Image shared for Ben Lomond

Ben Lomond

974m Elevation
820m Prominence
Scotland Country
Find walking friends Explore routes

Good walks are even better shared.

Explore routes near Ben Lomond

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

Ben Lomond in the trossachs

12.1 km Hard

View route

The Cobbler from Succoth Carpark

10.5 km ~6h Hard

View route

Beinn Ime from Succoth

15.1 km ~7h Hard

View route

Ben Nevis via Mountain Path

15.6 km ~7h Hard

View route

Route planning notes

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

Ben Lomond via Tourist Path (Ptarmigan Route Descent)

This is the most popular route to the summit of Ben Lomond. Starting from Rowardennan car park, the trail follows the well-maintained Tourist Path through open woodland and grassy slopes, offering steady climbs and excellent views of Loch Lomond. The descent via Ptarmigan Ridge provides a more rugged and scenic alternative, with panoramic views of the Arrochar Alps and the loch below.

11 km ~5 hours Moderate

Ben Lomond via Ptarmigan Ridge

This route begins at Rowardennan car park and ascends Ben Lomond via the Ptarmigan Ridge. The trail is steeper and more rugged than the Tourist Path, but it's quieter and offers spectacular views throughout. The ridge walk is particularly scenic, providing a sense of remoteness and adventure. The descent is typically made via the Tourist Path for a more gradual return.

10 km ~5 hours Challenging

Ben Lomond Circular via Ardess Lodge

Starting from Ardess Lodge, this circular route uses the Tourist Path for the ascent and the Ptarmigan Ridge for the descent. It combines the ease of the primary track with the rugged beauty of Ptarmigan Ridge, making for a highly rewarding and varied walk. The route also offers a chance to explore the wooded lower slopes of the hill.

12 km ~5.5 hours Moderate

Ben Lomond from Rowardennan - Direct Ascent and Descent

This straightforward out-and-back route follows the Tourist Path both up and down the mountain. It is ideal for less experienced walkers or those looking for a simpler day out. The path is easy to follow and offers excellent views, though it can be busy in peak seasons.

11 km ~4.5 hours Moderate

Ben Lomond via Comer Farm Approach

This less-traveled route begins at Comer Farm and ascends Ben Lomond from the north-west. The trail is quieter and offers a more remote experience, with opportunities to enjoy wildlife and serene landscapes. The path eventually joins the Ptarmigan Ridge for the final ascent to the summit, providing a challenging but rewarding experience.

13 km ~6 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 Historic County Top (pre-1889) Administrative County Top (1889 to 1996)

Elevation

974m

3,195 ft

Prominence

820m

Coordinates

56.1903, -4.6330

NN367028

OS Map

56

Explorer: OL39S 364S

At the Summit

At the summit, you will find a prominent trig point and a modest cairn, both perfect spots for a triumphant photo opportunity. Just watch out for the gusty winds up there!

Terrain & Geology

A mix of rocky paths and grassy slopes with some sections featuring loose stones that can keep your footing interesting.

Ben Lomond is primarily composed of granite and volcanic rock, formed during the Caledonian orogeny. The stunning crags and cliffs around the summit are a testament to its tumultuous geological past.

Views & Scenery

Spectacular views of Loch Lomond and the surrounding islands, along with sights of the Southern Highlands.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Ben Lomond' comes from the Gaelic 'Beinn Laomainn', meaning 'mountain of the bare place' - not quite the name you'd expect for such a pretty location!

Historical Significance

Ben Lomond has long been a popular destination for hikers, celebrated for its accessibility and breathtaking views, making it a stalwart of the Scottish climbing community.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is a car park near the start of the Tourist Route, located just off the A82, approximately 2 miles north of Rowardennan.

Public Transport

Buses run from Glasgow to Balloch, with services to Rowardennan available in the summer months.

Nearby Facilities

The nearest facilities are available at Rowardennan, where you can find a café and toilets, as well as plenty of picturesque spots to enjoy a packed lunch.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Variable weather can change conditions quickly, leading to fog or slippery paths. Always check the forecast before setting out.

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 Lomond?

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

Are there other walkers around Ben Lomond?

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

Can I organise a walk to Ben Lomond?

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 Lomond.

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 Lomond?

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 Lomond 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 Lomond location map

Grid reference: NN367028

View on OpenStreetMap

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

Nearby Hills

Cruachan

537m

 Beinn Chabhair

Beinn Chabhair

932m

Ben Vorlich

943m

 An Caisteal

An Caisteal

996m

Beinn Narnain

927m
See 5 more nearby hills