Day 2: Hiking the West Highland Way – Conic Hill & Wild Camping at Lochan Maoil Dhuinne
Day 2 of my West Highland Way adventure unfolded with a hike full of challenges and breathtaking moments, as I trekked from Drymen to the wild camping area at Lochan Maoil Dhuinne. This day was a true immersion into the stunning landscapes of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, where every step brought me closer to nature’s raw beauty.
Starting the day in the charming village of Drymen, I enjoyed a hearty breakfast at Skoosh, where the menu allowed for a personal touch. The Scottish breakfast, complete with haggis, gave me the energy I needed for the journey ahead. Haggis, which I’ve come to appreciate, has a flavor and texture that reminds me of the dense, moist stuffing from Thanksgiving dinner. Fuelled and ready, I set off toward Conic Hill.
📍 Watch the start of the day in Drymen here:
The hike to Conic Hill was not without a few detours. At one point, I got lost while chatting with locals but quickly found my way back to the trail. Conic Hill, known for its dramatic ascent and unparalleled views of Loch Lomond, stood before me, its peak seeming to disappear into the windy sky. Despite calling it “Cronic Hill” as a joke due to its challenge, reaching the summit was well worth the effort.
📍 Check out my approach to Conic Hill here:
The climb up Conic Hill was a test of endurance, but the panoramic views from the top were nothing short of breathtaking. Strong winds added a layer of adventure, but the 360-degree views over Loch Lomond and its surrounding landscapes made the struggle to the summit feel insignificant. The sight of the loch, its islands stretching into the distance, was a reward unlike any other.
📍 Watch me conquer Conic Hill and enjoy the 360-degree views here:
As I descended from Conic Hill, the trail led me into the heart of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. The shoreline of Loch Lomond was a serene contrast to the windy summit, with its quiet beaches and calming waters. Walking through the Birch tree forests, the sound of rustling leaves and distant waves created a sense of peace and solitude that’s hard to find anywhere else.
📍 Explore Loch Lomond’s beaches and Birch tree forests here:
The day concluded at the Lochan Maoil Dhuinne camping area, a remote and tranquil spot nestled by the loch. With my tent set up on a rock outcropping near the water’s edge, I had a front-row seat to one of the most stunning sunsets I’ve ever witnessed. As the sun dipped behind the mountains, the sky transformed into a palette of oranges and purples, reflecting off the still waters of Loch Lomond.
This day, from the challenging climb of Conic Hill to the peaceful wild camp at Lochan Maoil Dhuinne, was a true reflection of what makes the West Highland Way such a remarkable experience.
📍 See the magical sunset at Lochan Maoil Dhuinne here:
Keywords:
- West Highland Way Day 2
- Conic Hill hike
- Loch Lomond views
- Wild camping Scotland
- Lochan Maoil Dhuinne
- Birch tree forest hike
- Scenic hiking trails Scotland
- Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park
- Scottish wilderness