Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in Scotland and the entire UK, is a bucket-list hike for adventurers of all levels. Megan and I had dreamed of tackling this iconic peak ever since our first trip to Scotland, when we met two fellow travelers in our B&B who were preparing for the challenge the next day. That conversation stuck with us, and on our 10th anniversary, we finally made the climb ourselves.
We hiked Ben Nevis at the end of August, and we couldn’t have asked for better weather. The sun was shining, the skies were clear, and the views were absolutely breathtaking. We felt especially lucky because just a week earlier, hikers had faced heavy rain and even hailstorms, a reminder of how unpredictable Scotland’s mountain weather can be.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or taking on your first major mountain, this guide covers everything you need to plan a safe and successful hike up Ben Nevis, including the best routes, essential gear, and key safety tips.
Why Hike Ben Nevis?
As it’s rated one of the most dangerous wonders in the world, you might ask yourself, “why even hike Ben Nevis”? If you asked every hiker on the mountain I’m sure you would get a different answer, however, I think everyone who has hiked Ben Nevis or is planning on it would agree with the reasons below.
What Makes Ben Nevis Special?
Ben Nevis is more than just the highest peak in Scotland, it’s a symbol of adventure. Rising 1,345 meters (4,413 feet) above sea level, it dominates the skyline and provides breathtaking views over the Scottish Highlands. Every time Megan and I have driven through Fort William, we’ve seen Ben Nevis standing in the background, looking over the town and tempting us to hike it. It’s a presence you can’t ignore.
To put this hike in perspective, most Colorado 14ers have trailheads that start at a much higher elevation, often around 10,000 to 11,000 feet. While the total elevation gain can be similar or greater, hikers in Colorado are already starting at significantly higher altitudes, meaning the overall ascent is different.
Since Ben Nevis starts close to sea level, hikers climb the mountain’s full height without the benefit of an already high starting point. So while many mountains have greater total elevation gains, Ben Nevis is unique because it offers a full, uninterrupted ascent from near sea level, which is rare among major mountains.
The Challenge and Reward of Reaching the Highest Peak in the UK
Hiking Ben Nevis is not just about the summit, it’s about the journey. The steep inclines, unpredictable weather, and long ascent test your endurance, but reaching the top feels like a true accomplishment. The panoramic views of Scotland make every step worth it.
It’s also part of the Three Peak Challenge, which involves hiking the three highest peaks found in Wales, England and Scotland, all within 24 hours. It’s quite the accomplishment. We ran into a couple hikers who were participating in it, but we’ll personally have to work up to that.
History and Significance of the Mountain
Ben Nevis is an ancient, geologically fascinating mountain formed from the remains of a collapsed volcano, hence why you see so many rocks at the summit. Its name comes from the Gaelic “Beinn Nibheis,” meaning “mountain with its head in the clouds.” It has long been a site for scientific research, with an observatory operating at the summit in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, it attracts thousands of hikers each year, drawn by its reputation and the thrill of standing at the top of Britain.
How to Get to Ben Nevis
Ben Nevis is located near Fort William, which is the best base for anyone planning to hike the mountain. If you’re visiting from outside of Scotland, the two main cities you’ll likely be traveling from are either Edinburgh or Glasgow, and there are multiple ways to get there:
1. Driving (Our Preferred Option)
We rented a car and drove straight from Edinburgh, which took about 3.5 hours. The journey was absolutely stunning, with winding roads passing through Glencoe, one of Scotland’s most breathtaking landscapes. If you’re looking for flexibility and scenic stops, driving is the best way to get to Ben Nevis.
- From Edinburgh: 3.5 hour drive (via A84 and A82)
- From Glasgow: 2.5 hour drive (via A82 through Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park)
- Rental Car Tip: Booking a car in advance is recommended, especially in peak season (July to September).
2. By Train
Fort William is accessible by train, with daily services from both Edinburgh and Glasgow:
- From Edinburgh: Take a train to Glasgow Queen Street, then transfer to the West Highland Line to Fort William (total time: 5 hours).
- From Glasgow: Take the West Highland Line direct to Fort William (total time: 4 hours).
- Why Take the Train? The West Highland Line is considered one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world, passing through Rannoch Moor and Loch Lomond. Or if you don’t feel comfortable driving a car on the left side of the road.
3. By Bus
For budget travelers, buses are another option:
- From Edinburgh: Direct bus (5.5 hours) or via Glasgow (4.5 hours).
- From Glasgow: Direct bus (3.5 hours).
- Operators: Citylink and Megabus offer services.
4. Guided Tours
If you’re simply wanting to see Ben Nevis, and don’t have any plans to hike the mountain, nor do you want to drive or navigate Scotlands public tranport, then there are guided tours from Edinburgh.
If you don’t want to drive or navigate public transport, there are guided tours from Edinburgh and Glasgow that include the Scottish Highlands, Fort William and Ben Nevis as part of a multi-day itinerary.
