Where the Maah Daah Hey Trail Connects Theodore Roosevelt National Park

The Maah Daah Hey Trail runs from Medora to Watford City, North Dakota.
It links the north and south units of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. This connection lets adventurers explore some of the park’s most scenic and untouched landscapes.
Start at either end and you’ll discover rolling hills, painted cliffs, and wide-open skies.
Wildlife sightings are common—bison, prairie dogs, and eagles often appear along the trail.

The terrain shifts constantly. Expect steep climbs, twisting descents, and long, flat stretches perfect for biking or backpacking. Many trailheads and access points make it easy to plan your route. Choose a full thru-hike or a shorter day trip, each offers unforgettable views.

When to Visit the Maah Daah Hey Trail

North Dakota’s four seasons create very different experiences on the Maah Daah Hey Trail. Late spring and early summer are best, with mild weather and fewer bugs.
Summer can be hot, but nights usually cool down fast, so pack layers. Winter brings snow—sometimes over 50 inches—making travel difficult but breathtaking. The trail becomes quiet and still, covered in white beauty. Spring and fall can be unpredictable, so prepare for sudden changes in temperature or weather.

Camping and Gear Essentials on the Maah Daah Hey Trail

Camping is one of the best ways to experience the Maah Daah Hey Trail. Outside of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, dispersed camping is allowed for a true backcountry feel. Inside the park, you’ll need a permit to camp overnight. There are also developed campgrounds for those who prefer amenities.

The landscape offers little shade, so be ready for full exposure. Pack sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and plenty of water. A water filter is essential for longer trips. Trekking poles help on rocky terrain, and a lightweight puffy jacket keeps you warm at night.

Be aware of wildlife and insects. Rattlesnakes, ticks, and mosquitoes live here, so bring bug spray and wear long socks. Before your trip, make sure you’re ready for North Dakota’s changing weather. Check out our guide on Hiking Gear That Can Save Your Life for smart packing tips.

Logistics & Access

The Maah Daah Hey offers multiple access points and trailheads, making it flexible for shorter outings or long haul trips. For example, official maps list trailheads at the CCC Campground (north end) and Burning Coal Vein Campground (south end). Shuttle services are also available from nearby towns such as Medora, which is useful for one-way thru-hikers or cyclists. Because the trail is point-to-point, plan your transport accordingly. Also check the recent trail condition alerts on the official association site.

Water & Camp-Spacing Realities

One of the most critical logistical issues on the Maah Daah Hey is water. While nine or more developed campgrounds along the route have hand-pumped potable water (seasonal), outside of those you must treat wild sources or cache ahead. The trail’s official map lists eight designated water-cache box sites for thru-hikers. Because segments between reliable water and camps can stretch 18–25 miles, you’ll need to carry extra water, especially in hot/dry conditions. Also, note that some traditional water sources (springs, tanks) may be unreliable or non-potable.

Terrain and Difficulty Near Theodore Roosevelt National Park Badlands

The terrain on the Maah Daah Hey is wildly variable: you’ll find steep climbs and descents across bentonite clay soil, rolling prairie tops, canyon rims, and badland terrain adjacent to the Theodore Roosevelt National Park units. While many sections are rideable for experienced mountain bikers (trail is IMBA “Epic” rated) North Dakota Tourism hikers still should expect strenuous segments, and dynamic weather: high heat in summer, significant snow in winter, frequent exposure to wind and sun. For best conditions aim for late spring/early summer or early fall—these seasons provide milder weather and fewer bugs.

Mountain Biking the Maah Daah Hey Trail

Start at trailheads like the Buffalo Gap Campground (south end) or the CCC Campground (north end). These give easy vehicle access into the system. The nearby access roads are mostly gravel and suitable for standard vehicles — but high clearance helps.

