Best Hiking Trails Near Ben Nevis, Britain's Highest Mtn

Beautiful and challenging hiking routes around the UK's highest mountain.

Hiking Moderate, Difficult, Extreme

Description

From day hikes to challenging circuit ridge walks, marathon routes and multi-day long-distance trails, there are plenty of hiking options around Ben Nevis. Meander through wild landscapes and deep forest plantations, climb to the clouds, circle highland lochs, and ramble over unspoilt marshlands. Follow paths through ancient Caledonian forests and scramble up steep ascents to reach the summit of Britain’s highest mountain. Hiking in the Scottish Highlands is nothing short of glorious.

Something to keep in mind: being the UK, its likely to be poor weather conditions in the winter and autumn months, so be prepared, or better, plan your hikes for the summer! Always check the weather conditions before attempting to climb Ben Nevis, as it is often impassable for hikers due to snow. You can check the weather forecast for Ben Nevis using the Mountain Weather Information Centre.

Routes included

The Grey Corries from Glen Nevis

A long and challenging classic ridge walk with a feeling of remoteness.

Extreme Hiking

Distance: 25 km
Ascent: 1.7 km
Descent: 1.8 km

Stob Ban and Mullach nan Coirean

A shorter, easier alternative to the neighbouring Ring of Steall - but no less worthwhile.

Extreme Hiking

Distance: 10 km
Ascent: 1 km
Descent: 1.1 km

West Highland Way 6: Kings House Hotel to Kinlochleven

There's a lot to be said for this fairly short stage of the West Highland Way.

Difficult Hiking

Distance: 14 km
Ascent: 406 m
Descent: 638 m

Ben Nevis via the CMD Arete

A contender for the title of grandest ridge walk in the country, the Carn Mor Dearg (CMD) Arete straddles that fine line between rambling and scrambling.

Extreme Hiking

Distance: 23 km
Ascent: 1.6 km
Descent: 2.2 km

West Highland Way 7: Kinlochleven to Ft.William

This final stage of the route nicely rounds off the WHW, running from the attractive wooded shores of Loch Leven and over the desolate high pass of the Lairig Mor beneath the southern flank of the Mamores.

Moderate Hiking