Click here for the mult-day tour from Edinburgh
Click here for the multi-day tour from Glasgow
Regardless of how you get there, reaching Fort William is the first step in your Ben Nevis adventure!
Where to stay in Fort William
Before hiking Ben Nevis, we drove into Fort William for a good nights rest and to gather supplies. Knowing we’d be exhuasted afterward, we chose to stay at a hotel near Ben Nevis with a restaurant. That way we could return, shower, and head straight to lunch or dinner without ever leaving the hotel.
Hotels and Lodges:
The Moorings Hotel (Where we stayed)
- Full service restaurant and bar
- Beautiful views of Ben Nevis and the locke
- Free Parking
- 9-minute drive to Ben Nevis Visitor Centre
The Garrison Hotel
- Easy walking distance to the center of Fort William
- Free Parking
- 6-minute drive to Ben Nevis Visitor Center
Lime Tree Hotel
- Breakfast included (7:30am M-F, and 8am Sat & Sun, so you might miss it on the day of the hike)
- Easy walking distance to the center of Fort William
- Free Parking
- 6-minute drive to Ben Nevis Visitor Center
Hostels and Budget Stays:
Glen Nevis Youth Hostel
- Breakfast Buffet (optional, $7 USD)
- Dormitory or Private Room options
- Free Parking
- 5 minute drive to Fort William
- Great Location – at the base of Ben Nevis
Fort William Backpackers
- Free Parking
- Breakfast (optional, $4 USD)
- Dormitory or Twin Bed Room options
- 15 miinute walk to the center of Fort William
- 8 minute drive to Ben Nevis Visitor Center
Honorable Mention:
Ben Nevis Inn
- Great Location – at the base of Ben Nevis
- Fantastic Burger – the restaurant and bar is a great place to hang out and celebrate finishing the hike
- Dorm and shared bathrooms
- Not a budget hostel, but conveneint place to stay
Booking Tips for Peak Season
- Book early. Summer is the busiest season, and accommodations fill up fast.
- Check cancellation policies. The weather can change, so flexible bookings are helpful.
- Consider nearby areas. If Fort William is fully booked, nearby villages like Spean Bridge or Banavie offer great alternatives.
Choosing Your Route: Which Trail is Best for You?
Ben Nevis offers two main routes, each with different levels of difficulty:
The Mountain Track (Tourist Route) – Best for Beginners
This is the track we took and is the most popular path. It’s also the most well maintained path, which is important because Ben Nevis is one of the most dangerous natural attractions based on incidents.
If you plan to take this route, be sure to start at the correct location by searching for ‘Ben Nevis Visitor Centre’ on Google Maps.
The hike:
- Distance: 10.5 miles (17 km) round trip
- Elevation Gain: 1,345 meters (4,413 feet)
- Estimated Time: 6-8 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate to difficult (due to length and elevation)
- What to Expect: Gradual ascent (until it’s not 😆 see our video for more details on this) with rocky terrain near the summit.
The Carn Mor Dearg Arête (CMD Route)
This is for seriously, experienced hikers. May we reiterate, this is one of the world’s most dangerous natural attractions. This is a difficult climb. This route is best for those comfortable with exposure and scrambling.
- Distance: 11.2 miles (18 km) round trip
- Elevation Gain: 1,345 meters (4,413 feet)
- Estimated Time: 8-10 hours
- Difficulty: Challenging (requires scrambling and a good head for heights)
- What to Expect: A dramatic ridge walk with unparalleled views, steep sections, and narrow paths. Best in clear weather as it can be dangerous in fog or high winds.
Alternative Routes for Experienced Climbers
For those looking for a challenge beyond the traditional paths, there are other routes available:
- The Carn Mor Dearg (CMD) Arete Variant: A variation of the CMD Arete Route that takes an even more exposed path with extra scrambling.
- The North Face Climb: A true mountaineering route that requires technical climbing gear and expertise.
- Winter Climbs: Best attempted by seasoned climbers with full winter equipment and experience.
Nevis Range Mountain Gondola
If you’re looking for a breathtaking way to experience the views of Ben Nevis without hiking to the summit, the Nevis Range Mountain Gondola is a fantastic alternative. Located just a short drive from Fort William, this scenic gondola ride takes visitors up Aonach Mòr, the neighboring mountain to Ben Nevis, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Highlands.
- Where to Find It: The gondola is located at the Nevis Range Mountain Resort, approximately 7 miles (11 km) north of Fort William.
- Elevation Gain: The gondola takes you up to 650 meters (2,133 feet), providing a unique perspective of Ben Nevis and the Great Glen.
- What to Expect: A smooth and scenic 15-minute ride to the upper station, where you can enjoy viewing platforms, walking trails, and a café with incredible vistas.
