Ben Nevis
4.5
About
Fondly called "Ben" by the locals, Britain's highest mountain towers 4,406 feet above the town of Fort William.
Duration: 1-2 hours
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- Tim KManchester, Connecticut2 contributionsHiking in the Scottish Central HighlandsKris Brown of AbootScotland provided me with an amazing 3 days weekend of hiking in the Scottish central highlands. On Friday we travelled to Glencoe and hike thru the Lost Valley. On Saturday we hiked up the North side of Ben Nevis up the Carn Mor Dearg Arête route. This was a challenging 10-hour hike including 3+ hours of scrambling. Thanks to Kris’s guidance and encouragement I was able to summit Ben Nevis. On Sunday, we took it a little easier and hiked thru the Nevis Gorge up to Steall Falls then most of the way up a mountain behind it. Kris also made me 3 short videos of my trip which was an extra bonus. Thank you, Kris, for giving me three great days of hiking in the Scottish central highlands.Visited June 2023Travelled soloWritten 15 June 2023
- johnsonwallaceNewcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom144 contributionsHard work but worth itThe last of the 3 peaks for us and as hard as the rest. However paths much easier to follow. We had no view from top but so pleased we did it. I would say if you can do first half (up to where you cross the river) you can get to the top but take your time.Visited June 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 26 June 2023
- T SSurrey, United Kingdom290 contributionsA great achievementWe climbed this on Friday, visability was poor but we were thrilled that we achieved it. It was also fun to watch the many people descending and ascending in inappropriate clothing and footwear . When we were about an hour from the bottom some guy coming up asked me if he was nearly there!!!!!Visited July 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 4 July 2023
- Russell MSouth of Scotland, United Kingdom37 contributionsBen Nevis, the slog!Britain's highest mountain. A tough slog not to be underestimated. The top is rarely free of clouds, locals reckon only 30 days a year! It is also very cold regardless o the temperature at sea level! Very rocky track of variable quality. Really not suitable for dogs, witnessed young fit dogs just lying down and refusing to move. It's extremely hard on their feet. Sad to see the litter, remember "Leave only footprints, take only memories ".Visited July 2023Travelled soloWritten 5 July 2023
- Laura H3 contributionsAmazingAbsolutely amazing day, very difficult climb but you just have to keep pushing! The visitor centre at the bottom is great for an ice cream! Felt a real sense of accomplishment afterwards! Advice - be prepared and take plenty of breaks. Also - have an ice bath afterwards!!Visited July 2023Travelled with familyWritten 7 July 2023
- Joachim PSaltsjobaden, Sweden867 contributionsGreat hike, but be prepared for bad weatherHiked up the mountain with my wife and it took 5 hrs and 40 minutes in total. Beautiful trail and scenery, but it was raining most of the way and the fog prevented us from enjoying any spectacular views. Also getting closer to the summit it started to get a wee bit cold and the wind was picking up. Even so, we very much enjoyed the hike and would warmly recommend it to anyone who is a bit adventurous at heart and reasonably fit. No need to get a tour guide since there is only one track leading up to the sunmit and it is difficult to get lost. Please bring rainwear as well as a hat and gloves and a rain cover for your backpack. You can do without all of that - in fact we met some locals wearing shorts - but great to have if you want to feel reasonably comfortable.Visited July 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 17 July 2023
- Chris N18 contributionsTallest Person in the UK For a Few Minutes.Last of the Three Peaks for us. Going up was ok, we started at 6:00am and climbed up through the clouds and were rewarded with beautiful sunshine. Got to the Trig at the summit and had it all to myself, until a fellow walker arrived to take my picture. Coming down is a real mission, it felt like forever, but the views were amazing. Get there early, avoid the crowds going up, smile and say hi to them on the your way down.Visited July 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 18 July 2023
