NH8908 : Ord Ban Summit

Ord Ban

429m Elevation
167m Prominence
Scotland Country
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Overview

Ord Ban: A Jewel of the Scottish Highlands

Geology

Ord Ban is predominantly made up of ancient granitic rock, a robust component of the Highland landscape. Its formation has shaped the picturesque scenery around it, providing both strength and a touch of history. One can ponder the eons it took to craft these wonderful peaks while enjoying the fresh Highland air.

Access

Getting to Ord Ban is quite straightforward. The closest parking area is located on the A82, around 400 meters from where the buzz of your adventure truly begins. Public transport options abound, with bus services running frequently from Fort William to nearby locales. A quick taxi ride can get you set to go!

Route Details

The most popular route to the summit is from Loch Lochy. This engaging trek spans roughly 10 km and takes about 4 hours, depending on your pace. You'll wind through enviable woodlands that's as green as a leprechaun's dream, before breaking into the rocky ascent that leads you to your rewarding viewpoint.

Summit Features

Upon reaching the summit, expect to find a cheerful cairn and a trig point, proving that even mountains appreciate a bit of company! Standing at 746 meters, the views are simply delightful. You can see across the tranquil waters of Loch Lochy and out over the Nevis Range, with Ben Nevis looming impressively in the distance.

Terrain

The ascent offers a diverse palette of terrain – you’ll traverse rocky outcrops, grassy moorland, and occasionally boggy pathways. Proper footwear is essential; nobody wants to lose a shoe in the Highland bog!

Views

The highlights from the summit are not to be missed. You’ll feast your eyes on sweeping vistas over Loch Lochy and the surrounding peaks. To savour the beauty in its full glory, aim for a spring or autumn visit, when the skies are clearer and the earth is adorned in vibrant hues.

Hazards

As with any Highland hike, be mindful of loose rocks – they can be trickier than a cat on a hot tin roof! Observe the weather, as it can change faster than you can utter 'Scottish sunshine'.

Nearby Summits

Ord Ban sits in splendid company, with notable neighbours such as Ben Nevis and Aonach Mor contributing to the grandiosity of the landscape. For seasoned climbers and curious hikers alike, the proximity allows for splendid multi-peak adventures.

Conclusion

Ord Ban offers something for everyone – from the casual walker to the seasoned mountaineer, with views that would make even the grumpiest bear crack a smile. Pack your rucksack, lace up your boots, and get ready for an experience you won’t soon forget! Don’t forget to send a postcard back to your friends!

Explore routes near Ord Ban

Public walks starting within 80 km of this hill. Nearby does not mean a route reaches the summit; check its map and access before setting out.

Rothiemurchus: Beaver Trail and Lochan Mor

6.1 km 1h 35m–2h 5m Moderate

View route

Aviemore: Loch an Eilein and the Croft Track from Rothiemurchus

11.3 km 2h 50m–3h 50m Moderate

View route

Glen Banvie Trail with the Bruar viewpoint

17.2 km 4h 20m–5h 45m Moderate

View route

Inverness: River Ness and Caledonian Canal circuit

11.1 km 2h 15m–2h 50m Easy

View route

Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches, not verified navigable routes or permission to cross land. Check current paths, local access rules and conditions before setting out.

Ascent from Loch Lochy

This popular route begins at the picturesque shores of Loch Lochy, leading you gently upwards through scenic coniferous woodlands before tackling the rocky ascent to the summit.

10 km ~4 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn 400-499m hill

Elevation

429m

1,407 ft

Prominence

167m

Coordinates

57.1542, -3.8337

NH891085

OS Map

35 36

Explorer: OL57N 403N

At the Summit

At the summit, hikers are greeted with a charming cairn and a magnificent trig point, standing sentinel over the stunning surroundings.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky with sections of grassy moorland interspersed with craggy outcrops.

The mountain is primarily composed of ancient granitic rock, characteristic of the Scottish Highlands, providing a robust foundation for the rugged landscape. The rock formations can be quite fascinating, lending themselves to both study and appreciation of geological history.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can marvel at the expansive vistas over Loch Lochy, the Nevis Range, and the distant peaks of Ben Nevis and Aonach Mor. Don’t forget your camera!

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Ord Ban' is derived from Gaelic, meaning 'White Height', possibly attributed to the snow-capped peaks that adorn it in winter.

Historical Significance

Ord Ban is a beloved destination for hillwalkers and nature lovers, cherished not only for its scenic beauty but also for its accessibility from local routes.

Getting There & Facilities

Check current local access restrictions, parking rules and transport timetables before travelling. These notes do not confirm public access to the summit.

Parking

The nearest parking is at the side of the A82, approximately 400 meters from the start of the route. Spaces are limited, so arrive early to avoid disappointment.

Public Transport

Regular bus services run from Fort William to the nearby villages, with a short taxi ride to the trailhead being a handy option for hikers.

Nearby Facilities

Cafés, restaurants, and public toilets are available in Fort William, ideal for post-hike refreshments or a hearty meal.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Loose rocks on the ascent can be slippery, especially in wet conditions. Weather can change rapidly in the Highlands, so be well-prepared.

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 Ord Ban?

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

Are there other walkers around Ord Ban?

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 Ord Ban search or of course create your own walk for Ord Ban

Can I organise a walk to Ord Ban?

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 Ord Ban.

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 Ord Ban?

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 Ord Ban 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

Ord Ban location map

Grid reference: NH891085

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

Hills within 30 km

Straight-line distance, not a walking route or confirmation of access.

Sgor Gaoith

1,116m

Braeriach

1,296m

 Cairn Toul

Cairn Toul

1,292m

 Ben Macdui [Beinn Macduibh]

Ben Macdui [Beinn Macduibh]

1,309m

 Cairn Gorm

Cairn Gorm

1,245m
See 5 more nearby hills

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