Some of the most popular mountain-bike friendly sections include:

• The stretch from Buffalo Gap to Wannagan, which rides open and rolling through prairie and badlands terrain.
• The section from Elkhorn to Magpie, which features the scenic river crossing of the Little Missouri River and views from Devil’s Pass.
• The northern segment near the China Wall and Bennett Campground. This section is rugged, remote and highly scenic for experienced riders.

Important note: Bicycles are not allowed inside the boundaries of Theodore Roosevelt National Park along the trail, so make sure to use the alternative detours around the park units when biking.

Let me know if you’d like a detailed map of the key bike sections with parking coordinates for your ride.

Why the Maah Daah Hey Trail Is Worth the Journey

The Maah Daah Hey Trail is more than a physical challenge—it’s a journey through time and wilderness. Its landscapes inspired the spirit of the Old West and the vision of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Standing among the colorful buttes and endless skies, you feel history come alive.

From glowing sunsets to friendly faces in Medora, every mile tells a story.
Whether you hike, bike, or backpack, the Maah Daah Hey Trail offers adventure, solitude, and wonder.

Learn more about the Maah Daah Hey Trail and North Dakota

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The Eno River’s Eagle Trail winds through lush North Carolina scenery, alternating between dense woodlands and open areas where you can take a minute to play around in the creek, if you feel so inclined.

Testing the Mystery Ranch Rip Ruck 24L Hiking Backpack

On this particular adventure, the pack of choice was the Mystery Ranch Rip Ruck 24L. One thing I like about MR is the build quality of their bags. Everything they make stands out as EXTREMELY rugged and resilient. Mystery Ranch started by creating packs for military use, and that durability still shows in their hiking line today.

The Rip Ruck features a unique “rip-open” front panel for quick access, ideal for grabbing gear on the go. Inside, it has a laptop sleeve, pencil pockets, and dual front compartments that open just as easily. For day hikers and photographers, these compartments work perfectly for camera lenses or small essentials.

The straps are thick and memory-foam padded, giving it that “turtle shell” look that stays put while moving. There are only a couple drawbacks with this one – being that there's no water bottle pocket—but tossing one inside works just fine. The other is that this pack may be overbuilt based on your individual needs. The extra weight doesn't bother me – and the backpack is still very comfortable. It’s versatile enough to take from the woods, to the office, and even to the gym, which makes it one of the best hiking backpacks for everyday use too. I use this one for pretty much everything.

Finding Joy in Local Adventures

The day wrapped up with a solid sighting of a great blue heron, a perfect moment that reminded us why we hike in the first place. I'm always trying to get good shots of these things.

You don’t always need epic mountaintop views or faraway destinations to reconnect with nature. Sometimes, the best adventures are close to home.

So next time you see an ordinary trail near your town, grab your hiking backpack, pack the essentials (read about my top must-haves for any hike), and head out. Whether it’s a quick afternoon escape or a full-day hike, you’ll find that being out there—anywhere—is what really matters.

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Adventures Don’t Always Go as Planned

Take the Faroe Islands, for example. The scenery was jaw-dropping, sheer cliffs plunging into the North Atlantic, winding ridgelines, and trails that seemed to disappear into the clouds. But those same stunning landscapes can also be treacherous. High winds, slick rocks, and remote locations mean that a simple misstep could turn into a serious situation.

In Costa Rica, the challenge was different. Between rainforest hikes, river crossings, and waterfall rappels, we were constantly surrounded by wild, unpredictable terrain. A slip on wet ground or a sudden illness far from medical facilities can escalate quickly.

Even in North Dakota, where I was hiking across open prairie, the remoteness surprised me. It doesn’t take a mountain range to feel isolated, when you’re miles from the nearest road with unpredictable weather rolling in, you realize how vulnerable you can be. When I was hiking on sections of the Maah Daah Hey Trail, I noticed that certain times of year the trail may be impassible due to snow, ice, high water and mud.

