NC4750 : Crags on Ben Hope

Ben Hope

927m Elevation
772m Prominence
Scotland Country
Find walking friends Explore routes

Good walks are even better shared.

NC4750 : Crags on Ben Hope

Richard Webb Photo source

Explore routes near Ben Hope

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

Ben Klibreck

16.9 km ~8h 20m Moderate

View route

Route planning notes

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

Ben Hope Standard Route (South Ridge)

This is the most popular and direct route to the summit of Ben Hope, starting from the car park at Muiseal (grid ref NC462477). The path follows the Allt a’Mhuiseil before climbing steeply up the well-defined southern ridge. The ascent offers incredible views over Strath More and toward Loch Hope, making it a rewarding hike. The terrain can be boggy in places, particularly after heavy rain, but the path is generally clear.

7 km ~4 hours Moderate

Ben Hope Circular Route via Strathmore River

This circular route takes a less direct approach, starting from Muiseal and following the main path to the summit. On descent, instead of retracing your steps, head north-east along the ridge before descending toward the Strathmore River. Follow the riverbank southward back to the start point. This route offers a quieter alternative with varied terrain and panoramic views, but pathfinding skills are required on the descent.

10.5 km ~6 hours Challenging

Ben Hope North Ridge Route

Starting from Altnacaillich (grid ref NC450516), this route ascends Ben Hope via its rugged northern ridge. The approach is steeper and less trodden than the standard route, offering a more remote and adventurous experience. The terrain includes rocky outcrops and some scrambling, and the summit reveals breathtaking views toward the Orkney Islands on a clear day.

8 km ~5 hours Challenging

Ben Hope and Loch Hope Circuit

This extended route combines an ascent of Ben Hope with a loop around Loch Hope. Starting from the Muiseal car park, ascend via the standard route to the summit. Descend northward and circle Loch Hope on footpaths and estate tracks. This demanding route is ideal for experienced hikers seeking a full-day adventure with diverse scenery, including lochs, rivers, and mountain views.

20 km ~10 hours Very Challenging

Ben Hope Winter Ascent (South Ridge)

The standard south ridge route of Ben Hope takes on a completely different character in winter conditions. Starting from the Muiseal car park, the ascent involves navigating snow-covered slopes, with crampons and ice axes necessary for safe travel. This route is ideal for experienced winter hikers and provides unparalleled views of a snow-clad landscape.

7 km ~5 hours Challenging
Browse more walks on the map

Make a day of it, together

Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.

Find walking friends Plan a walk here
Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Munro Simm High Hills of Britain

Elevation

927m

3,041 ft

Prominence

772m

Coordinates

58.4131, -4.6079

NC477501

OS Map

9

Explorer: 447N 447S

At the Summit

At the summit, you will find a stone cairn and a trig point, both of which are popular spots for photos amidst the breathtaking views.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky and grassy with some steep sections; expect a bit of boggy ground lower down the slopes.

Ben Hope is primarily composed of sedimentary rock, particularly quartzite, and features some impressive geological formations, which provide insights into the ancient environments that shaped this majestic mountain. The summit area is known for its rugged landscape and dramatic cliffs.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, hikers can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, lochs, and the dramatic coastline of the northern Highlands. On a clear day, the Orkney Islands can also be spotted in the distance.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Ben Hope' comes from the Gaelic 'Beinn Hob', meaning 'mountain of hope', which may reflect the breathtaking views that inspire a sense of wonder.

Historical Significance

Ben Hope holds cultural significance as the most northerly Munro in Scotland, often sought after by Munro baggers.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

A small car park is located at NC 465 486, which accommodates around 10 vehicles. Arrive early to secure a spot, especially during peak hiking season.

Public Transport

The nearest bus stop is in the village of Tongue, from where you can take a taxi to the starting point.

Nearby Facilities

There are few facilities in the area, but you can find cafes and shops in Tongue for supplies. Toilets may be available at the village's community centre.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Watch out for loose rocks and steep drops on the summit area. Weather conditions can change rapidly, so be prepared for sudden changes and make sure to carry the right gear.

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 Hope?

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

Are there other walkers around Ben Hope?

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 Hope search or of course create your own walk for Ben Hope

Can I organise a walk to Ben Hope?

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 Hope.

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 Hope?

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 Hope 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

Ben Hope location map

Grid reference: NC477501

View on OpenStreetMap

Opens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.

Nearby Hills

Ben Loyal - An Caisteal

764m

Ben Stack

721m

Ben More Assynt

999m

Quinag - Sail Gharbh

809m

Quinag - Spidean Coinich

764m
See 5 more nearby hills