The West Highland Way, Solo

I set off on the West Highland Way on a whim. I had no idea what I was getting into -- walking close to 100 miles up the length of Scotland, from the lowlands to the highlands, alone (in October!).

What most surprised me, was not the walking itself - the slowing of the mind, the hardening of the calves (he), and how walking CURED my Achilles tendinitis ( a personal miracle!!). No one had prepared me for the joviality of a group of strangers, all walking alone, but also together. Setting off by myself, by the last day I had found a group of strange, mad people carrying heavy bags and wearing soaked shoes as we clambered our way through Lairigmor pass and on to Fort William.

I've read both of the books that inspire many long distance walkers -- Bill Bryson's Appalachian trail chronicle, and Cheryl Strayeds Wild.  Bryson's book is marked by his ruminations on the history of the land he walks, his call for conservation, and the strange and wonderful characters he meets along the way. Strayed's book is more about finding a way through personal strife and pain, while also commenting on overcoming fear as a solo woman in the wild.

I found elements of both of these books on the West Highland way ( which given that it is seven days, with a hot shower every night, is admittedly a much softer version of a long distance hike). I found odd paternal comments and slight shock from older men walking the way, online commentary warning women not to go alone, and a peace of mind from the single mindedness of just walking. I also met a bevy of beautiful and odd people, and walked through clear cut forest more often than not.

So in finish, I say -- go alone. You'll find the best of both worlds as you meet other walkers, struggle through the hard ( windy, rainy, and just plain freezing) places alone, and when you're lonely, find a group to sing into the rain over the many miles with.

I'll post a chronicle of my time on the West Highland Way later this week.

xx