could possibly need to know about it. Thank you so much for taking the time, not only to walk the 96 miles, but to document it in such an upbeat, spirited and informative way. I'm a huge fan of all your videos Abbie and this one in particular really benefited me when I planned my first WHW hike. (Sadly I didn't manage to finish it due to injury but come spring 2020 I'll be heading back out again).
All the best, Ewan
Best hour and 45 minutes I've spent in a long long time. I salute You Ma'am.
I couldn't think of a better person to narrate this beautiful hike. Thank you from New York.
New York in the house! And yes, it is a wonderful video.
Possibly Tom Weir, if he was still alive😉
agree from Argyle, New York, "Home of the Scots" , here on the US side of the pond.
I absolutely agree- she has a wonderful energy! I've just packed up the car and I'm heading to Scotland off of the back of this video!! Can't wait x
@@BellaDiary Shout out from Scotland,bring jerky and high life....
shame we don't see production of this quality on tv these days, and certainly not with anyone as likable as this lady , you can feel the warmth coming through the screen, what a lovely person
Walked this route back in July with my two dogs and 20kg of gear, wild camping the whole way in 6.5 days. This brings back good memories and makes me want to do it again this year.
Hi there. I am a complete novice who has never set a tent up in his life, i have never owned walking boots or walked any further than a to a bus or taxi rank (im sure you get the point lol) do you think i could do this walk if i had the right equipment? i also want to walk it solo. Thanks.
Tommy Taggart
I’ve never walked it either, but this video has encouraged me to give it a go. I say go for it!
Tommy Taggart: as Abbie says, it’s a perfect first long-distance trail but it’s worth doing a little conditioning training first at walking with a loaded pack and also getting your feet used to whichever boots you plan to wear. Also practice pitching your shelter, cooking on your stove etc in case you need to do it in challenging conditions. But there are so many places to divert off the trail, really you’d have to be pretty unlucky to come to serious grief unless the weather really goes wild. I remember when I solo-hiked the WHW some years back - my feet were cut to ribbons by my boots and I had to take a day’s recovery midway at the YHA in Crianlarich to let them recover. But there are very few truly remote parts of the trail and plenty of inns/hotels/campsites/villages/stations etc where you can divert if it proves too much. But go for it, I say - nothing ventured, and all that!
I struggle with a 30lb pack 🤔unless you used the dog as pack mules 😁 well done !
Well Abbie....I have watched many many videos and even series of videos of peoples adventures on the WHW.....and none of them can come up to your level of plain enjoyment that you showed all through your walk....even with sore feet!!..... Thank you so much for bringing us with you it was a lovely treat💞🎇
My wife and I thoroughly enjoy watching your adventures. We want to give you a hug when you are down. We think your'e great as do 7.2k subscribers. A BIG THANKS from us.
You shine Abbie. Some people do. I usually hike alone but I'd love to hike with you. You appreciate and are interested in everything....and always bursting with gratitude for the experience. The perfect trail company. Keep doing what you do.
I'm in the video at the start of the trail! Absolutely gorgeous walk and this is a perfect documentation of it!
Found this on RUclips by accident, and have to say, it’s rather inspiring. For many reasons - the host, the attitude, the enthusiasm and passion, the content, and the production value.
It’s also on one of my all time favourite locations.
Your enthusiasm and knowledge of Natural History are inspirational. I walked the Way last year and you gave me even more insight than I had. Thank-you!
Yeah! I have done it! 3 days ago I completed WHW. I walked 96 miles from exicting through sweat, pain and tiredness to happiness. Thanks Abbie and other hikers for inspiring me. It was my first hiking with a tent and I enjoyed it a lot. Can`t wait for another adventure. Stay wild!
.... "sometimes the silence is very loud" ... well-put
Hi Abbie, I watched your West Highland Way video - Fantastic - Your personality and enthusiasm is infectious and your narration is very professional. Your very upbeat which translates to the viewer. Keep up the good work.
