NN6341 : Snow patches on Ben Lawers

Ben Lawers

1,214m Elevation
914m Prominence
Scotland Country
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NN6341 : Snow patches on Ben Lawers

Alan O'Dowd Photo source

Explore routes near Ben Lawers

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

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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Ben Nevis via Mountain Path

15.6 km ~7h 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 Lawers via Nature Reserve Car Park

This classic route begins at the Ben Lawers National Nature Reserve car park (Grid Ref: NN608377). From here, follow the clear path through the reserve, ascending through grassy slopes and heather moorland. The path steepens as it climbs toward Beinn Ghlas, offering spectacular views of Loch Tay. From Beinn Ghlas, continue along the ridge to the summit of Ben Lawers. The return follows the same route, allowing walkers to enjoy the stunning vistas once again.

10 km ~5 hours Moderate

Ben Lawers and Beinn Ghlas Circuit

This circular route starts from the Ben Lawers National Nature Reserve car park (Grid Ref: NN608377). Ascend via the main path to Beinn Ghlas before continuing to the summit of Ben Lawers. From here, descend via the less-trodden path to the north, which leads back to the car park. This route provides a quieter return leg and a sense of adventure while still showcasing the incredible views of the surrounding peaks and Loch Tay.

11 km ~5.5 hours Moderate

Ben Lawers Ridge Walk

This extended ridge route is perfect for experienced hillwalkers. Starting at the Lawers Hotel (Grid Ref: NN608378), follow the path to Beinn Ghlas, then continue over Ben Lawers and onto An Stùc. The route then descends via Meall Garbh and Meall Greigh, completing the ridge. A return to the start is done via a combination of paths and tracks. This walk is a true test of stamina and rewards walkers with unparalleled views of the Tarmachan Ridge and beyond.

16 km ~8 hours Hard

Ben Lawers from Lochan na Lairige

This alternative route starts from the high-level car park near Lochan na Lairige (Grid Ref: NN608390). The path leads directly up the slopes toward the summit of Beinn Ghlas before continuing to Ben Lawers. This route is shorter than those starting from the Nature Reserve but involves a steeper ascent. The return follows the same path. It is ideal for those seeking a quicker route to Ben Lawers while still enjoying scenic views.

8 km ~4 hours Moderate

Ben Lawers and Tarmachan Viewpoint

This route combines the ascent of Ben Lawers with a detour to a lesser-known viewpoint overlooking the Tarmachan Ridge. Starting at the Nature Reserve car park (Grid Ref: NN608377), follow the standard route to Ben Lawers. On the descent, take a short diversion to the viewpoint before rejoining the main path back to the car park. This option adds a unique perspective to the classic route, making it a great choice for photographers and nature enthusiasts.

12 km ~6 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Munro Simm High Hills of Britain Historic County Top (pre-1889) Administrative County Top (1889 to 1996) Current County/UA Top

Elevation

1,214m

3,984 ft

Prominence

914m

Coordinates

56.5449, -4.2209

NN635414

OS Map

51

Explorer: OL48E 378E

At the Summit

The summit features a prominent trig point and a substantial cairn, perfect for that all-important selfie (or three) when reaching the top.

Terrain & Geology

Rugged and rocky with sections of grass and heather underfoot.

Ben Lawers is primarily composed of metamorphic rocks, including schists and gneisses, formed during the Caledonian orogeny. The mountain showcases a fascinating geological history, with evidence of ancient glacial activity.

Views & Scenery

Stunning panoramic views of Loch Tay, the surrounding peaks of the Lawers range, and, on a clear day, the distant hills of the Southern Highlands.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Lawers' derives from the Gaelic 'Labhar,' meaning 'the speaker', referring to the mountain's prominent position.

Historical Significance

Ben Lawers holds cultural significance in Scottish folklore and history, often featured in local tales and mountain lore.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Ben Lawers Visitor Centre car park, NN634417. Offers ample parking space with facilities available.

Public Transport

Limited public transport options are available, with the nearest bus service running to Killin. Taxis may be required from there.

Nearby Facilities

The Ben Lawers Visitor Centre provides a café, information displays, and toilets to cater to visitors before or after their hike.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Loose rocks on steep section, rapidly changing weather conditions, and potential for fog. Be sure to wear sturdy boots and pack extra layers!

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 Lawers?

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

Are there other walkers around Ben Lawers?

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

Can I organise a walk to Ben Lawers?

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 Lawers.

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 Lawers?

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 Lawers 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 Lawers location map

Grid reference: NN635414

View on OpenStreetMap

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

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