Vomiting Hikers Warn of Burn Water Risks on West Highland Way

Two separate incidents on the West Highland Way have highlighted the dangers of drinking untreated water from burns. In the past week, a German man and an American man became severely ill with vomiting after consuming water near Conic Hill, despite using portable filter systems. Lomond Mountain Rescue teams responded to both calls, with one walker requiring hospitalization. The affected area is agricultural land where livestock and human waste can contaminate watercourses. Rescue teams are now advising all visitors to drink only from safe sources like bottled water or Scottish Water fountains. Filtering alone may not be sufficient, and secondary treatments such as boiling or chemical purification are recommended if using natural water sources. The Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park authority also advises carrying treated water and boiling any water taken from natural sources. Similar warnings were issued last year after other walkers fell ill. Visitors are taking precautions, including carrying filters and purification tablets.