NN4971 : View west across Ben Alder plateau

Ben Alder

1,148m Elevation
783m Prominence
Scotland Country
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NN4971 : View west across Ben Alder plateau

Russel Wills Photo source

Explore routes near Ben Alder

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Ben Nevis via Mountain Path

15.6 km ~7h Hard

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The Cobbler from Succoth Carpark

10.5 km ~6h Hard

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Beinn Ime from Succoth

15.1 km ~7h Hard

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Ben Lomond in the trossachs

12.1 km Hard

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Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

Ben Alder via the Loch Ericht Approach

This classic route begins at Dalwhinnie Railway Station and follows the track along the northwest shore of Loch Ericht. From Culra Bothy, ascend via the Long Leachas ridge, which provides an enjoyable scramble with stunning views. Descend via the Short Leachas ridge back to the Culra Bothy area and retrace the path along Loch Ericht to Dalwhinnie.

32 km ~12 hours Challenging

Ben Alder via Culra Bothy and Bealach Dubh

This route begins at the car park near Loch Rannoch, heading through the woods to reach the shores of Loch Ericht. From Culra Bothy, head south through Bealach Dubh, looping around to ascend Ben Alder from its southern slopes. Descend via the Beinn Bheoil ridge for a scenic return to Culra Bothy, then back to the starting point.

30 km ~11 hours Challenging

Ben Alder East Circuit

This variation starts from the parking area near Loch Pattack and follows the path to Culra Bothy. From here, take the Long Leachas ridge to summit Ben Alder. Descend via the Beinn Bheoil ridge, circling around and rejoining the path near Culra Bothy for the return to the starting point.

26 km ~10 hours Challenging

Ben Alder via the Sron Bealach Beithe

Starting at Dalwhinnie, take the shore path along Loch Ericht to Culra Bothy. Ascend Ben Alder via the Sron Bealach Beithe ridge, which offers an alternative, quieter ascent. Descend via the Long Leachas ridge and return to Dalwhinnie along the same track.

34 km ~12.5 hours Challenging

Ben Alder and Beinn Bheoil Horseshoe

This circular route begins at Culra Bothy, accessed either from Dalwhinnie or Loch Pattack. Ascend Ben Alder via the Long Leachas ridge, then continue to Beinn Bheoil for a fantastic ridge walk. Descend the southern slopes of Beinn Bheoil to rejoin the Loch Ericht track and return to the starting point.

28 km ~10.5 hours Challenging
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Munro Simm High Hills of Britain

Elevation

1,148m

3,766 ft

Prominence

783m

Coordinates

56.8138, -4.4651

NN496718

OS Map

42

Explorer: OL50 385E 393

At the Summit

The summit boasts a large, impressive cairn and a trig point, both of which offer a perfect backdrop for those all-important summit selfies.

Terrain & Geology

A mix of rocky and grassy terrain with some boggy patches—so waterproof boots are a must!

Ben Alder is primarily composed of granite and schist, making for a rugged yet breathtaking landscape. Its geology reflects the complex tectonic processes that have shaped the Highlands over millions of years, giving rise to stunning cliffs and striking glacial features.

Views & Scenery

Spectacular views of the surrounding mountains including the expansive vistas over Loch Ericht and the glens of the Central Highlands.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Ben Alder' likely derives from the Gaelic 'Beinn Alder', meaning 'the mountain of the alders', referencing the trees that can be found in the area.

Historical Significance

Ben Alder is not just a peak; it has been a landmark for generations of hikers and has significant appeal for its remote beauty and the challenge it presents to climbers.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Parking is available at Loch Pattack, about 2 miles from the start of the trail. Be prepared for a small charge, and check for any seasonal restrictions.

Public Transport

The nearest train station is Dalwhinnie, from where local buses may operate to Loch Pattack. Always double-check the current schedule.

Nearby Facilities

There are no facilities directly on the mountain, but Dalwhinnie offers a few cafes, shops, and restrooms.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Uneven and potentially slippery ground, sudden weather changes, and wildlife crossings—keep an eye out for the occasional deer!

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Ben Alder?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Ben Alder through the maps

Are there other walkers around Ben Alder?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Ben Alder search or of course create your own walk for Ben Alder

Can I organise a walk to Ben Alder?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Ben Alder.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Ben Alder?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Ben Alder here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible

Location

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: NN496718

View on OpenStreetMap

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