Taynuilt to Bridge of Orchy
A station-to-station walk
Recommended: Great scenery for much of the route; some good views of the mountains around lower Glen Etive. A long, remote and committing walk on forestry and estate paths along Loch Etive and up Glen Kinglass, climbing to nearly 300 metres. The higher sections are rugged with wet boggy ground, slippery rocks, numerous stream crossings and a couple of rickety bridges and before joining the rocky West Highland Way to Bridge of Orchy. Sheep and cows along the way; can be very exposed in poor weather. Joins the West Highland Way for the final section over the hill from the Inveroran Hotel to Bridge of Orchy. Wild-camping spots exist beside the river near the Glen Kinglass junction, by Loch Dochard and near the Inveroran Hotel. Reviewer suggests starting at Bridge of Orchy puts the harder terrain early. The Oban and West Highland lines have infrequent services.
Lunch: No facilities along the way; come fully provisioned.
Warnings: A long, exposed and committing route with no escape options if bad weather hits; good footwear and full weather kit essential. Wet boggy sections, slippery rocks, multiple stream crossings and a rickety bridge or two on the higher ground. Cows with calves graze some fields, so keep dogs under close control. Sparse, infrequent train services at both ends need careful planning. Can be muddy.
Credits
Walk details: Slow Ways.