- Peter Brian Wakefield9 contributionsBen Nevis MoanersNot for the disgruntled and not for the feint hearted. There is never 4G in areas of outstanding natural beauty for obvious reasons: the main reason being you’d have unsightly and untidy telecommunications masts everywhere in an area of outstanding natural beauty. And you can’t have masts in AONBs or National Parks such as the Peak District. You can’t have developments such as.McDonald’s or a supermarket on Ben Nevis, as it’ll be an eyesore in an area of outstanding natural beauty. You shouldn’t climb Ben Nevis at 4413 ft above the sea level if it’s too high to go up. If you feel giddy then take a tank of oxygen with you but keep away from camping stove and hot places. Ben Nevis is not for the feint hearted, and no developments are allowed on the mountain itself because environmentalists would hit the roof about it.Visited June 2023Travelled soloWritten 19 July 2023
- AdamGlenNoah-2Inverness, United Kingdom15 contributionsBe prepared…it’s a mountain!!!Have climbed Nevis two and a half times..once had to turn around due to poor weather. You see and hear every kind of idiot who think it’s a Sunday stroll when it just ain’t. Do your research people and reward yourself with a McDonalds when you get down, could have one quicker if you get a trip down with Mountain rescue.Visited September 2022Travelled with friendsWritten 19 July 2023
- Carl M2 contributionsBritain's best walkMy favourite walk in Britain. Particularly like leaving at 3/4am, it's the best time to go up. Peaceful, tranquil and enjoyable from top to bottom. Also the most fun thing in the world is walking back down and seeing all the people panting and blustering when they're 10% of the way up, asking if they're almost at the top yet. Brings me genuine joy. Please folks, remember this can be a dangerous environment and suitable shoes must be worn, water MUST be taken with you, and you WILL need food. It's imperative. Plus, a rainproof jacket and a fleece as the weather can change quickly!Visited February 2023Travelled soloWritten 21 July 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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4.5
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480
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79
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11
BaddoB
Plymouth, UK49 contributions
May 2023 • Family
Went up. Looked about. Came down again. Great time if you're stuck for things to do around Fort William, especially if you like climbing mountains or for a short period being able to say "I'm higher up than everyone else in the country".
The walk to the Red Burn was pretty easy, so even if you don't want to go the whole hog it's still a lovely walk to the Halfway Loch and Red Burn, with great views across the Nevis Valley to the mountains beyond.
The walk to the Red Burn was pretty easy, so even if you don't want to go the whole hog it's still a lovely walk to the Halfway Loch and Red Burn, with great views across the Nevis Valley to the mountains beyond.
Written 27 January 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Richard Curry
Canterbury, UK46 contributions
May 2023 • Couples
We walked up in May on a wonderful clear day, hot and sunny at the bottom, thick snow at the top. Wonderful. Do it for the views and the sense of achievement but not if you’re expecting solitude.
Written 19 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dr. Neubauer
Ingolstadt, Germany3 contributions
Nov 2023 • Friends
We went up to the summit of Ben Nevis and it was just great, however, pretty cold. It took us almost 4 hours up and 3 hours down, so be aware of the hard tour. One should start very early at about 8 a.m. beeing at the top at 12 and back at about 4 p.m. Than you can go to the Ben Nevis Inn which is very cosy and warm to have some food and perhaps a beer.
Written 6 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
MarymcI50
Derry, UK74 contributions
May 2023 • Family
Great climb, roughly 4 hours up and 3 & a half down.
Stunning views at the top, take plenty of snacks and water.
Stunning views at the top, take plenty of snacks and water.
Written 24 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Gerard S
1 contribution
Sept 2023 • Couples
Set off at 6am. Parked at the tourist centre car park. Was a steady climb. Got chatting to a few different walking groups on the way up which was nice. Then I sat down for a Mexican chicken sandwich at about 8am and a young lad lay on the floor near me and vommed all over my feet and bag. I moved my bag and went over to him to see if he was ok. He vommed on my legs/feet again. "Sorry, I had one too many last night" he says. He then goes on to tell me that he's doing the national 3 peaks. This is his first peak and that it's too hard. Clown.
We then carried on to the top. Where I somehow became the Ben Nevis resident photographer. Taking photographs for everyone. After taking pics with the trig for 4 different groups (having politely but begrudgingly accepted the last 3) a German group asked me. I said no but got handed their phone. I just put it on the floor and walked off.
