On 27th May 2027, my husband and I will walk the full 154km West Highland Way in memory of my dad.

The West Highland Way was a special place for him. He completed it at least 9 times over the years, including once in just 3 days while working for BT. The Scottish Highlands always drew him back and the route became an important part of his life.

Dad died on 1st June 2026. In keeping with his wishes, he chose a direct cremation without a traditional funeral. As well as taking on the physical challenge of 7 days through beautiful, unpredictable and demanding terrain, this walk will be my opportunity to remember Dad, celebrate the places he loved, and take the time to say goodbye.

Starting in Milngavie, I will carry his ashes along the West Highland Way until 1st June 2027, the 1st anniversary of his death and 6 days into our hike. On that day, we will reach the Devil’s Staircase and scatter his ashes respectfully in the surrounding area.

I chose the Devil’s Staircase because it is the highest point on the route and offers stunning views across Glencoe, one of Dad’s favourite places. It feels like the perfect place for him to become part of the landscape he loved. The following day, we will continue to Fort William and complete the final stage of the challenge.

The West Highland Way Trust does far more than maintain the path itself. It supports the development, promotion and upkeep of the West Highland Way, helping to ensure that people can continue to enjoy one of Scotland's most iconic long distance routes. It also protects and enhances the landscapes, habitats and wildlife that make the trail so special, preserves the natural, cultural and social heritage of the route, and supports the rural communities that welcome walkers along the way.

For Dad, the West Highland Way was never simply a footpath. It was a place to challenge himself, reconnect with nature, appreciate Scotland's history and spend time in landscapes he loved. The Trust works to ensure that those same experiences remain available for future generations.

Every year, people travel from across the UK and around the world to walk the West Highland Way for their own reasons: to celebrate milestones, spend time with loved ones, overcome personal challenges, recover from difficult times, or simply experience the beauty of the Highlands.

By supporting this fundraiser, you will be helping to preserve not only a long-distance trail, but also the landscapes, wildlife, heritage and communities that make it such a meaningful journey for so many people. In doing so, you'll help ensure that future walkers can experience the same sense of adventure, connection and achievement that meant so much to Dad.

To learn more about the route and the Trust's work, visit westhighlandway.org⁠

Thank you for your support.

Janine

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