
Scotland's bikepacking cycle trail ferry-hopping the stunning west coast and ideal for gravel bikes
Updated for 2026

A 450 mile route (roughly) for bikepackers mixing long sections of traffic-free gravel with 7 ferries to explore the best of Scotland's west coast
Starting in Fort William, sections can be ridden over a long weekend, a week or a fortnight for the full trail - although some people will finish much faster
The maps / GPX files, updated for 2026, are below and an updated Trail Notes e-booklet is available by donation to the Scottish Wildlife Trust
The Trail Notes -
This is not a particularly difficult route - almost the whole journey is rideable and a gravel bike is ideal for the mix of surfaces
The ferries add to the adventure and complexity, particularly when trying to arrange overnight accommodation, so carrying a tent or bivvi is handy
Due to heavy construction traffic around Inverary I've had to divert the route for 2026, temporary for now but perhaps it will become permanent
This regularly updated 60 page booklet is your PDF guidebook and will help your planning
To receive a copy please make a donation to the Scottish Wildlife Trust by clicking the image alongside.
You will receive a 'Thank you' message from JustGiving with a link to download the PDF file to your computer
Keep the link! I update the Trail notes as feedback reaches me and the same link will get you the latest info before you start - currently on
2026 V1 February 2026
The 2026 route

The travel
The start at Fort William is served from Glasgow by ScotRail's Highland Explorer carriage with space for 20 bicycles and it's also a destination for The Caledonian Sleeper train from Euston, with cheap seats and expensive cabins
There are return stations along the route at Oban, Dalmally, Bridge of Orchy, Rannoch and Corrour
The fastest way to the start from Glasgow and Edinburgh is Ember, an electric coach service with space for two bikes which also runs Oban to Fort William

The online shop

There is a wide range of print-on-demand products featuring the WCCT eagle logo printed on demand by Spreadshirt (best I could find) - I like the JAKO technical shirts
T-SHIRTS & HOODIES
You can also buy Charlotte's artwork of the route as posters and greetings cards, printed and fulfilled by Teemill
ARTWORK

The video
Artwork - Charlotte Anderson








