The Conic Hill Walk: A Step-By-Step Hiking Adventure

For those holiday hikers wanting panoramic views of Loch Lomond, its islands and the surrounding area, Conic Hill is the perfect hiking destination for you.

This iconic hill is perfect for those wanting an accessible hike that’s relatively short compared to other hikes in the area suitable for most fitness levels. While the hike up Conic Hill can be fairly challenging, the view from the top is always with it.

Looking to hike Conic Hill? Then read on!

Where is Conic Hill?

Conic Hill is great for those wanting a short trip in the Trossachs that’s relatively close to Cameron House and Balloch. Sitting to the north of Balmaha and east of Milarrochy, Conic Hill is perfectly placed to give extraordinary views over Loch Lomond. From its peak, you can easily see Ichfad, Inchcailloch, Inchcruin and Bucinch, among the other Loch Lomond islands further afield.

How do I get to Conic Hill?

Conic Hill is an easy place to get to, adding to its popularity as a hiking spot. The easiest way to get there is from the Balmaha Visitor Centre. Next to the visitor centre is the Conic Hill car park and the start of the trail to the top.

However, a less known fact is that the trail can also be accessed from the east side of the hill from the West Highland Way and the trail itself forms a small section of the hiking route across Scotland.

If wanting to get to Conic Hill from Cameron House by car you’ll need to:

• Drive down the A82 towards Balloch
• Turn onto the A811 at Stoneymollan Roundabout
• Stay on the A811 until you reach Dryman
• Turn onto Dryman Main Street (B858)
• Follow the B858 until you can turn off onto Balmaha Road (B837). The B837 will take you to the Conic Hill car park.

If you are coming from further afield, such as Glasgow, the easiest way to get to Conic Hill by car is to:

• Take the A81 from Cowcaddens (near the M8 interchange).
• Turn onto Drymen 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 where you’ll merge onto the A811.
• Turn onto Dryman Main Street (B858)
• Follow the B858 until you can turn off onto Balmaha Road (B837). The B837 will take you to the Conic Hill car park.

Is Conic Hill easy to climb?

Conic Hill is considered to be one of the easier hikes in and around the Loch Lomond and Trossachs area – this is why it is so popular! The hike can get more challenging towards the top as you reach the peak and the hike becomes steeper, but otherwise, it is fairly easy going most of the way. If you are reasonably fit, the hill won’t pose much of a challenge to you.

How long is the climb?

The climb up Conic Hill is relatively short and can be completed in around 2 or 3 hours with breaks (because you’ll want to take in those views when you’re up there!). This makes it ideal for a morning hike, allowing you to spend the afternoon exploring the visitor centre at Balmaha.

Distance of hike: 2.8 miles (4.5 km) approximately.

Conic Hill Trails

Conic Hill doesn’t just have one trail to its peak. Thankfully, the hill has a variety of trails to choose from depending on your fitness level and goal with climbing the iconic hill. The hill features several lower trails that don’t lead to the peak but still provide a stunning view of the surrounding area. If your goal is a great view but don’t feel too keen on climbing to the top, these lower trails are an ideal compromise.

The two main trails people take are:

• Linear Route. This route goes straight up to the peak and back down. This is the most common route people take when thinking of climbing the hill and is that trail that also forms a part of the West Highland Way. It starts in the North from the car park and takes you up the East side of the hill to the summit.
• Circular Route. This is less common and is a far longer walk, but isn’t nearly as steep. The incline towards the summit is from East to West and you’ll come up the West side of Conic Hill. This walk begins with a stroll along the B837 (road to Dryman), before joining up with the hiking trails on the West side of the hill at the West Highland Way.

What should I take when climbing Conic Hill?

The hike up Conic Hill is a relatively short one (unless you decide to take the circular route mentioned above). However, despite how short the hike is, it is always recommended that you bring:

• Water. It is very important to take water with you to keep yourself hydrated. Aim to carry at least a litre per person so that you’ll have more than enough to get to the top and back again.
• Food. Taking food with you is usually recommended on any hike (even if it’s just healthy snacks like protein bars). Food will help give you a boost when you need it most near the peak or will be a nice reward when you’re soaking in the view at the top.
• A map of the route. No matter the route’s length, always have a printout or a map with you (just in case).
• A change of clothes. It is important to wear the right clothes when going for a hike, but it is also important to have something to change into after a hike. Nobody likes sweaty clothes!

FAQs About Hiking Conic Hill

Can you walk Conic Hill in trainers?

Yes. Conic Hill is a relatively easy hike. There are a few sections that can get muddy and rocky, so keep that in mind. While it can be done in trainers, it is often best to use boots designed for hiking.

Is Conic Hill worth it?

Absolutely! While the hike can get a bit steeper towards the top, once you’re up there the views don’t disappoint (assuming it isn’t a foggy day!).

Is Conic Hill for beginners?

Yes. Conic Hill is by far one of the easier hills to hike in and around the Loch Lomond area. The top of the hill is more challenging than the rest of the hike but is well within the limits of hikeability for beginners.