Climb Ben Lomond

This practical guide, which we regularly update, contains all the helpful information you need to climb Ben Lomond. In addition, we answer all the likely questions you may have about Ben Lomond with links to other guides and websites, including our photo guide to the footpath.

How was your Ben Lomond experience?

Please comment at the bottom of the page. We'd love to know how your Ben Lomond walk was, especially if you have practical suggestions for other walkers based on your experiences.

How High is Ben Lomond?

A Munro is a mountain over 3,000 feet high. There are 282 Munros in Scotland, and Ben Lomond is the most southerly of them. Its height is 3,196 feet, 974 metres. See our guide to the highest peaks in the National Park.

How long is the path up Ben Lomond?

The path distance is 11km (7 miles).

How long does it take to climb Ben Lomond?

It takes between 4.5 and 6 hours to walk Ben Lomond. Running is anything from 90 minutes.

What is the Ben Lomond trail like? 

Many of our readers like it when we publish photographs of paths so they can see what to expect; while there are a few on this guide, we have recently added a new photo guide of the trail, plus we've also published a list of places of the best views of Ben Lomond.

 

Where is Ben Lomond?

Ben Lomond is on the east side of Loch Lomond at Rowardennan, which is at the end of an 11-mile dead-end road from the village of Drymen (there are no busses on that road beyond Balmaha.) Cruise Loch Lomond runs twice daily sailings by their water bus from Tarbet on the west side of Loch Lomond. Check their website for details of the Ben Lomond Rambler water bus. Rowardennan is on the route of the West Highland Way (more about that soon.)

Directions to Ben Lomond?

Some satnav systems appear to have a problem getting to Ben Lomond. We frequently meet drivers at Loch Chon in the Trossachs rather than Rowadennan, where the Ben Lomond Car Park is. You can see Ben Lomond from Loch Chon, but it's a long hike/journey to get there!

For road navigation, go first to Drymen, then follow the B839 from the village, passing Balmaha and the lochside, driving until the end of the road at Rowardennan. Note that the road is narrow in places. If you use a Satnav, enter Rowardennan rather than Ben Lomond.

Is there parking at Ben Lomond?

Forestry and Land Scotland has a car park for Ben Lomond at Rowardennan; this quickly fills. Also, if the car parks are full in Balmaha and Rowardennan, the police will close the road. So the best advice is to go early and don't park illegally. If you do, you could receive a ticket and, more seriously, prevent emergency vehicles from getting into Rowardennan, which has sadly happened in the past.

Forestry and Land Scotland have introduced a large overflow car on the right just before you reach Rowardennan. From the back of that car park, a pathway leads to Ben Lomond.

How much does it cost to park at Ben Lomond?

The car park costs £5 to park for the day. Note that it only takes coins. No cards or apps can currently be used, so ensure you have sufficient change. There is no charge (at present) for the overflow car park.

How many people climb Ben Lomond each year?

Around 50,000 people climb Ben Lomond annually, a figure that has increased in recent years.

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What is at Rowardennan?

Rowardennan is on the West Highland Way and has a Youth Hostel, Hotel, camping pitches, B&B, and glamping. We've blogged about the West Highland Way path from Balmaha to Rowardennan and Rowardennan to Inversnaid. See also our guide to Rowardennan.

Where to camp near Ben Lomond?

Our guide to camping along the Eastern shores of Loch Lomond is helpful as there are restrictions on where you can pitch your tent due to the camping bylaws. In that guide, we recommend a beautiful hidden spot to camp near Rowardennan that you can pre-book.

How difficult is it to climb Ben Lomond?

It's a strenuous but achievable climb. The path (as we will discuss in greater detail) is very good. However, as with any walk, you should take extra care after rainfall and cold conditions.  If you have reasonable fitness you will be fine, allow plenty of time and take it easy.

Can I cycle on Ben Lomond?

No rules prevent you from cycling on Ben Lomond; I’ve seen some attempt it and fall off, though, as it’s not the easiest. So, it's not recommended.

What should I take on my Ben Lomond climb?

Like any lengthy walk, be prepared and have plenty of water, food, and layers of clothing. On some days, the temperature can be highly variable at different points. Good walking boots are recommended, although we see many with trainers! Also, consider walking poles, which make climbing and the descent much more effortless.  

Wear sunscreen and smidge (midge repellent), and bring snacks/lunch. You could stock up at The Village Shop in Balmaha, next to the Oak Tree Inn (the last shop before Rowardennan.)

Is it worth climbing Ben Lomond?

Absolutely, it’s a wonderful climb, and as soon as you leave the forest you will enjoy excellent views of Loch Lomond and its islands.

Are there public toilets for Ben Lomond?

There are toilets in the car park at Rowardennan. If you use the overflow car park, you won't pass these.

When is the best time to climb Ben Lomond?

Views are even more dramatic at sunrise and sunset. On busy weekends, I suggest heading off around 9.30 a.m., when the car parks shouldn't be full. This avoids when the path gets busy and can be ideal for lunch at the summit.

Do note that Ben Lomond's summit can be covered in the cloud; it's happened to me a few times and is frustrating. So, choose a clear day to ensure good visibility at the top.

Can I walk my dog on Ben Lomond?

Yes, you can bring your dog. You will see signs requesting you keep your dog on a lead, as it can frighten animals grazing on the mountain. Please do follow these rules as, sadly, there have been issues in recent years.

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What is the route to climb Ben Lomond?

Our photo guide will show you the views along the path during the ascent; click here to see that guide. But, first, the route takes you through the forest, and then once that clears, you will start to get excellent elevated views of Loch Lomond and its islands. Note that there are different paths from each car park (main and overflow), but these converge.

There are some steep sections on this strenuous climb, but you can take your time, pause to catch your breath, and take some photographs. As you get higher, you will get some fantastic views of Loch Katrine and the Trossachs, plus Tarbet, Loch Sloy and the Arrochar Alps.

Ben Lomond Summit

You can even see Ben Nevis from the summit on a very clear day. It's excellent meeting fellow walkers, often from all over the world and enjoying the shared experience of the climb together.

Who owns Ben Lomond?

The National Trust for Scotland owns and manages Ben Lomond on the nation's behalf. The Ben Lomond rangers (together with volunteers) have done an excellent job on the pathway, which was previously struggling from the high footfall and people deviating from the main path.

Thanks for reading

Words and photography by Paul Saunders. Visit Paul’s Marketing and Photography websites for details of his services in Scotland.

How was your Ben Lomond climb?

Please leave comments to tell us about your Ben Lomond experience. We'd also love to read any additional tips you may have for people planning to climb Ben Lomond.