Q&A with Abbie Barnes from Spend More Time in the WILD

Abbie Barnes is a presenter, filmmaker, and mountain leader who has been making films since the age of 13, winning awards hosted by Sir David Attenborough and speaking in the European Parliament, all before the age of 16.

The West Highland Way was Abbie’s first long-distance hike in 2012. They completed it a second time – this time solo – in 2018, and then again in 2022 wild camping all the way. Abbie created a documentary film of this third trip, telling their own story and also that of others met along the Way. The film is available on their successful YouTube channel Spend More Time In The WILD.  We also asked Abbie some questions about their WHW experience – and for some top tips!

Q: What first inspired you to walk the West Highland Way?

I have made a career out of long-distance hiking and it all began on  the West Highland Way. It was in 2012, when I was 16 years old, that I first set out onto the Way with my mum. It was our first multi-day hike and we stayed in B&Bs along the way. Somehow, despite the lack of tent, stove, and sleeping set up, we had the biggest backpacks I have ever carried and yet it was an experience that has inspired me to walk thousands of miles since.

Over the years following this adventure, mum and I set out to hike a new route each year, but by 2016 (aged 19) I was setting off on solo endeavours, having established a flourishing YouTube Channel called Spend More Time In The WILD.  My goal was simple; to document my hiking journeys and share my experiences in order to inspire and empower folks to get outside for the benefit of mental and physical health, just as I was. I took great care in filming my hikes and along the way vulnerably shared the challenges I faced, both physically and mentally, and documented my journey of growth.

In 2018 I returned to hike the WHW solo, this time staying on designated campsites. The route once again proved to be life affirming and I enjoyed putting my new-found love of camping to the test.

My most recent journey along the WHW was in Spring 2022. This time I wild camped the entire Way. Wild camping has long been a struggle for me due to mental barriers, however, I had been working hard to face my fears and get comfortable setting off without a solid plan and then pitching up when somewhere felt right. I returned to the WHW in order to put this evolving skill into practice and, whilst the trail threw a few curveballs in the mix, I met some incredible people from all over the world and created a film that has since inspired others to don their walking boots and live out their own WHW story.

Q: What stands out for you as the highlight of your WHW walk(s)?

The WHW has become a bit like an old friend. We might not keep in touch much but we know that, when we do reunite, it will be like old times. As with every trail I hike, each journey is totally unique, boasting its own array of memorable experiences and highs and lows. Perhaps one of the things I love the most about the WHW though is the ease of navigation. Whilst it is still important to have a map, compass, and GPS on our persons at all times, the route itself is extremely well signposted and the paths are often broad and easy to follow. What amazes me the most about these trails is the history they host. The WHW follows many ancient drover’s tracks, military roads and paths that feel like smugglers’ routes. There are abandoned croft houses, bothies and 18th century packhorse bridges. To be honest, the array of things to see along the way is endless, and there really is something for everyone.

And in the process of not having to focus as hard on navigation, the mind is freed to enjoy the vast and wild beauty that surrounds.

Q: What are the top 3 tips you would give someone considering walking the WHW?

1. Pack light – there are plenty of places to pick up food along the way!  Talking of packing, make sure to remember that what you pack in, you pack out. A.k.a., carry your litter (snack packets etc) to the nearest bin.  The same goes for loo roll – bring a spare bag and pack it out. Easy peasy 🙂 Just don’t forget it is in your pack!
2. Talk to people – the WHW is an internationally renowned trail, and for good reason. As such, walkers travel from all over the globe to soak up its magic. Talk to these people! Find out what has brought them to the trail and get curious to learn from more experienced hikers.
3. Take your time – as already mentioned, there is so much to see along the Way. From history to geology to amazing geographical landscapes.  There are lots of cafes too! Do your research and take your time.  Memories are made in moments of being present and aware, and for that we need to relax and soak up the experience. There are no medals for rushing.

Q: Were there any surprises/anything unexpected during your experience?

Not really 🙂

Q: What did you find the most challenging thing about the walk?

In 2018, I walked the WHW solo in mid-summer. I have one word to surmise my experience. Midges! It was a pretty brutal experience with the wee bugs inundating my skin and biting away at their leisure, much to my frustration! As such, I always enjoy visiting the region before or after the summer. April is by far my favourite month to be in Scotland as there is often lingering snow and the light that falls on the land is simply magical!

Q: What 3 items would you not be without on a walk such as the WHW?

1. My Katadyn BeFree Water Filter – a handy thing for travelling anywhere in the world
2. My Cucoon Air-Core Pillow Hyperlight Pillow – so snuggly!
3. Coffee! – enough said!

Q: Who was the most memorable character you met on the WHW?

I have met some wonderful people across my times on the WHW, but no one stands out in particular. I think what does remain though is the memory of joy and kindness that flows the length of the trail. I find that the Way is a bit like a linear, ever-moving village. We are all one community, sharing a passion for the outdoors and hiking, yet each on our own very personal journeys. I love hearing about what has brought people to the trail and what they hope to get out of the experience.

Sometimes reality is a little different from expectations, but the truth is that a story always unfolds and we grow through everything we experience, individually and together.

Q: What is your lasting memory or feeling when you think of the West Highland Way?

I always feel warm and fuzzy when it comes to reflecting on the WHW.

There are definitely no rose-tinted glasses here! Across my three times hiking the Way I have amassed some amazing experiences and memories I expect to last a lifetime. It might be a popular and somewhat busy trail compared to others, but to me, this adds to the charm.