Why Group Travel Insurance Matters

No matter how prepared you are, travel involves risk. Group Travel Insurance provides financial protection and peace of mind if something goes wrong. It can cover things like:

• Emergency medical evacuation from remote areas
• Hospitalization and medical expenses abroad
• Accidental death or dismemberment benefits
• Transportation back home for further care
• Support for family members if needed

For adventurers like me, this isn’t just about being cautious, it’s about being responsible. Whether I’m filming for Epic Trails or exploring off-camera, I want to focus on the experience, not worry about “what ifs.”

Emergency Evacuation Insurance: A Key Layer of Protection

A solid Travel Accident Insurance plan often works hand-in-hand with Emergency Evacuation Insurance. If you’re injured somewhere far from adequate medical care, evacuation coverage is what gets you to the hospital, whether that means helicopter rescue, specialized ground transport, or even a medical flight home. Be sure to look for Emergency Evacuation Insurance if you a looking to purchase Group Travel Insurance to remote areas.

Redpoint Travel Protection is a sponsor of BackpackingTV. And we couldn't be happier about it because whether we're exploring the backcountry or traveling the world, reliable insurance is a must. 

Redpoint offers three tiers of coverage, but our audience will want to take a good look at the Ripcord package. It applies to “remote destinations with limited communications or medical facilities.” In other words, backpacking adventure

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Comfort is Paying for What You Don’t Feel

I'm a big fan of movies and all the behind-the-scenes stuff that goes into making them. There's a popular saying in the world of sound design that goes; “you don't notice good sound design, only bad sound design.” I've found that the same is true in backpacking. the more expensive your backpack, the more invisible it becomes. That’s what you’re really paying for. With cheap backpacks vs expensive backpacks, the difference isn’t how many zippers or compartments you get — it’s how much (or how little) you notice the pack when you’re hiking.

My old $15 Temu pack? I remember exactly how it felt digging into my hips and making my back a sweaty mess. My current Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60L is so comfortable I barely notice it’s there, and that’s the point. The same can be said for my Mystery Ranch. You’re paying for comfort and design that lets you focus on your surroundings, not your shoulder pain.

This ISN'T to say that you positively need the expensive stuff. If you are fine with your current setup, I say let it ride.

You Don’t Need to “Level Up” to Be Legit

One of the biggest myths about cheap backpacks vs expensive backpacks is that expensive automatically means “better hiker.” That’s just not true.

I know people with serious money who still hike with the same old pack they’ve had for years, because it works for them. And I’ve met adventurers saving every penny to buy their dream pack, and that’s valid too. What matters most is your comfort, your priorities, and your experience on the trail.

My Take on the Whole Cheap vs. Expensive Backpack Debate

At the end of the day, expensive gear exists to give you options — not to rank you in some imaginary outdoor hierarchy. If you can afford the upgrade and want to feel that “invisible” comfort, go for it. If you’re rocking a cheap backpack that gets the job done, that’s great too.

So whether you’re saving up for your dream pack or sticking with the one that’s seen a hundred miles already, just remember: it’s not about the price tag — it’s about getting outside and enjoying the adventure.

Read some of my recent backpack reviews of the Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60L and the Loris 25L.

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Catch all the Arkansa trails from the beginning—read Exploring the Ozarks of Arkansas.

Starting in Jasper, Arkansas: Food and Views

The adventure began in Jasper, a small town with a big personality. At the Ozark Café, I tackled the infamous Excalibur Burger. They take two patties stacked with all the fixings and sandwich them between grilled cheese buns. It was equal parts delicious and overwhelming, the kind of fuel you need before hitting the trails.

Just minutes outside of Jasper lies Round Top Mountain. This easy trail is perfect for families and rewards hikers with panoramic views of the town and the surrounding Ozarks. Not every Arkansas hiking experience has to be extreme—sometimes a short hike with a stunning overlook is exactly what you need.

Horseshoe Canyon Ranch: Climbing, Ziplines, and Adventure

For a more adrenaline-filled outing, Horseshoe Canyon Ranch is the place to be. Known as an outdoor adventure hub in the Ozarks, it offers rock climbing, via ferrata routes, mountain biking, and one of the tallest and fastest ziplines in Arkansas.