Thoroughly enjoyed watching this, my new favourite youtuber, it really helped calm my anxiety and distracted me from my other mental health issues. I definitely need to do this walk it looks amazing. I'm a big believer that nature is the best cure for poor mental health. Take care, have fun and I can't wait to watch the rest of your videos and watch new ones as you make them 😊
Your smiling face and positivity is awesome! The commentary is perfect! Thank you for bringing back memories of my walk on The Way. Can’t wait to do it again!
I walked the WHW in 1982, from Fort William to Drymen. Last year I walked the last bit from Milngavie to Drymen. The start is a bit changed. The white wall on the right is now covered by 96 vertical beams, 1 for each mile, with places of interest put on them.
Absolutely love your videos, you have such a nice and honest way with words Abbie, an inspiration for me.
Brings it all back ,done it with my daughter (aged 11 )many years ago .Thanks for the memories.
That is the longest i have sat for years and watched anything, just like you not wanting your walk to end i found myself not wanting my viewing to end. Thank you so very much for posting this, it was honestly top notch viewing.
Great Film Abbie, I'm feeling inspired. Off to book my train to Scotland now.
I just discovered your channel this weekend. I have watched lots of other hiking/camping youtube videos but yours are the best I have found. I particularly enjoy the quick factual information parts about the local area. And your happy un-ego personality
Lots of happy memories of my first long distance walk which I did in 1993. The previous year I did a conservation working holiday working on the Way in the Bridge of Orchy to Tyndrum section. Seeing all the walkers going by made me determined to undertake it. Thank you!
absolutely awesome. Brilliant presentation. I am 83 years and have been to Scotland some 55 times. I call it 'magic Land' as the beauty can turn you to tears with happiness. I have not walked but have been peddle cycling, by car and by luxury rail travel and I understand the way you feel. I have been on the Glen Coe ski lift and did walk across the tops to stand in awe looking down into the glen. Your video is long but I was with you all the way. Thank you for your company.
Just finished the Turkish Lycian Way and are hungry for more. This looks like a great one to do. Thanks!
I was already in love with Scotland herself but, during this this video journal, I also fell in love with you, Abbie! Thank you. I feel so honoured that you let us in on your travels, both inner and outer.
What a lovely lass you are and the 2 dislikes need to get a grip. ATB Coops x
To be fair I just bumped it up to 43
Mega4Fun ruthless lol
Hi Abbie, its been 3 years since this, and love the fact its gained so many views, your a champ lass, and have inspired hundreds of thousands of people to face thier fears, you showed a lot of courage, and determination, I hope, 3 years later, your doing great, keep inspiring, your simply awesome.
Wow love the bit at the end where you talk about “thriving as me” that’s a great saying
Thank you so much. I have memories of the Doune Bothy from 1984 and how my group sheltered from a monster storm. Always wanted to see it again. Also great to see memories 're ignited. I'm sure you met the midges (darn things) their ancestors dined out on me for 10 days.
Loved this! Thanks Abbie! Planning out my post-quarantine adventures!
Your Enthusiasm not matter what the weather condition, is wonderfully infectious. Well Done
As an avid hiker myself, I have really enjoyed watching your long distance hiking videos and day hikes around the UK. They confirm my belief that hiking is far more about the adventure and exploration of new places than the workout which seems to be an obsession with so many people. Your connection to the landscape, and focus on outstanding scenery, wildlife, plants and historical landmarks encountered on your hikes provide the viewer with a unique experience and appreciation of the British countryside! Thanks!
Really inspiring and it felt like I was really with you on your walk . Well done 👍 and very inspiring 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
What a fantastic production, so much character and enthusiasm of my homeland, made me smile the entire way, really felt I was there with you Abbie. You deserve much more respect and recognition for your production quality but in all fairness your character and charisma have kept me watching your videos. Thanks. 😉
Thanks for sharing a joy to watch..
Fabulous as always, thank you for all you do to take us along with you.
You are now my favorite RUclips channel. I enjoyed every minute of this video. Love your personality, and how you really enjoyed everything of this trip. The great outdoor is something I immensely love and I can understand so well why you loved it so much. The scenery looks stunning and now I really want to visit Scotland. I've always traveled to Ireland, a country very dear to me, but Scotland looks just incredibly gorgeous. Thanks for sharing this experience with us, you now have another subscriber!
