Thru-Hiking the West Highland Way with my Dog: Rowardennan to Tyndrum | The hardest bit?!

[@DonaldAndrews-p6l]

your dog otto living the best life thanks to you👋

[@ellihikes]

Aww, thank you!! I really try my best to give him the good life he deserves 🥰

[@margesgastricbypassjourneyuk]

It’s so nice to see Otto enjoying himself and so nice your partner Alex has joined you for some company 🥰🥰

[@Buszkraftowski]

Nice Video. The West Highland Way is such a stunning trail.

[@andrewmills509]

Great video Elli it looks they were some tricky bits during this trek. Otto is such a trooper he must be one fit dog with all the walking and fresh air he gets 😊

[@ellihikes]

Thank you so much for following, I really appreciate it 😊 Hahaha, yes - he's very fit 🥰

[@Ivor_Nastyboil]

It was interesting to see how much the West Highland Way has changed since I last walked it. There were no wild camping restrictions then.

[@cheekuenbird38]

You and Otto always cheer me up ❤ the world is so.....mad at the moment 😢so I am always waiting to see your video. Beautiful Scotland, We are going to Isle of Arran at the end of this month. I used to have a labrador. He was my baby for 15 happy memories. He goes everywhere with us , we love hiking too. Can't wait to see your next episode ❤

[@ellihikes]

That's very kind. Thank you so much for the lovely words and feedback :) I hope you're having a great time on Arran and have a bit of drier weather to enjoy the beautiful scenery :)

[@CapmanBe]

Ce n'est pas simple à gérer toute cette humidité. Courage à la petite famille ❤

[@alanbrown9178]

Enjoyable video, thanks Elli. It is a few years since I walked it right through. A number of times since where I have followed it in part, when walking other routes. Have you thought of walking the Southern Upland Way? It is across the Borders area from coast-to-coast and about 200 miles and much less walked that the WHW... more remote in some sections.

[@ervinslens]

Absolutely gorgeous work my friend, this episode is flawless! Love your way of filming!

[@ellihikes]

Thank you so much for the kind words 🤗

[@nickwinter991]

Another lovely video that really brings the trail to life, thank you Elli. You can smell the pine trees, feel the stones under your feet - and the squelchy mud! After seeing the WHW in your JoGLE videos and now these latest ones, I'm beginning to feel I know the WHW quite well, even though I've never done it! Pity that By The Way campsite was closed, which I do know well from many visits - I think it normally opens after Easter. I'm also well-acquainted with the Real Food Cafe (best cafe in Tyndrum) and had a meal with that view of the bird feeders many times!

[@ellihikes]

Thank you so much for the kind words and for following along :) Really happy that I can show what the trail is like and feels like - that's such a nice compliment and really makes my day as it is what I'm trying to achieve :) The window seats at the Real Food Cafe have a special place in my heart :) I love watching the birds and spent a lot of time there last year when staying for a week to heal my Plantar Fasciitis. I feel like I can't hike or drive through Tyndrum without getting a coffee there now 😅

[@lizwallace273]

That stretch along Loch Lomond is challenging! You did a great job showing the rocky steps and roots. It takes a lot of concentration to pick where to place your feet and avoid slipping. I'm glad you had beautiful weather for that section. It was a day just like that when we did it, and your video brought back such lovely memories.

[@ellihikes]

Thank you so much for the kind words! Really happy that you enjoyed the video :) true, I definitely wouldn't want to to that section in wet conditions. It's already a long way as is even if it's sunny...

[@mikePNW]

Glad you got some nice weather before the damn rain came back. Beautiful country!

[@ellihikes]

Thank you so much, it really is 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🥰

[@Curlew-Corner]

Gosh! The upper stretch of Loch Lomond doesn’t get any better. I remember exposed tree roots along much of the path which were very slippy but I don’t remember the erosion or scrambling to the extent today’s walkers experience. Otto is amazing, as are you of course. Look forward to the next episode. Take care.

[@ellihikes]

Thank you so much for the kind words :) yes, that so true, the rocks and roots are hard to navigate in wet conditions. Was very happy that it was dry that day 😊😊

[@THE-RIVER-RAT]

Hello Elli and Otto. Another great video with plenty of amazing views over Loch Lomond. So funny and cute to see Otto eating his bold eggs However, I wouldn't want to be in a tent with him afterward lol Looked like you were going to start to cry when you thought the coffee shop was closed. lol Looking forward to the next one Elli. 😜✌

[@ellihikes]

No problems with the eggs so far 😅😆 thank you so much for following along, really appreciate your comments, they always make me smile 😄

[@sheilajoseph9953]

Beautiful scenery along the walks. 💚

[@ellihikes]

It really is stunning 😊

[@mariatassoni3781]

I'm happy you, Otto and Alex had a sunny day on Day 3! It looks like the pack and the rest of your gear are faring well. I look forward to hearing your thoughts on all that at the end. In the meantime, I am looking forward to your next video! Take good care!