- Perfect for: Those who want to soak in the Highlands’ beauty without the strenuous hike, or hikers who want an additional viewpoint before or after tackling Ben Nevis.
Safety Tips for Hiking Ben Nevis
Weather Risks and How to Prepare
- Always check the mountain weather forecast before starting your hike. (provide the website)
- Be prepared for sudden changes—rain, wind, and even snow can appear unexpectedly.
- Carry waterproof gear and extra warm layers, even in summer.
Navigation and Emergency Preparedness
- AllTrails app – We used this app to stay on track as the summit is often covered in mist or a cloud
- Phone signals can be weak, so let someone know your plans before you hike.
The AllTrails app allows you to Live share your location with friends and family. - Whistle – allows you to alert people of your location if you phone is unusable.
- First Aid Kit – bring in case of emergencies.
Want out FULL list of our hiking essentials? Click here
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Starting too late in the day. Ensure you have enough daylight to finish the hike.
- Wearing improper footwear. Hiking boots with ankle support are essential.
- Underestimating the physical challenge. Ben Nevis is not an easy climb.
What to Pack for Ben Nevis?
Essential Gear
Packing the right gear can make or break your hike. Waterproof clothing, sturdy hiking boots, and trekking poles are essential for navigating Ben Nevis’ often unpredictable weather and rocky terrain. Remember, this is Scotland afterall… one minute it’s bright and sunny, the next it’s raining and hailing.
Megan and I didn’t bring trekking poles, but we quickly realized how much they would have helped on the descent. The steep, uneven terrain takes a toll on your knees, and trekking poles would have provided much needed support.
Andrew’s Outfit & Recommendations
- Rain Jacket (it is Scotland after all)
- Merrell Hiking Boots
- Merino Wool Hiking Socks
- Collapsible Trekking Poles (will fit in your bag or suitcase)
- Osprey 20L Daypack
- OOLA Organic Face Sunscreen 50 SPF (travel size)
- Reusable Water Bottle
- Snacks (protein bars, banana, beef jerky)
If it’s going to be cold:
- Men’s Carhartt Beanie
- Men’s Insulated Gloves
- Men’s Thermal Top
- Men’s Thermal Bottom
- Men’s Northface Thermal Jacket
Megan’a Outfit & Recommendations
- Women’s Carhartt Beanie (was nice to wear on the summit)
- Merrell Hiking Boots
- Leggings
- Thermal Top
- Merino Wool Hiking Socks
If it’s going to be cold:
Hiking boots are highly recommended. As mentioned earlier, one of the most common injuries on Ben Nevis is a sprained or broken ankle. The right hiking boots with plenty of traction can help you avoid being the next person needing mountain rescue.
FAQs: Answering Common Questions
Do you need a permit to hike Ben Nevis?
No, you do not need a permit to hike Ben Nevis. The mountain is open to the public year-round, and there are no entry fees. However, if you plan to take on more technical routes or climb in winter, proper experience and equipment are essential.
What’s the altitude sickness risk?
Altitude sickness is generally not a concern on Ben Nevis, as it stands at 1,345 meters (4,413 feet), which is below the usual threshold for altitude related issues. However, some hikers may still feel mild symptoms like dizziness or shortness of breath, especially if they ascend too quickly without breaks.
Can beginners hike Ben Nevis?
Yes, beginners can hike Ben Nevis, but it’s important to be physically prepared and well-equipped. The Mountain Route is the best option for first time hikers, but it still requires endurance, proper hiking boots, and an understanding of mountain safety. Checking the weather forecast and starting early in the day is essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable climb.
What’s the average temperature at the Summit?
| Month | High °C (°F) | Low °C (°F) |
| January | -2.8 (27) | -6.4 (20.5) |
| February | -2.5 (27.5) | -6.4 (20.5) |
| March | -2.6 (27.3) | -6.3 (20.7) |
| April | 0.2 (32.4) | -4.3 (24.3) |
| May | 2.6 (36.7) | -1.6 (29.1) |
| June | 6.5 (43.7) | 2.2 (36) |
| July | 7.1 (44.8) | 3.1 (37.6) |
| August | 6.8 (44.2) | 2.8 (37) |
| September | 5.3 (41.5) | 1.4 (34.5) |
| October | 0.1 (32.2) | -3.5 (25.7) |
| November | -2.3 (27.9) | -5.3 (22.5) |
| December | -2.0 (28.4) | -5.5 (22.1) |
Final Thoughts
Hiking Ben Nevis was one of the most memorable experiences of our travels in Scotland. Whether you’re taking on the challenge for the incredible views, personal achievement, or just to say you’ve stood at the highest point in the UK, it’s a hike well worth doing. Plan well, check the weather, and enjoy every step of the adventure.
Have you hiked Ben Nevis before? Let us know your experience in the comments or if you have any questions before your own trek!
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