The Via Ferrata at Horseshoe Canyon Ranch (a guided climbing route using cables and rungs) was a highlight. Safe yet exhilarating, it’s a great way to experience vertical terrain without needing advanced climbing skills. Crossing suspended bridges and scaling the rock face, I felt the perfect mix of challenge and excitement. The finale—flying through the fall canopy on a zipline—was an unforgettable Arkansas hiking and adventure experience.

Rock Climbing in the Arkansas Ozark Mountains

The North 40 section of Horseshoe Canyon Ranch is home to some of the state’s most iconic climbing routes, with over 500 established climbs. Climbing here felt like solving a puzzle, each move a combination of strength, focus, and balance. For anyone looking to expand their Arkansas hiking trip into new activities, climbing in the Ozarks is both accessible and rewarding.

Fly Fishing on the White River in Arkansas

To balance out the action, I spent a day fly fishing on the White River, one of the premier angling destinations in the U.S. With a patient guide, I learned the rhythm of casting, the thrill of hooking a trout, and the joy of catching a fish that would later be prepared fresh at Gaston’s White River Resort. The calm waters and quiet beauty made this a peaceful counterpoint to the high-energy hiking and climbing of the Ozarks.

Why Arkansas Feels Like a Hiking Playground

What struck me most about this trip is how diverse Arkansas hiking and outdoor activities can be. In one week, I experienced everything from casual family trails to technical climbs, ziplines, and fishing. Locals describe the Ozarks as a playground, and after hiking, climbing, and fishing my way through Jasper and beyond, I couldn’t agree more.

Arkansas hiking isn’t just about the trails—it’s about the variety of experiences that make every day an adventure. If you’re looking for a destination where you can eat well, hike through stunning scenery, and try something new, the Ozarks are waiting.

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We hiked sections of the West Highland Way. We explored castles, navigated winding single-track roads, and soaked in the vast expanse of the Highlands. It was everything we’d hoped for… and a few things we didn’t expect.

Those unexpected moments are exactly why I never travel without family travel insurance. For me, the choice is Redpoint Travel Protection. I’ve learned that good travel insurance isn’t just a safety net—it’s peace of mind.

Traveling with Family Adds New Considerations

When I travel solo, I accept a certain amount of risk. I’ve been caught in storms, missed connections, and dealt with the occasional injury in the backcountry. But when you’re traveling with a parent, or kids, for that matter, things can be a little different because it isn't all about you anymore.

Being miles away from cities and towns further complicates the already complicated process of getting medical attention in a foreign country. Honestly, it's complicated enough in my own country of the USA but I digress.

Having that peace of mind goes a long way in making sure that potential problems and logistics are better covered, which is why travel insurance can be so nice.

That’s where family travel insurance makes all the difference. With Redpoint Travel Protection, I know that emergency medical evacuation and support are covered, no matter how far off the beaten path we are.

Delays and Cancellations Happen

Anyone who’s traveled internationally knows that getting there is half the adventure—and sometimes, half the headache. Delays happen, flights can be easily missed, and all sorts of shenanigans can result from the snowballing effect of everyday inconveniences.

Having family travel insurance can help take the sting out of that situation. Redpoint Travel Protection can cover the unexpected costs of rebooking transportation and accommodations. So, instead of stressing over the logistics, you can grab a pint and laugh it off. And believe me, there are quite a few pints to be found in Scotland.

Travel disruptions are a fact of life, but they don’t have to derail your trip—or your budget.

Covering Gear and Personal Items

As a filmmaker and outdoor enthusiast, I travel with a lot of gear. I bring cameras, hiking equipment, and occasionally some specialized backcountry kits. Losing any of that would be more than an inconvenience.