Edit: just to add: I LOVED it when you decided to go on the ski lift. That could have been me. That feeling of pure excitement and joy, that's what life is all about, and that's when you feel most alive. Again, thank you so much for this video. I'll check all the others out now as well!
Superb post Abbie, I enjoyed every second of it, you never cease to amaze me with your spirit of adventure, ability, enthusiasm and determination.....truly awe inspiring!
This was really well done. Thank you for taking us all along with you!
Thanks Abbie very inspirational
Abbie wow wow wow absolutely stunning inspirational video I’ve always wanted to do this walk myself but routine life has always got in the way and I’m now determined to make the time for myself to do it.
brilliant work look forward to watching the rest of your work thank you
"It's not terribly challenging in terms of terrain." Tell that to my knee that went out on me after day 3. The section between Rowardennan and Inverarnan was rough.
we’ve all got different tolerances and challenges, terribly sorry about your knee :( hope you’re doing better now!
I know how disappointing it can be to have serious knee pain when the rest of you is full speed ahead.
Wonderful video, thank you Abbie.
A sheer delight Abbie, nothing less.
The fresh air , scenery and glorious mountain views is why we do this with huge smiles on our faces.
You're only here once.... appreciate it !
This is one to watch. Just starting to get interested in backpacking (as opposed to long distance walks with B&Bs). I'll take notes on your vlog, especially re water & provisions.
Just about to go to bed and this pops up and of course I have to watch it! I do love the west of Scotland from Loch Lomond all the way up to Skye. I stayed in Kinlochleven for a couple of weeks with work once and it is a nice place to stay but live...I don't know. It does suffer from the dreaded midge and one of the few things that I would say that I hate is the Scottish Midge. I always try to visit Scotland out of midge season. Epic trek Abbie and it looks like you really enjoyed so thanks for taking us along. Looking forward to to your Great Glen trek.
Absolutely amazing documentary....can’t wait to do this! Thank you
Totally awesome video. Thank you so much for the time and effort to share with us!!
wow! you should work on the BBC, you've got a great personality, totally inspiring. Thanks.
In all honesty i thought it was a BBC production for the first few minutes.
Yes, very professionally done.
Dont work for the BBC they are evil . Stay independent. Great work.
@@stewartaird3242 exactly, far too good and unique for that horrible broadcaster. Her editing, camera quality and narration are brilliant.
As some one who has travelled the same path. I am really enloying the journey.
Thank you, wonderful presentation.
I first watched this video during Covid 2020. I had it all booked to be doing the trail. Then Covid came. Each day I watched where I should have been walking. I rebooked my walk for May 2021 and again I had to cancel it. I eventually did the walk in 2022. Each year I was getting older I was 67 when I did it . What a great time I had - I did it solo staying in BandBs and pods (plus 1 luxury night at the Kingshouse hotel ) over 7 days. Thank you, it my go to video when I want to relive the expereince.
Well done for persevering! That's admirable and I'm so glad you completed your dream 🤙
Thank you Abbie for releasing this documentary I have been waiting for it since you released the 3 min short. Super awesome trail! Any plans to hike in the States? The Appalachian Trail is calling your name!
ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC!! I always love your videos. Can I put in a request for you to do a video on travelling as a lone woman? tips and advice on walk planning is always welcome. Looking forward to more to come :)
Noted :)
hope you dont mind me jumping on the comment.. but i thought this link may interest you .. ://travellinglines.com/100-women-walk-run-solo/?fbclid=IwAR2GoTbhgWeByysZo-9Q4WaHaEY366Hho4iFFo1JcVeQy1DlliaAPALYoCQ
Agreed - wow. So beautiful.
Thank you, I really enjoy being able to see what is off the beaten path. Since I am now a Senior Citizen it is nice to enjoy your trip. You walks remind me of my youth when I was an avid cyclist and did a lot of bike touring. You are correct being outdoors put you more in tune with nature and just the activity alone shifts your mind. When I left work and rode my bike home by the time I got home not a single thought of work was with me. I loved the weather changes, smelling the earth and getting away from traffic. Your wonderful.