[@ellihikes]

Thank you so much, Maria 🤗😊 yes, definitely will do a review after a bit of testing. So far, after about 300mi, I'm very pleased with the pack though and it worked well 😊 thank you for following along :)

[@MrBarneymcgrew]

Great to see this latest adventure. I am ashamed to say that, despite visiting family near Drymen for 40 years, I have only done bits of the WHW (one day!) - so I'm looking forward to the rest of your journey. Quick question: when did you realise that Milngavie was pronounced Mull-guy and what happened in your brain? - I think mine imploded!

[@ellihikes]

What?! It's a beautiful hike, definitely worth checking out a few sections :) thank you for following along! I think I heard locals pronounce it that way (or a bus driver that corrected me the first time I said it wrong, can't remember exactly anymore) when I first hiked it 2 years ago. Definitely wouldn't have expected it to be pronounced that way 😅

[@Randolf4475]

Hallo Elli, waren wieder tolle Aufnahmen, vor allem Etappe 3 mit den Wasserfällen und den naturbelassenen Pfaden. Bleibt gesund und schöne gemeinsame Touren.

[@ellihikes]

Vielen lieben Dank für die netten Kommentare! Ich freu mich sehr, wenn dir die Videos gefallen 😊

[@Crazy-s8s]

It was good to see that did catch a partial break in the weather. You’re dedication to continuing on when the weather is beating you down is inspiring💪🏻 Can’t say I’d be able to continue trudging forward myself🤔 It’s good to see that you have a hiking buddy too, always worry about anyone hiking totally solo in desolate stretches now a days, steadily worsening here in the states as far as safety goes Otto is such a great trail companion, he’s so well behaved and keeps close, with all the new smells and sounds, quite impressive 😃 Thank you again for another wonderful video, always look forward to the next from y’all ❤️ Please give Otto a scratch, keep safe, take care and hike onward, see ya then Ms Elli 👍🏻🙏🏻😃☺️

[@ellihikes]

Thank you so much for the kind words and for following along :) it definitely was challenging sometimes, but I'm often too stubborn to give up easily (unless it's not safe of course. But if it's just about not being that comfortable, I tend to try to push through 😅🙈). As for safety: I actually always feel very safe, especially in Scotland as it's quite remote and people are so friendly and helpful. Never had any weird experiences whatsoever so far which makes me feel really at ease :)

[@Crazy-s8s]

You’re always very welcome Ms Elli ☺️ Your strength definitely shines thru, some days and situations you’ve experienced on trail has proven your your inner determination and strong will💪🏻 I’m so happy for the safer environment overseas, and I’m thankful it’s that way Sadly here in the U.S. it is much worse than the media and those in power truthfully tell Not safe hardly anywhere now a days anywhere Enough of that now As always I so enjoy your and Otto’s travels and look forward to every new offering Age, life’s miles and multiple health issues have pretty much benched me I know it sounds kinda weird I guess, but watching your videos takes me right along in spirit and that makes my day brighter😃❤️ Thank you so much again, take care, keep safe, give Otto a pat and see you next time👍🏻💪🏻😃❤️☺️

[@chrishiking8818]

Always nice to see your excitement and your smile in the morning when you start off in the morning Elli. So nice seeing Otto having a great time hiking along , truly an amazing little dog. Such a beautiful place to hike . Hope your shoes are doing well on those rocks and route. Always nice to have someone hiking with you too. Another great video Elli and Otto take all 🌷

[@ellihikes]

Thank you so much Chris for following along :) so far, the shoes worked out great, very happy with them 😊 Scotland really is incredibly beautiful :)

[@stephenvicary9243]

Hi Elli. The Scottish weather is really challenging you 🌧️ ☀️ 🌧️ and Otto. As an artist, I love the monochrome colours that Scotland has to offer. Browns, burnt Umbers, Ochres and the dark, brooding shadows of the forests then the wide open dramatic landscape. You have a good eye for camera shots. I know it’s part of the hike but it looks like a tough section of the trail ! Spring is dragging it’s wet feet this year. Stay dry and thank you for posting 👍🏻

[@ellihikes]

Thank you so much for the kind words - the weather was definitely a bit more challenging this time :) I have the same thoughts about the colors, I love the brownish colors of winter/early spring. Some may find it bleak, but I like it more, it just has a lot more moodiness 😊

[@janicemiddlemass5215]

Well done Ellie and Otto 👏yes that’s the hardest part done and you were lucky with the weather for it 😊, love reliving the walk with you thank you for sharing, hope all goes well in the next video, good luck your a right trooper 🤗👏.