Family travel insurance with gear protection means that if luggage goes missing or equipment gets damaged, I’m not left footing the entire bill. Thankfully, on this Scotland trip, everything arrived as planned. It’s nice knowing that if it hadn’t, Redpoint had my back.

The Real Benefit: Peace of Mind

One of the best parts of traveling with family is being able to relax and focus on the experience. For me, that means taking responsibility for making sure we’re covered if something goes sideways.

With Redpoint Travel Protection, I don’t just get coverage—I get comprehensive family travel insurance support. Their team specializes in adventure travel, so they understand the kind of trips I take. Whether it’s a backcountry hike in the Cairngorms or navigating travel delays in Glasgow, I know help is just a phone call away.

Family Travel Insurance Worth It?

Family adventures are some of the most meaningful trips you’ll ever take. They can bring you closer together, create memories that last a lifetime, and remind you why travel is worth every bit of effort. But they also come with unique responsibilities.

Family travel insurance isn’t just a checkbox on a booking form, it’s an essential part of traveling smart. Whether you’re hiking in Scotland with your dad, road-tripping across the States, or heading overseas with your kids, make sure you’re protected.

For me, that’s why I trust Redpoint Travel Protection. Because when I’m out there on the trail with family, I want to focus on the journey—not on what might go wrong.

Redpoint Travel Protection is a sponsor of BackpackingTV. And we couldn't be happier about it because whether we're exploring the backcountry or traveling the world, reliable insurance is a must. 

Redpoint offers three tiers of coverage, but our audience will want to take a good look at the Ripcord package. It applies to “remote destinations with limited communications or medical facilities.” In other words, backpacking adventure.

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Hiking Gear Must-Have: Satellite Communicator or Locator Beacon

One of the most crucial pieces of hiking gear is a satellite communicator or personal locator beacon (PLB). In areas with no cell service, these devices connect you to satellites so you can send out messages, or in emergencies, activate an SOS alert. Mike highlighted the Zoleo satellite communicator, which pairs with your phone to let you stay connected even in the most remote backcountry.

While a PLB is more limited, functioning only as an SOS signal and it doesn’t require ongoing subscription fees. A communicator like Zoleo, on the other hand, may cost about $20 per month for a basic plan. Both options provide peace of mind, and either can be a literal lifesaver when venturing far from civilization.

Gear Essential: Portable Water Filter

Even if you think you’ve packed enough water, things can change quickly in the wilderness. That’s why a portable water filter is one of the smartest additions to your hiking gear. Unlike larger filtration systems that can be bulky, compact filters, like the Platypus model Mike recommends, are lightweight, simple to use, and small enough to forget they’re even in your bag.

In an emergency, you can scoop up water from a creek or river, attach the filter, and safely drink. For an item that takes up so little space, it offers huge benefits in terms of safety and peace of mind.

Reliable Headlamp: Hiking Gear You Shouldn’t Skip

The third must-have item is a dependable headlamp. While rechargeable models are environmentally friendly, they can leave you stranded if you forget to recharge before a trip. That’s why Mike suggests carrying a hybrid headlamp that works with both rechargeable packs and replaceable AAA batteries.

Being able to swap batteries on the trail ensures you’re never stuck in the dark. A reliable light source should live in your pack at all times, even for short day hikes—you never know when plans will change or emergencies will arise.

Safety Starts in Your Pack

Every outdoor adventure comes with unknowns, but carrying the right hiking gear can make all the difference. A satellite communicator or PLB, a portable water filter, and a hybrid headlamp are three compact, lightweight, and potentially life-saving tools worth keeping in your pack year-round.

As Mike emphasizes, it’s not about the length or difficulty of your hike, things happen. Having the right gear ensures you’re ready when they do.

To ensure you’ve got all the essentials and room to carry them, check out this quick guide on choosing the right backpack size for your adventures.

