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Accommodation Provider |  |
Bothy |  |
Wild Camping / Campsite |
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Toilet | |
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Water Source – River / Mains | |
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Route Information / Route Warning |
Callop Bridge
The bridge crossing over the river Callop, approximately 0.5 miles from Glenfinnan is currently (October 2023) CLOSED as it is in a state of disrepair. More information can be found here.
Maps
| Harvey Maps |
| OS Maps – App Explorer Map 391 |
| Outdoor Active App |
Walk Statistics
| Distance | 21.26 miles |
| Time | Approx 10-12 hours |
| Ascent | 1878ft/572m |
So our journey starts
Embarking on the Cape Wrath Trail is an endeavour that beckons hikers seeking raw, unspoiled wilderness in the heart of Scotland. The initial leg from Fort William to Glenfinnan sets the tone for the rugged beauty and challenges.
Starting from Fort William, nestled in the shadow of Ben Nevis, the highest peak in the British Isles, hikers are greeted with a blend of anticipation and awe. The trail unfurls through diverse landscapes, offering a mesmerizing tapestry of lush glens, cascading waterfalls, and shimmering expanses of lochs. The iconic West Highland Way serves as a precursor, paving the way for the untamed journey ahead.
The trail demands respect, testing hikers’ mettle with its ever-changing weather and unforgiving terrain. Navigating through undulating paths and peat bogs demands resilience and a good pair of waterproof boots. However, each step reveals an unparalleled vista, rewarding those willing to push onward.
The scenery evolves as the route winds through Glen Nevis, presenting a canvas of dramatic cliffs and serene meadows. The allure of the ruins of old crofts and bothies peppered along the way adds an ethereal charm to the rugged landscape, carrying whispers of centuries-old tales.
Glenfinnan emerges on the horizon, signalling the end of this initial leg. The famous viaduct, a testament to engineering prowess, adds a touch of magic to the journey. The sight of the steam train passing over the arches, reminiscent of the Harry Potter films, is a moment of pure enchantment for weary but exhilarated hikers.
The Fort William to Glenfinnan stretch of the Cape Wrath Trail encapsulates the essence of what lies ahead: untamed beauty intertwined with the raw challenges of nature. It’s a segment that serves as a primer for the soul-stirring odyssey awaiting adventurers. As hikers catch their breath at the end of this stage, they’re left with a taste of the untamed wilderness and a hunger for the uncharted territories yet to be discovered on this remarkable trail.
About the Author
Mark is an award-winning qualified photographer and educator, with over 30 years of experience as a freelance photographer and holds a Master of Art in Photography, in addition to a BA (Hons) in photography degree; amongst other media qualifications.
On first submission, Mark was awarded by his peers at the Royal Photographic Society, both Associate and Licentiate Distinctions.
Mark is now a PhD candidate in photography, researching topography, the environment and the affect theory. Please consider supporting my research by donating a hiker’s meal to keep this site Ad-Free.