[@ellihikes]

Aww, thank you so much Janice for the kind words and the encouragement. Really happy that you're enjoying the videos :)

[@blueporta]

We are currently in our (inner pitch first!) tiny tent at Beinglas watching your vid. The rain is absolutely biblical, just terrible! It's been torrential with hail storms and 40mph winds at times since we started the West Highland Way and apparently gonna be even worse tomorrow. Not much fun at times like this, you just have to embrace the suck! My waterproof jacket has completely failed and I was shaking like a leaf earlier lol. Mice have also burgled us at the same spot last night! Chewed three holes through the inner tent and one through my rucksack pocket taking all our snacks bah! Ah well, what can you do lol!

[@ellihikes]

Aaaargh, omg! That sounds horrible - thinking of you and keeping my fingers crossed for better weather. I didn't hike today, had a bit of a rest and was very happy about the timing with all the rain 😥 it just doesn't seem to get better 🫤 hang in there, you got this 🤗🤗

[@Miss_Lexisaurus]

I'm really enjoying watching you and Otto exploring. I'm starting to go on longer hikes with my two (we won't be doing camping as I often have to carry one of the dogs!).

[@ellihikes]

Thank you so much for following along, I really appreciate that :) hiking with dogs is such a great experience 🥰

[@reinhardwagner9125]

I'm going tomorrow, starting from tyndrum. want to stay 7-8 days in that area with my tent not following strict the WHW. I'm an older semester, you are very brave to go alone. I'm also a bit concerned regarding the weather, specially don't like the wind/rain, but that is part of the game in Scotland I guess. Thanks Elli for your impressions / experiences / work done for the video, great job!

[@ellihikes]

Thank you so much for the kind words! I hope you had an amazing time in the Highlands, but I suppose you've also had your share of rain 🫥 hope it wasn't too bad!!

[@Daytona2]

It looks lovely even when it's wet 😊 I didn't realise that the campsite at Inverarnan had so many facilities, so hopefully that made it a bit better, last year.

[@ellihikes]

It sure does 😅 the scenery definitely makes up for the harder moments 🥰😊 It's a really nice campsite. Well equipped for hikers with a kitchen/seating area + a shop and bar. Could have been worse last year, definitely 😊

[@greeno6064]

Amazing video Elli, you and your little dog so much fun. I am doing the WHW in 2 weeks time and this time in reverse from fort william to Milngavie im so exited. Your video was really well made and great to watch

[@ellihikes]

Thank you so much, I really appreciate the kind words! Wishing you a great hike with some dry weather :)

[@mikePNW]

Keep it up, you're doing great!!!

[@ellihikes]

Aww, that's very kind! Thank you so much 🤗🤗 I'm so grateful for the support :)

[@greeno6064]

Ellie, you are beautiful inside and out. Love you videos and love the fact that you are not a sunshine only hiker. In 4 days time i am off to do the WHW in reverse from fort william to Milngavie and the weather isnt looking great but... lets just do it

[@ellihikes]

Aww, that's very kind! Thank you so much, I'm glad that you're enjoying the videos 😊 I always try to keep it real 😊

[@obanmac]

Nice one Elli

[@RenateSchneider-d8w]

Schön- ich würde euch diesen blau/weißen Himmel gerne täglich wünschen, keine Kälte und immer wieder Sonne, die euch erwärmt. Und immer wieder hartgekochte Eier für Otto. Macht's gut.

[@elinaranes4357]

At least there’s no midgets😀 it must be so discouraging with the relentless rain,☔️ Still you manage to stay positive.☀️Hoping for better weather for you for the rest of your walk🤞🤞🤞 ❤️❤️for brave little Otto.

[@ellihikes]

Yesss, at least we didn't have to worry about them 😅😊👍 I try to stay positive but it was quite tough sometimes, needed to get into the routine again :)

[@RichardMathews-gv7lb]

Midgets? 😂 I think ‘persons of short stature’ would be more appropriate.

[@BrokenBackMountains]

Otto is a great companion. My wee dog is a smaller, red and female version of him. She is a Dachshund/Jack Russel cross.

[@ellihikes]

That's very likely Otto's mix too :) he's the best hiking partner 🥰 thank Ou for following along :)

[@greeno6064]

Loved your video, you are amazing and and so beautiful...you have inspired me to get going in 2 weeks time

[@ellihikes]

Thank you so much! Hope you're having a great time on the trail 😊🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@geoffbrompton822]

It looks great..How do you manage being a vegan in Germany..Just had a week there and not seen any vegetables (except mushrooms) Had a great time though..

[@ellihikes]

Yes, it's not that easy in Germany (unless you're in bigger cities where there are a lot of options). I don't eat out a lot when I'm at home and supermarkets have good options. But as soon as you want to eat out, there are often only very limited options - which is one reason (not the main one, but still) why I love hiking in the UK. It's so easy there 💚

[@margesgastricbypassjourneyuk]

It’s so nice to see Otto enjoying himself and so nice your partner Alex has joined you for some company 🥰🥰