Hikers suffer severe injuries following a fall on the challenging undulating part of Scotland's renowned West Highland Way trail.
In a recent incident, three hikers suffered serious injuries after falling on a rocky section of the West Highland Way, a 96-mile footpath that stretches from just outside of Glasgow to the foot of Ben Nevis in Fort William. The incident occurred on July 22 near Ivow Island, along the eastern bank of Loch Lomond.
According to the LLRB incident report, both patients had fallen from height landing on rocks. One hiker left the scene before the arrival of the rescue team, while the other two were attended to by the Loch Lomond Rescue Boat, which was paged and launched at 3:55pm. The exact number of times the hikers fell or the condition of the missing hiker were not mentioned in the report.
The West Highland Way attracts as many as 40,000 walkers each year during the summer months, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. However, the trail can be challenging, particularly the Devil’s Staircase within the Glen Coe to Kinlochleven part of the trail.
For safety in this steep and challenging area, it is recommended to wear sturdy, well-fitting hiking boots with good grip to handle the steep ascent and potentially boggy terrain. Trekking poles can help maintain balance on steep switchbacks and uneven ground. Carry waterproof clothing, as wet and muddy conditions are common in this area.
Reliable GPS navigation tools, such as the AllTrails app or another offline map app, are essential for confirming your route and progress, especially since signage may be sparse and paths less distinct in places. Pacing yourself and taking breaks at strategic points, like the plateau and rock piles intersection, is also important.
Prepare for rapidly changing weather common in the Scottish Highlands by taking layered clothing, windproof and waterproof gear, and emergency supplies like extra food and water. The terrain and weather can easily compound to create hazardous walking conditions.
Planning your hiking days carefully is also crucial, as some sections of the West Highland Way can be remote with limited facilities. Consider lodging and resupply points in advance, as some stretches may have limited accommodation or food options.
Our website offers a newsletter with inspiration, tips, and guides for planning outdoor activities, including articles on waterproof jackets suitable for hiking and rain pants suitable for various weather conditions. Stay safe and enjoy your adventures on the West Highland Way!
[1] AllTrails App: https://www.alltrails.com/ [2] West Highland Way Official Guide: https://www.west-highland-way.co.uk/ [3] Scottish Mountain Rescue: https://scottishmountainrescue.org/ [4] Macs Adventure: https://www.macsadventure.com/uk/scotland/west-highland-way-walking-holidays/
- Despite the popularity of the West Highland Way for outdoor enthusiasts, accidents like the recent falls can occur, highlighting the need for careful preparation and adherence to safety guidelines.
- For those embarking on the challenging sections of the West Highland Way, such as the Devil’s Staircase, using hiking boots with good grip, trekking poles, and waterproof clothing can help mitigate the risks of accidents like falls on rugged terrain.
