The Ben Lomond Walk: Everything You Need To Know For The Munro
Ben Lomond is one of the most famous Munros, and it is clear why between its scenic slopes and magnificent viewpoints. The mountain’s fame and beauty have led it to be one of the best to bag for avid hikers exploring the Trossachs. The landmark’s popularity is partly due to its relatively easy path to the top which doesn’t require much hiking experience.
Are you ready to tackle its slopes? Today we detail everything you need to know about the Ben Lomond walk to ensure you come appropriately prepared to conquer it.
Where is Ben Lomond?
Ben Lomond is a Munro that sits on the shores of Loch Lomond, and is part of the Trossachs National Park. It overlooks Loch Lomond and sits between Rowardennan to the south and Rowchoish to the north on the loch’s eastern banks.
How do I get to Ben Lomond?
Thankfully, Cameron House is uniquely situated nearby to give you easy access to not only Ben Lomond but Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, as well as Balloch and Loch Lomond Shores. We are situated on the Western bank of the Loch on the A82 to the North of Balloch, before Arden on Cameron Bay. This makes Ben Lomond a quick 30-40 minute drive up the scenic Eastern side of the loch via Buchanan Castle.
If you are coming from further afield, such as Glasgow, the easiest way to get to Ben Lomond by car is to:
- Take the A81 from Cowcaddens (near the M8 interchange).
- Turn onto Dymen Rd from the A81 at Canniesburn Toll Roundabout.
- Continue on Drymen Rd out past Bearsden, turning onto the A809 which will take you North out of the city.
- The A908 will take you out to Drymen and past Buchanan Castle where you can continue onto Ben Lomond car park at Rowardennan.
Is Ben Lomond easy to climb?
Ben Lomond is, if you are new to hiking and unprepared, one of the harder munros to tackle. It is not a Munro you can challenge on a whim, despite its relatively well-defined path. While it’s true that Ben Lomond doesn’t require a whole lot of technical climbing skills to complete, it is a long hike with a significant upward climb to it. If you do plan on tackling it, you’ll need:
- A reasonable level of fitness
- Some prior experience hiking
- A good, clear day to ensure you stay safe
So, is it easy? For experienced hikers, yes. If you are new to hiking, we’d recommend you bring someone with experience with you or tackle easier climbs first.
How long is the climb?
Ben Lomond isn’t a Munro you can complete in an hour or two or ‘in a morning’s climb’. It is a long hike that’ll take at least 5 to 6 hours to complete with reasonable pacing. If you plan to hike it, you’ll need to start in the early morning so that you can be home by evening.
Thankfully, staying close by will give you more options to hike the Munro. Cameron House has a wide range of rooms for all kinds of travellers. Browse our room selection and choose comfort before and after tackling Ben Lomond.
What should I take when climbing Ben Lomond?
Despite how relatively easy Ben Lomond’s hike is compared to other mountains in the Trossachs and across Scotland, you’ll still need to make sure you have everything you need. It can be quite a lengthy hike meaning you’ll need to bring provisions with you. You’ll absolutely need to bring:
- Water. This is a non-negotiable on any hiking trip. Staying hydrated is very important to ensure you stay safe and don’t end up suffering from dehydration. While water can be heavy and cumbersome to carry, we’d recommend carrying at least 1 litre per person.
- Food. It is usually a good idea to carry food with you for any hike, but for Ben Lomond, you’ll want to pack a lunch. Bring food that doesn’t easily spoil in the heat, such as protein bars, breakfast bars, nuts, and fruits. If you do decide to bring a sandwich with you, be sure to make it the same day and pack it correctly with foil and a ziplock bag.
- A map of the route. When you get into the more remote parts of the climb you likely won’t be able to access Google Maps or any electronic maps that rely on an online connection. Download or print a map of the route out just to be on the super safe side!
- A change of clothes. Pack a change of clothes with you for after your hike. You’ll likely work up a sweat during the hike and a change of clothes can make all the difference on the road back home. It is also important to wear the right clothes, depending on the season.
When all is said and done, staying safe is the most important thing! Be sure that you take enough food and water with you when going on any hike – be it Ben Lomond or any of the other fantastic hikes in and around the Loch Lomond area.
Is hiking maybe not for you? That’s fine! There are plenty of family-friendly activities and dog-friendly activities you can take part in near Loch Lomond.
FAQs About Walking Up Ben Lomond
How high is Ben Lomond?
At its highest, Ben Lomond reaches 974 metres above sea level (3,193 feet).
Is Ben Lomond harder than Snowdon?
If climbing Snowdon from the Pen-y-pass, Ben Lomond takes longer to climb. Ben Lomond will reach about 950 metres for the climb whereas Snowdon is around 700 metres.
Can beginners climb Ben Lomond?
Yes. Ben Lomond is considered an easy climb for beginner hikers. There are several paths up Ben Lomond, all of which are a great walk!
Do you need hiking boots for Ben Lomond?
While Ben Lomond is one of the easier Munros to climb it is still a Munro, and Munros can be a challenge depending on how fit you are. But regardless of fitness level, hiking boots are a must to keep you safe from potential trips and slips.