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Your Pack Should Hold All Your Gear

For a one-night trip in the woods, most backpackers bring the essentials: a tent, sleeping bag, pad, clothing, food, stove, water filter, toiletries, and maybe some extras like a camp stool or a book. A good hiking backpack should handle this load without straining seams or leaving gear dangling off the outside. But as you’ll see, size really matters.

Testing Small Backpacks: 25L and 32L

A 25L hiking backpack, like the Loris 25, is better suited for day hikes than overnights. While you might squeeze in a few essentials, tents and sleeping bags will likely hang off the outside. A 32L pack adds some space but you'll still find that you are running pretty low on storage space. If you’re planning a night out, these smaller packs can feel cramped and impractical.

Getting there: 36L to 47L

At 36L, things start to feel manageable. Everything fits inside, though just barely. Moving up to a 47L hiking backpack gives you breathing room, better organization, and comfort. This size works well for one- to two-night trips and strikes a balance between compactness and capacity, though for me it's still a little on the small side.

Kumo 36 Gossamer Gear

Spacious Options: 60L Hiking Backpacks

For those who like comfort, flexibility, or heavier gear, a 60L hiking backpack shines. You won’t have to stress about cramming items in, and you’ll have extra space for things like camera gear or luxury items. This size easily works for multi-day trips while still being manageable for a single overnight. It’s a favorite for backpackers who want a stress-free packing experience. This is my personal recommendation. You will likely have extra room, but extra room means extra gear, which is always good.

Going Big: 70L and Beyond

A 70L hiking backpack provides maximum room, often used on multi-day expeditions or when carrying group gear. While it’s more than you need for a single night, it’s incredibly versatile if you expect to haul extra comforts. Just remember—more space often means more weight, so only go this big if you’ll truly use the capacity.

Choosing a Hiking Backpack For You!

The best pack depends on your gear, comfort level, and trip length. For most one- to two-night adventures, a 47L–60L pack is the sweet spot, giving you enough room without unnecessary bulk. If you’re just starting out, lean toward a little extra space—you’ll thank yourself when packing feels effortless.

Check out my reviews of Gossamer Gear's Loris 25 and Mariposa 60L backpacks.

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I’ll be the first to admit, I’ve been guilty of neglecting trekking poles in the past. But there’s one hike that really changed my perspective: Cape Enniberg in the Faroe Islands. It’s the tallest sea cliff in the world, and when we were filming an episode of Epic Trails there, I quickly realized how much I wished I had brought my trekking poles.

The trail is insanely steep—basically a goat path clinging to the side of a cliff. Going up was tough but manageable. Coming down? That was a whole different story. Every step felt like I was about to bomb straight off the mountain. That experience drove home the value of trekking poles in a way that no gear review or gear shop ever could.

Why Trekking Poles Matter

Trekking poles add stability on tricky terrain, reduce strain on your knees during descents, and help distribute weight more evenly when you’re carrying a heavy pack. They can also make long climbs more efficient by engaging your upper body. And honestly, they can save you from embarrassing (or painful) slips and falls.

But here’s the thing—trekking poles come in a huge range of prices. You can find a set for $20, or you can drop more than $200. So, what’s the difference?

Budget vs. High-End Poles

• Budget Poles ($20–$50): Usually heavier, sometimes less durable. Great for casual day hikes or if you just want a little extra stability on rocky trails.
• Mid-Range Poles ($75–$120): The sweet spot for most hikers. You’ll get durability, reliability, and decent weight without breaking the bank.
• High-End Poles ($150+): Ultralight, compact, and designed for weight-conscious backpackers. If you’re counting every ounce for a thru-hike or multi-day adventure, these might be worth it. Check out these three piece carbon trekking poles by Gossamer Gear.

Just remember—expensive doesn’t always mean better for you. If you’re heading out for a casual afternoon hike, you probably don’t need to spend top dollar. But if you’re hauling a pack for days on end, shaving off weight can make a big difference.

