Hiking the Western Front Way

The Western Front Way is a captivating 1,000-kilometer hiking trail that retraces the historic First World War front lines. It promises a journey of profound human connections amidst breath-taking scenery.

From the mountainous ‘Man Eater’ peak in Alsace, the Vosges and Col de la Chapolette, the haunting trenches of the Argonne Forest, the glistening lakes of Pierre Percée and Madine, the heart of Champagne, Burgundian Arras, the Somme and Ypres to the Nieuwpoort beach. There is something for everyone.

If you're a passionate hiker, a history lover or seeking one of Europe's top hiking trails, the Western Front Way is sure to exceed your expectations.

WWI History

You will encounter a multitude of historic sites, monuments, and museums that tell the stories of World War I and the broader history of the regions.

During your adventure, you will;

Witness the close proximity of trenches in the Vosges mountains, Argonne Forests or Massiges, providing a firsthand glimpse into daily troop life.
Stumble on tree covered bunkers, military hospitals and the Grande Guerre villages.
Experience the collective nature of WWI as a conflict affecting all sides and generations.
Forge a deeper connection to humanity, bravery, courage, and post-war reflections from various perspectives.
Discover a fully immersive trail abundant with symbols, remembrance, and personal mementos left in the wake of this conflict.

Some notable checkpoints include;

Kilometre Zero
Chemin Des Dames
Hartmannswillerkopf
Memorial de la Linge
Butte de Montsec
Verdun
The Menin Gate
The Argonne Forest
Vimy Ridge
Notre-Dame-de-Lorette
Sir John Monash Centre
Thiepval Memorial

Whether you're an avid hiker, a weekend walker or looking for one of Europe’s greatest hiking trails, the Western Front Way won’t disappoint.

The Western Front Way is the ultimate bucket-list adventure for trail lovers.

Who Inspired the Western Front Way?

The Western Front Way was inspired by A.D. Gillespie, a soldier in the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, who wrote a letter in 1915 from the trenches about a desire for a path to be traversed to understand the cost of war. The Western Front Way is a dynamic tribute to those who fought for all sides. He was killed shortly after writing this letter in 1915 and is named at Dud Corner Cemetery in Loos-en-Gohelle.

‘When peace comes, our government might combine with the French government, to make one long avenue between the lines from the Vosges to the sea….I would make a fine, broad road in the ‘No-Man’s Land’ between the lines with paths for pilgrims on foot and plant trees for shade and fruit trees, so the soil should not altogether be wasted. The I would like to send every man, woman and child in western Europe on a pilgrimage along that via sacra so they might think and learn what war means from the silent witnesses on either side”

What To Expect With The Waytrails App

A 1000km hiking trail that closely follows the historic WWI Front Lines.

The official Western Front trail specifically developed for walkers, providing an easily navigable path.

Divided into 11 stages, allowing flexibility to complete the trail all at once or in separate stages.

Detailed and informative content of how the topography of Swiss, French, and Flemish landscapes impacted the Entente, Central and Associated Powers.

Points of interest, museums, and activities directly along the trail.

Plan and book accommodation, amenities, transport, and restaurants, making your journey hassle-free.

Provides autonomy and decision-making regarding your budget and travel options, allowing you to tailor the experience to your preferences and needs.

Accommodation - Where to stay on the Western Front Way

Accommodation on this trail varies but are mostly good, comfortable hotels, BnB's, Chambres d'Hotes or campsites and are bookable on the Waytrails app.

Wild camping / bivouac is not prohibited but is tolerated and you must respect certain regulations – Le camping sauvage. Bivouacking is generally understood to mean a one-night stop, in respect to leaving no trace, and is implicitly authorised between the hours of 7 p.m and 9 a.m and is subject rules in coastal areas, listed natural sites and historic monuments. Making an open fire when wild camping in dry/and or wooded areas in France in summer is strictly forbidden. You must seek the owner’s permission if you camp on private land.

Difficulty and terrain

Experience a variety of terrains on the Western Front Way, including mountain passes in the Vosges and Lorraine regions, picturesque vineyards along the renowned Alsace wine route, battle scarred woodlands, and some of Europe’s most famous waterways. With an elevation of 1,424m (4,672ft) at its highest point, the trail offers thrilling challenges. The rest of the trail consists of gentle slopes and flat sections. Customise your journey by selecting stages and terrains that suit your schedule and ability.

A higher level of fitness is recommended.

The routes remain on official trail paths or on quiet roads where possible. The trail has been checked and verified by our teams. Waytrails (WFW LTd) is not liable for any local diversions or surface changes due to temporary road or forestry works.

When to visit the Western Front Way

This trail is suitable from beginning of April until end of September to take advantage of the weather and seasonal opening hours. In the summer we recommend advanced booking for hotels and restaurants.