Ben Lomond Scotland Guide
Located within the southern Highlands of Scotland, Ben Lomond is without doubt one of the most iconic and well-liked peaks within the nation. With its towering summit at 3,196 ft (974 meters), this majestic mountain presents breathtaking views of the encircling lochs and glens. Whether or not you’re an skilled hiker or a nature fanatic, exploring Ben Lomond is an unforgettable journey that should not be missed. On this Ptarmigan Ridge Information, we’ll delve into the historical past, trails, and highlights of this exceptional Scottish gem.
In the event you’re in search of a mountain climbing journey in Scotland, then look no additional than strolling Ben Lomond, an simply achievable Munro (a hill over 3000 ft or 941m).
Standing at 974m, Ben Lomond is in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs Nationwide Park and is probably the most southerly of the Munros and presents gorgeous views over Loch Lomond and the encircling areas.
Ben Lomond was my first munro hike (of what I’m certain shall be many). We determined to hike Ben Lomond through Ptarmigan Ridge on a fantastic sunny day in February. The hike was difficult, however not too tough with no publicity of scrambling and so it’s the proper introduction to Munro bagging.
One of many issues that makes Ben Lomond such an excellent stroll within the Trossachs is that it’s surrounded by lovely surroundings. You actually get a really feel for the mountains of the Trossachs and the Highlands from the summit. It’ll truthfully in all probability shock you simply how mountainous Scotland may be!
In the event you’re planning a go to to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs Nationwide Park this 12 months and in search of some mountain climbing guides, then try this mountain climbing information to Ben Lomond.
This information takes the path up Ptarmigan Ridge which is often quieter and a bit tougher than the Ben Lomond Mountain Path or ‘Vacationer’ Route.
In search of an excellent simple hike in Scotland? Take a look at this Ben A’an mountain climbing information within the Trossachs!
The best way to get to Ben Lomond trailhead
Relating to learn how to get to Ben Lomond, attending to the trailhead for Ben Lomond is comparatively simple and is commonly carried out as a day journey from Glasgow.
The journey from Glasgow to the Ben Lomond parking zone is lower than 1 hour’s drive and also you’ll go previous some lovely surroundings on the way in which as you drive up the japanese shores of Loch Lomond.
I began this hike from the Rowardennan automobile park which is on the far finish of a protracted street and about so far as you’ll be able to go by automobile on the japanese facet of Loch Lomond.
Alongside the way in which there are a few pubs, some campsites and exquisite views.
This automobile park can get very busy in the summertime and even in February it was nearly full by the point we arrived.
Parking prices £5 for the complete day and it’s a good suggestion to have the RingGo app in your telephone so you’ll be able to pay for parking, or keep in mind to have change in your automobile.
Take a look at my information to mountain climbing Ben Nevis close to Fort William
What to know earlier than strolling Ben Lomond
Along with checking the Ben Lomond climate, it’s essential to at all times abide by the next:
- At all times apply go away no hint ethics and pack out something you’re taking with you.
- Stick with pre-existing trails to keep away from eroding the panorama
- At all times pack layers and waterproofs – that is Scotland in any case!
- Inform somebody the place you’re going and whenever you anticipate to be again.
- Ensure you stroll together with your 10 necessities.
OS Maps are superior for mountain climbing within the UK. I’ve by no means discovered something fairly like them when in different nations. They’ve all options like church buildings, rivers, peaks, viewpoints and extra. You will get paper maps (that are nice for locating new locations), and their app is tremendous helpful too.
Strolling the Ben Lomond through Ptarmigan Ridge path
From the Rowardennan automobile park, head to the other finish to the way in which you drove in, in the direction of the Youth Hostel. There shall be signposts and a transparent path going by way of the wooden.
After round 1km on this path, observe the signal and take a path in your proper that begins to go up hill.
Quickly, you’ll come out of the timber and get your first views of the path forward of you in addition to Loch Lomond behind you.
On the day I hiked Ben Lomond with my associates, the solar was shining and I needed to rapidly shed my layers right down to only a t-shirt which was sudden for February!
The trail up Ptarmigan Ridge is a constant climb with solely the slightest aid about 4km in when the paths will get rather less steep (however not fairly flat), and makes a flip in the direction of hikers’ proper as you get nearer to the ridge and the summit of Ben Lomond.
Be at liberty to take breaks as and when you have to and benefit from the views!
The ultimate climb to the summit when strolling Ben Lomond is steep and a number of the path has steps that can assist you climb up it.
Carry on going as you’re nearly there!
As soon as on the summit of Ben Lomond, there’s a trig level (and often fairly a number of individuals).
Take you time to benefit from the spectacular views of the encircling space.
One among my favorite issues about mountain climbing in Scotland has rapidly turn out to be how simple it’s to identify different summits I’ve carried out. From up on Ben Lomond we may see over in the direction of The Whangie, and simple stroll close to Glasgow, Ben Ledi, Stuc a Chroin and extra.
For our descent, we determined to take the Mountain Path right down to make this right into a loop path. Plus, I don’t find out about you, however it’s typically simpler to hike up the steepest approach that to ty and hike down it!
