Knowing it was quite a long day, we set off around 8:30 am. One of the fun things about this final day is that pretty much everyone is doing the same route so folks are like ants on the trail when it opens up. As always, the initial climb out of Kinlochleven was pretty brutal. Slow and steady, check out the views and you get there.
Levelling Out
Once up the main climb for the day things level out, undulations thereafter but nothing too challenging. In contrast to the chill of yesterday, today was positively balmy!
On the flatter ground, we were both glad we’d opted for trail shoes rather than boots today. Yesterday’s long day had left my feet feeling tender while Bruce has very unusually had a nasty blister all week. My Hokas were were so much more comfortable and cushioned.
The sunshine and stunning views more than made up for the wind today. It was good to chat to folks as we passed / they passed us, and highly entertaining to see the trail of folks spread out along the route.
It got pretty breezy so my wind shirt went back on again pretty swiftly. The wind was pretty ferocious at points, blowing me about a bit.
Continuing on, the views just kept coming. It’s so important to stop and look back too.
Moving away from the corbett and rounding a bend, the wind dropped a bit which was a welcome relief.
Beautiful Ben Nevis
The reward on a day like this with clear skies and sunshine is climbing a slight incline to see Ben Nevis. On many days, this stunning beast of a mountain has its head in the clouds. Not so today.
I love this section and the views. I can never get enough of this!
As we got closer and closer, we were surprised by how little snow appeared to be on the summit. With the high temperatures today there will likely be a significant melt, the danger of that being a subsequent freeze of temperatures then drop overnight.
Once past this section it feels to us like the West Highland Way is done. The path descends and then climbs up to a forest, thereafter a forest trail is followed that eventually drops you out opposite the Ben Nevis Visitor Centre. By this point we were feeling very hot and keen to get an ice cream. Sadly this was not to be, the centre closed.
Sair Feet: The Finish
Following the road back round from Glen Nevis, we made our way into Fort William and along to the bench and statue that heralds the finish. We waited our turn for a photo.
Then headed up to the Black Isle Bar for refreshment. There we met a number of fellow walkers, including Sue and George. A lovely way to end a very special walk. It truly is a privilege to have the health and opportunity to enjoy these experiences.
Here’s to many more!
Clare, happiest outdoors! 
Another great adventure xx
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