On the way down, we jogged. Got to almost the bottom and we're on track to do it in under 6 hours, when the annual Ben Nevis race began and you couldn't move for people running at you. We stepped to one side to let them through. Knocked us to 6 hours 11 minutes.
Overall, a fantastic day, with fantastic weather, too much vom and annoying that we picked the race day. Would recommend. Just a shame it was littered with unprepared people, who are clearly going to fail at the national 3 or those climbing in stupid clothing and the moaning that they didn't know how hard it was.
We then carried on to the top. Where I somehow became the Ben Nevis resident photographer. Taking photographs for everyone. After taking pics with the trig for 4 different groups (having politely but begrudgingly accepted the last 3) a German group asked me. I said no but got handed their phone. I just put it on the floor and walked off.
On the way down, we jogged. Got to almost the bottom and we're on track to do it in under 6 hours, when the annual Ben Nevis race began and you couldn't move for people running at you. We stepped to one side to let them through. Knocked us to 6 hours 11 minutes.
Overall, a fantastic day, with fantastic weather, too much vom and annoying that we picked the race day. Would recommend. Just a shame it was littered with unprepared people, who are clearly going to fail at the national 3 or those climbing in stupid clothing and the moaning that they didn't know how hard it was.
Written 22 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
simonrowley
Huddersfield, UK6 contributions
May 2023 • Friends
Did as part of the national 3 peak challenge. Snow at a 1000 metres from the summit but brilliant up and down in 4 1/2 hrs great walk
Written 20 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
JM
Glasgow, UK140 contributions
Jun 2023 • Friends
"Do something for your 60th year," a mate said!! It's far from easy. The initial 2 hours hurts. Then you get into the climb. Strangers become friends.
It's 4 hours up and 5 hours down. Respect to those who do it quicker. A couple of stops. The views are superb.
The top was bleak and very wet with high winds that sting your face. Although the euphoria at the summit takes away the fact that you're wet through.
Preparation is key, good boots and good waterproofing.
It's 4 hours up and 5 hours down. Respect to those who do it quicker. A couple of stops. The views are superb.
The top was bleak and very wet with high winds that sting your face. Although the euphoria at the summit takes away the fact that you're wet through.
Preparation is key, good boots and good waterproofing.
Written 20 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Andy B
1 contribution
Nov 2022 • Friends
My god reading some if these reviews what a bunch of fairy's, you were aching, it was steep, there's wasn't services for you to rest your fairy wings at the top, yoj couldn't get great WiFi, sorry this isn't pamper world your climbing scotlands highest mountain not scaling a mole hill, these are the Highlands the clue is in the name, on the brightside the scottish government are looking into reducing the height and steepness, licencing taxis to hit you to the top and will aim to provide you all with a 3 course meal and a swift boot up your jacksy on the way down.
Written 19 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Gareth H
6 contributions
Nov 2022 • Friends
Didn't see a thing because of the incessant Scottish weather and broke both my knees permanently. 10/10 would recommend. Hope you like zig zags!
Written 13 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Harry S
Gainsborough23 contributions
Sept 2023 • Couples
As a beginner and never attempting this before We had no idea what to expect. Extremely difficult but achievable and very rewarding. Was very disappointed to see so much litter left by people!!
We would definitely recommend taking plenty of food and drink and lots of layers and warm clothes for when you get to the top as the temperature plummets!! No toilets along the way apart from the very bottom where the visitor centre is. If you want to park you will have to get there early as limited spaces. We ended up having to park in a lay-by nearby.
We would definitely recommend taking plenty of food and drink and lots of layers and warm clothes for when you get to the top as the temperature plummets!! No toilets along the way apart from the very bottom where the visitor centre is. If you want to park you will have to get there early as limited spaces. We ended up having to park in a lay-by nearby.
Written 5 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
How Mitch is it to go up been Nevis in a gondola per adult .
