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Lomond Mountain Rescue (MRT) has issued a cautionary warning following two recent incidents involving walkers falling ill after drinking water from natural streams along the West Highland Way. Within the span of a week, the rescue team responded to calls concerning hikers who suffered severe vomiting episodes after consuming burn water, despite using portable water filtration devices. The incidents have raised concerns about the safety of untreated water sources amid increased foot traffic on this popular long-distance trail.
In the first case, a German man near Rowchoish Bothy was found incapacitated and vomiting since the previous night, necessitating evacuation and hospital treatment at the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Paisley. A few days later, an American walker experienced similar symptoms north of Rowardennan by Loch Lomond, requiring assistance because he was unable to continue walking. Investigations suggest both individuals drank from a stream near Conic Hill, likely the Burn of Mar, an area noted for agricultural activity and livestock presence.
David Dodson, team leader of Lomond MRT, highlighted the risks posed by contamination in the area. He explained that despite the use of straw-type portable filter systems, which are designed to remove contaminants while drinking, both men became seriously ill. Dodson pointed out the problem is compounded by improper disposal of human waste along the trail, with visible signs found close to the main path and adjacent watercourses. This contamination, combined with livestock presence, creates a significant health hazard for hikers relying on untreated water sources.
In response, the mountain rescue team strongly advises walkers to consume only bottled water or use safe alternatives such as Scottish Water drinking fountains. They warn that filtering water from natural streams alone may be insufficient to guarantee safety without additional treatments like boiling or chemical purification. Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park also recommend carrying treated water throughout the hike. A park spokesperson emphasized that although Scotland’s natural waters appear clean, they may harbor invisible threats, stressing the importance of boiling water if collecting from these sources. Meanwhile, hikers on the trail, including groups from Germany and Sussex, are already taking precautions by carrying water treatment pills and filters, or by bringing all their water supplies with them to avoid illness
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More
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