Cow Hill Hike

Ben Nevis

This hike offers spectacular views of Ben Nevis and other neighbouring peaks.

Hiking Moderate

Distance: 10 km
Ascent: 460 m
Descent: 460 m
Duration: 2-3 hrs

Low Point: 18 m
High Point: 288 m
Gradient: 11˚

Cow Hill blocks the view of Ben Nevis from Fort William village centre so it is an annoyance to most tourists, but a great viewpoint for those who make the effort to climb it!

Description

You can begin this hike from anywhere in Fort William but we've drawn it from the edge of town, where the path enters a forest. there are numerous paths around so just keep an eye on FATMAP to make sure you're on the correct one. The path climbs - steeply at times - and the views improve with every step.

Eventually you'll emerge onto the blunt ridge which leads easily onto the summit. Soak in the massive panorama across Fort William and its surrounding scenery, as well as the mighty Ben Nevis itself.

Descend by the same route.

Difficulty

Moderate

Hiking along trails with some uneven terrain and small hills. Small rocks and roots may be present.

Low Exposure

The path is on completely flat land and potential injury is limited to falling over.

Remoteness

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

Features

Similar routes nearby

1.7 km away

Ben Nevis Mountain Track

The classic route up the UK's highest mountain

Difficult Hiking

Distance: 16 km
Ascent: 1.3 km
Descent: 1.3 km

4.1 km away

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