Kevin B
Stamford, UK61 contributions
It’s going to be difficult in a Gondola. A Helicopter 🚁 would be much better but would be much more expensive.
Sunil S
1 contribution
What is the best route in early July 2023 to go to Ben from The Lochs. Is day round-trip possible to do?
Sunil S
1 contribution
What is the best route (in early July 2023) to go to Ben from The Lochs. Is day round-trip possible to do?
Hi, I am planning to visit Fort william on 3 and 4 dec, and planning for a hike to Ben Nevis. Does anyone know of any group where I could join them?
Greeny1979
Stratford-upon-Avon, UK4 contributions
Can I walk it in trail trainers? I walked Snowdon in my walking boots but felt I would’ve been more comfortable in my trail trainers.
cleal5
Warwick, UK
Is it possible to climb Ben Nevis with our 22 month toddler? my husband and I are planning on going up Ben Nevis but we are taking our toddler to Scotland with us.
Sean w
Plymouth, UK58 contributions
Personaly I would say no there are some big boulders that have to be walked over, and it can get very slippery.
broughy81
Barnsley, UK22 contributions
Morning,
Sorry for asking this as it may seem a silly question to an experienced mountain climber. I'm moderately fit and would like to attempt Nevis in the next few weeks. My question is do you have to be super fit to complete it? Many thanks
Lance johnson
Rome, Italy63 contributions
You don’t have to be super fit but sensible.
Practice going up and down stairs. Stretch your Achilles and feet before you go.
When climbing, First don’t try to race other people. Take breaks appropriately. Realise you may take longer than the standard time.
Mindset is extremely important you must know you can do it. Otherwise you will give up.
Don’t carry anything too heavy. Bring snacks and water. Wear appropriate clothes (depends on weather on day).
Mary M
Glasgow, UK7 contributions
Hi, we are visiting Fort William next month and would like to visit Ben Nevis.
We don’t have any intention of reaching the summit because we are walking with our 4-year old, and while he has surprised us in the past with his capabilities, it’s still not something we feel ready to do.
However, we would still like walk part of it, and think a reasonable aim is to go half way (or just under).
My understanding is that there is a ‘halfway lake/lochan’ (albeit not quite half way!) but my question is if the pathway passes this in the distance, or if it’s a suitable place to stop and enjoy it at the loch side?
I can’t tell from the maps/photos if there’s is a reasonable/safe pathway down to the water.
Any info would be appreciated.
Thank you.
billybaird
Barrow-in-Furness, UK141 contributions
The path passes very close to the lake. We met a couple who camped there overnight before walking to the summit. You will have no problem stopping off there.
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Claim your listingBEN NEVIS: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)
Frequently Asked Questions about Ben Nevis
- According to Tripadvisor travellers, these are the best ways to experience Ben Nevis:
- Group Walk up Ben Nevis from Fort William (From £102.52)
- Ben Nevis Hiking Day Trip from Edinburgh (From £435.69)
- Private Tour of Ben Nevis from Fort William (From £410.06)
- Loch Ness and the Highlands Very Small Group Tour from Edinburgh (From £91.24)
- Loch Ness, Glen Coe & The Highlands Day Tour from Edinburgh (From £60.48)
- Hotels near Ben Nevis:
- (1.71 mi) Achintee Farm
- (2.53 mi) The Brevins Guest House
- (2.59 mi) Ben Nevis Guest House
- (1.68 mi) Glen Nevis Holidays
- (2.92 mi) Guisachan Guest House
- Restaurants near Ben Nevis:
- (1.63 mi) Ben Nevis Inn
- (1.34 mi) Glen Nevis Restaurant & Bar
- (3.17 mi) The Wildcat
- (3.22 mi) The Geographer
- (3.16 mi) Crannog Seafood Restaurant
- Attractions near Ben Nevis:
- (2.81 mi) Hunter Mountaineering
- (2.94 mi) The Highland Mountain Company
- (3.13 mi) Elite Guides
- (3.23 mi) Lochaber Guides - Private Day Tours
- (3.33 mi) Fort William Sea Tours