Okay, long term goal: once I've go a couple of overnight hikes under my belt here in the Netherlands, I'm crossing the channel. This is so insanely beautiful :O
Do it. Did it last year. One of the best trips in my life. In june resuming the route with the Great Glen Way. Cheers from a fellow Dutchy
Yehh planning on doing this next year (greetings from Amsterdam😃)
Beautifully done as always. I am very proud of you for surviving EasyJet. No mean feat 😆
What a ridiculous thing to say.
Max Flight Not as ridiculous as you are dickhead. Ive seen your channel. 😂 Now go away and shout out of a window to make yourself feel better. Arsehole.
Englishman Abroad .... Fuck you !
Anti-EasyJet ? How pitiful ? I guess you are too good to fly? Tell us more ...
Yikes, this convo went south quite quickly.
Fantastic video, Abbie! I really enjoyed that one... thanks, as always, for taking us with you
Thank you for this.
All I can say is "wow!" Abbie, this film production is world class, and your narration is beyond being "professional" ha! Your wisdom at the 1:12:20 mark is just what I needed to hear as I am in my final preparation of getting ready to set out on my thru-hike attempt of the Appalachian Trail starting on March 26th, 2019! All the best to you with cheers from Western Canada! Hike on! Lamplighter 2019 out! 😎👍
Lamp Lighter Saw your comment; TWO days from your AT start!! Best of luck and have a great time! Hike on!! 😁
@@seakayaker1470 Thank you very much for the best wishes regarding my A.T. thru-hike. Due to some family health issues with one of our daughters, I have decided to reatempt my thru-hike in 2020. I did manage to tackle the approach trail and made it up to Springer Mountain before deciding to return home. Your encouragement is very much appreciated! Cheers, Lamplighter 2020 out! 👍😎
So lovely to watch, so thanks Abbie xx
Thanks Abbie.....beautifully presented stunning journey! Very inspiring
Enchanting video.
Wonderful presentation yet again! Thank you for showing us your journey!
Many many thanks for bringing us along with you on this adventure ATB
Can’t wait to watch this one!
loved this , enjoyed it all the way thru .
Great film and looks like a great hike! Thanks for sharing the experience.
Thanks for sharing this Abbie.
i love youre passion about nature . thanks for the walk abbie
Thank you for sharing! I really enjoyed watching your journey..
Great video, thanks for sharing. Enjoyed your Iceland video as well. Canoed loch lomond in the 90’s. Keep the videos coming. And again and again find something to be great full for. Greetings from The Netherlands 🇳🇱
Thank you so much for taking us along on the West Highland Way!
That was absolutely brilliant
Another awsome film abbie . thanks
Awesome Abbie 👍🏼 well done, thank you for all your hard work editing it etc. Wonderfully done, looking forward to your next adventure. 👏🏼👏🏼
I loved this, thank you for sharing. You’re a breath of fresh air!
Thank you for sharing your journey with us Abbie, you are a natural beauty and a wonderful orator.
Keep on fighting your fight.
Enjoyed the watch . Thanks
I have lived my entire life on the doorstep of the West Highland Way but sadly never did the walk and I am to old to attempt it now. I really enjoyed watching this video. When I saw the King's house Hotel it brought back happy memories, I worked there for a week 40 years while refitting the carpets
Fabulous!
Thank you for sharing your journey with us! You were so positive and inspiring to watch so I subscribed. Much appreciation from Texas!
Great job narrating a great adventure!
Great to watch you... Thank you for sharing your adventures.
Well done Abbie! The video turned out wonderfully. The visual and sound had great clarity. I loved it.
Brilliant docu, as much for the practical & historical narration as for your enthusiasm. Fab.
I have just finished watching this... Thank you! An amazing video and adventure.
Loved the scenery and your infectious enthusiasm made it all the more special. Well done to you.
So beautiful.Thank you so much for sharing these special places.
you make me smile, thank you for a lovely hike.
Great video Abbie xxx inspirational