Trekking Poles for Hiking and Backpacking

I’m no trekking pole expert, and I don’t even use them as much as I probably should. But my general rule for outdoor gear applies here: aim for the middle ground. Avoid the cheapest poles that might break right when you need them most, and don’t overspend on ultralight features you won’t really benefit from.

At the end of the day, trekking poles are one of those pieces of gear that you might not think you need—until you’re on a steep, sketchy trail wishing you had them. They can make your hikes safer, easier, and more enjoyable.

So, do you use trekking poles? Did you go budget, mid-range, or all-in on ultralight? I’d love to hear what works for you. Drop a comment, share your experiences, and let me know what gear topics you’d like me to cover next.

Read my review of the ZenBivy.

The post Trekking Poles for Hiking: Why They’re Worth Carrying appeared first on Hazeadventure.

But what made this journey truly special wasn’t just the scenery—it was getting to share the experience with my dad. When it comes to spending quality one on one time with someone, nothing beats the days worth of chit-chat you get from an extended hiking trip like this one.

Hitting the Trail

Our hike began with the help of Macs Adventure, a company that organizes self-guided hiking trips. They arranged lodging, mapped our route, and even transferred our luggage each day. It allowed us to focus on the trail and enjoy the moments without worrying too much about logistics.

The first stretch took us past rolling farmland, where sheep grazed among old stone walls. Then came our climb up iconic Conic Hill and our first sweeping view of Loch Lomond. With its sandy beaches and mountain backdrop, Loch Lomond is one of the most beautiful lakes I’ve ever seen.

We couldn’t resist stopping to soak it all in—the stillness, the wind in the trees, and the sheer scale of the water.

Scotland’s Character

Along the trail, reminders of Scotland’s culture and history were everywhere. There's a level of friendliness and wit that you find on Scotland's people that seem rare in most parts of the world. Almost everyone we met had us laughing.

Food was part of the adventure, too. After a ferry crossing across the loch, we tried haggis for the first time at Drovers Inn. I’ll admit I was nervous, but it turned out to be delicious—rich, hearty, and the perfect post-hike meal when paired with a pint. Nothing at all like I expecting. I ended up ordering it every chance I got. Make sure to get yours paired with neeps and tatties (swedes and mashed potatoes for us uninformed).

Into the Highlands

Further north, the landscape grew wilder as we entered Glencoe. Here, the mountains rise steeply from the valley floor, streaked with lingering snow even in warm weather. Hiking there felt cinematic—every step pulling us deeper into Scotland’s history and legend.

That night we stayed at the KingsHouse Hotel, a famous stop along the West Highland Way. The highlight was a whisky tasting, where we finally learned the difference between Scotch and the whiskey I’d grown up with. Whiskey is an art form here, and is widely known as the best in the world… for good reason.

The night ended with live Scottish music filling the pub. The music, the food, the whiskey, and the view of incredible Glen Coe made for an unforgettable night.

A Trail That Stays With You

The West Highland Way is more than a long-distance hike. It’s a journey through breathtaking scenery, rich history, and a welcoming culture. For me, it was also about family—slowing down, walking side by side, and sharing experiences we’ll always carry with us.

If you’re searching for an adventure that blends rugged landscapes with unforgettable moments, the West Highland Way belongs at the very top of your list.

Special Thanks

Be sure to check out Macs Adventure website for more information on their self-guided hiking tours in the UK, Europe, Japan, and New Zealand.

Kingshouse Hotel

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park and Balmaha Visitor Centre

West Highland Way Association

The Drovers Inn

Glen Urquart Castle

The Last Drop

Redpoint Travel Protection is a sponsor of BackpackingTV. And we couldn't be happier about it because whether we're exploring the backcountry or traveling the world, reliable insurance is a must. 

Redpoint offers three tiers of coverage, but our audience will want to take a good look at the Ripcord package. It applies to “remote destinations with limited communications or medical facilities.” In other words, backpacking adventures!

The post West Highland Way: Hiking Trail in Scotland appeared first on Hazeadventure.