The Ben Lomond vacationer route has wider paths although you continue to want to concentrate to your footing because it’s uneven in locations and also you don’t wish to roll your ankle!
Again on the automobile park, we took a break lochside after strolling Ben Lomond. And my buddy, who by no means misses a possibility to go for a swim, took a dip in Loch Lomond!
Stats for the Ben Lomond stroll
For you journey strolling Ben Lomond, listed below are some issues it’s best to know.
Ben Lomond hike through the Ptarmigan Route Round
- Distance: 12.1 km
- Elevation: 971 m
- Ben Lomond stroll time: 4-6 hours
- Issue: average – strenuous
Ben Lomond Mountain path out and again
- Distance: 12.4 km
- Elevation: 961 m
- Period: 4-6 hours
- Issue: average
**All stats are tough guides and shouldn’t be taken to the metre**
You can use this AllTrails route to follow the trail if you have AllTrails+.
What to pack for mountain climbing Ben Lomond within the Trossachs
What to pack for this hike relies on what season you’re mountain climbing in.
- Take a look at my day hike packing record right here.
- In the event you’re mountain climbing in summer season it’s best to pack sunscreen, sun shades, layers, water and bug spray in addition to every part within the 10 necessities for mountain climbing record.
- Right here is what to put on mountain climbing in scorching climate
- Take a look at this submit on the very best leggings for mountain climbing or what to put on mountain climbing in summer season for extra particulars and my gear suggestions.
- In the event you’re mountain climbing in winter after the snow has began falling you’ll want microspikes on the very least. If there’s lots of snow you’ll in all probability want snowshoes.
- You must also take loads of layers together with a fleece layer, a puffy insulated jacket and a wind and waterproof outer layer. Hats and gloves are additionally vital in addition to a good backpack to maintain every part in.
- You must also pack water and a few snacks too to maintain you going as they’re a part of the 10 necessities for mountain climbing!
- Planning a mountain climbing date? Take a look at what to put on on a mountain climbing date however nonetheless look cool.
Remaining ideas on strolling Ben Lomond Scotland
Mountain climbing Ben Lomond through the Ptarmigan Path is a difficult but worthwhile expertise.
You’ll get lovely views of Loch Lomond and the encircling hills within the Trossachs and past when strolling Ben Lomond.
The Ptarmigan Ridge path winds its approach up by way of the timber earlier than popping out to some gorgeous views for almost all of the path. The climbing uphill is relentless, however the views from the highest of Ben Lomond make all of it value it.
As soon as on the Ben Lomond summit, take a second to relaxation, get better, and benefit from the panoramic views earlier than returning through the vacationer route for a extra gradual descent.
It is a nice first munro for a lot of simply getting began on their munro bagging journies!
In search of extra Munros? Check out this information to the Stuc a Chroin stroll.
FAQs in regards to the Ben Lomond mountain climbing path
How lengthy does it take to hike Ben Lomond?
Mountain climbing Ben Lomond is a well-liked day journey from Glasgow and takes roughly 4-6 hours to finish, relying in your health degree and the route you’re taking.
How lengthy does it take to stroll up and down Ben Lomond?
Strolling up and down Ben Lomond through the vacationer route, or Ben Lomond monitor, usually takes round 4-5 hours, whereas mountain climbing the more difficult Ptarmigan Ridge route might take nearer to six hours.
Is Ben Lomond tougher than Snowdon?
Ben Lomond may be thought of a tough hike, particularly in case you take the Ptarmigan Ridge route, which is steep and relentless. Nonetheless, the vacationer route is extra gradual and may be thought of average. It’s vital to be ready with correct footwear, clothes, and loads of water, no matter which route you’re taking.
Is Ben Lomond a tough hike?
When it comes to problem, it’s tough to check Ben Lomond UK and Snowdon as they’re each difficult hikes in their very own proper. Snowdon is increased than Ben Lomond, however the paths are typically extra well-maintained and the hike could also be thought of simpler general.
Final Up to date on June 2, 2023 by Hannah
Hannah began That Adventurer after graduating again in 2013 and has documented all of her adventures since then. From backpacking South America to metropolis breaks in Europe, a 3 month street journey throughout the USA in a self-converted van and 6 years dwelling in Canada, you’ll discover posts on all of this.
Hannah specialises in lively journey and on That Adventurer you’ll discover mountain climbing, strolling, biking, snowboarding and all types of lively journey guides to mean you can see a vacation spot in an adventurous approach.
Now again in Europe, you’ll discover new guides as Hannah and her husband spend the following 12 months ‘digital nomading’ from Norway to Portugal, Switzerland to Scotland and locations in between.
Ben Lomond in Scotland, as described within the Ptarmigan Ridge Information, is a exceptional vacation spot providing breathtaking views and difficult hikes. The information highlights three essential conclusions: firstly, the mountain’s various routes cater to all health ranges, guaranteeing an inclusive expertise for adventurers of various skills. Secondly, the spectacular panorama of Loch Lomond and the encircling landscapes from the summit showcases the pure great thing about the world, making it a must-visit location for hikers and nature lovers alike. Lastly, the informative information gives worthwhile insights into the varied trails, guaranteeing guests can plan and navigate their journey with confidence and security.
