We get that it’s hard work coming up with original names for mountains, but seriously guys? I have climbed as early as Feb and as late as Oct and would say Sept is the best month. Regardless of whether you’re taking on the Three Peaks Challenge, it’s great to have that I’m-the-king-of-the-castle feeling of standing ontop of the highest point in the area, surveying your kingdom below you… I mean, the view. So, is it easy to climb Ben Nevis? The navigation is generally very easy and the weather conditions are just like Ben Nevis and Snowdon. > Check out our full guide to the best hiking in Scotland. Plus, the Ledge Route is considered a one way route by almost everyone. The starting point for Ben Nevis is the Visitors Centre where you can receive up to date information on the conditions at the summit of Ben Nevis. Alternatively, if you’re having a very good day, you could complete a horseshoe by descending via the CMD Arete. When I think of Scotland, I tend to think of haggis, Edinburgh and Ben Nevis. Spend the weekend in the Grampian Mountains. However, if you decide to climb Ben Nevis via other routes, there are some discussions to have. However, since we don’t want to do any rock climbing, avoid Number Five and make your way onto the ridgeline. There is a good balance between weather and congestion (yes the mountain can get busy). Head up to where the contouring path from Achintee House meets the one you’re on. The same cairns that guided you to the peak of Ben Nevis will assist you on the wa… It is a short walk between the summits of CDM and CMD. We’ll guide you through them one by one. The route up Ben Nevis is longer than the Mountain Path and can be made into a long horseshoe shaped walk if you want. The top trig point and observatory is just to the left of the last cairn. Whatever you call it, this is the easiest route up Ben Nevis – but that doesn’t mean it’s easy. LOTS of water! Although can you really call it a rhyme if it’s the same word? Skip to two minutes in the video for the start of the scramble and to 4:58 for the kind of route finding problems you’ll be facing. The best time to go is in the summer - July, when it's sunny.The midges are not usually too bad on Ben Nevis itself but they canbe horrific on the lower slopes, better add insect repellent tothat list!Start the walk at the Youth Hostel in Glen Nevis. We’re your starting point, but from here it’s up to you to find out the details of the route and get yourself there and back safely. You’re past your last signpost: here be mountains. The experience in each of the seasons will be quite different ! Climb Ben Nevis Weekend. Follow your bearing or, on a clear day, the line of cairns up to the summit. The mountain is located at the western wide of the Grampian Mountain range in Scottish Highlands. We pushed through the psychological “wall" a couple of times and kept going by reminding each other of why we were doing it and what it meant to our supporters and the BHF. You cannot go back down the mountain the way you came. When to Walk and How Long will it Take? There's a lot to choose from, so we've listed some of the best hikes in Scotland, from the West Highland Way to Ben Nevis. It be ok though it will challenge you. This is yet another scramble, this time climbing Ben Nevis via the Ledge Route on the North Face and up to Carn Dearg (1221) and along to the summit. To begin with, if you have fair skin you might want to consider bringing sun cream and sunglasses to avoid getting burned or dazzled by the sun. But it’s very easy to stray into ground that’s much more difficult than Grade 1, if you’re not sure of the precise route. The route starts from the CIC Hut and so can be started proper from either Glen Nevis or the North Face Car Park. Do not rely on them as your sole form of navigation in the mountains. You really need local knowledge based on the forecast at the time. Distance to the Top: 9km (5.5 miles) Ascent: 1280m (4200ft) Rough … This is the hill visible from the Ben Nevis Visitor Centre, often mistaken for Ben Nevis itself! Your scramble route tops out on Carn Dearg (meaning “Red Cairn” in Gaellic). The average time taken to climb Ben Nevis is 7-9 hours, with the climb to the top taking around 4 hours, and the return 3 hours. Climbing Ben Nevis is relatively easy if you take the tourist footpath in summer. We’ve assumed summer (aka not snow!) Cross the road and then a wooden bridge over the River Nevis. Park at the North Face carpark on the north side of Ben Nevis. Everything you need to know to cheat in a pub quiz about Annapurna I - the deadliest mountain in the world, on the Annapurna massif in the Himalayas. Carry on up the gully and then round the swooping bend in the path. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. After I sent him an email the owner Connor actually rang me and asked if I knew what I was getting into. The CMD arete is a narrow, rocky ridge that curves down from Carn Mor Dearg and then up to Ben Nevis. Thousands of people climb the UK’s highest mountain every year on a number of different routes. They came back with Atlas Mountaineering. It’s the best preparation in England for Ben Nevis, so if it’s your local mountain you’ve got an ideal practice ground ahead of climbing Ben Nevis. Again, start at the North Face Car Park near Torlundy. With nearly 120 years of climbing history, ground breaking routes and legendary stories of bravery on the cliffs throughout, the mountain is steeped in history. Ben Nevis from Glen Nevis. The peak of Ben Nevis is accessible by a number of routes from a stroll up the simple pony track to ice climb’s up it’s fearsome north face. I have climbed as early as Feb and as late as Oct and would say Sept is the best month. The Ledge Route is the least well trodden of these three routes up Ben Nevis. It’s a little longer, but less steep. This is the best route for summiting Ben Nevis without the need for climbing equipment or extensive previous mountaineering experience. Zoom in to see updated info. Here’s the dangerous bit in poor weather: it’s very easy to wander off the edge of a cliff to your right. It is also possible to do the CMD from the ski centre carpark and cut across to the main path. Now, as with all of our route guides, remember these are just that: guides. The highest mountain in the UK is Ben Nevis, in Scotland, clocking in at 1345m above sea level. Hi,it’s mine and my husbands 40th’s next year and as well as a lot of other things planned we’d... Can you take a donkey to the summit with you ? And it's a long slog, about 5-6 hours. You might also like Scrambling in the UK | A Quick Adventure Guide. It’s the same grade of scrambling as the CMD Arete and is technically a more direct route to the summit from the North Face. Descending Ben Nevis in summer generally takes around 2½ hours to 3½ hours. Ben Nevis is significantly taller than the tallest mountain in England, Scafell Pike at 978m, and the tallest mountain in Wales, Snowdon at 1085m. It’s been estimated that over 150,000 people climb Ben Nevis every year, and most people take the recommended Tourist Path (also known as the Ben Nevis Mountain Track or Pony Track) and climb between the months of May and October. Alternatively, you can continue below Carn Beag Dearg until a boggy path cuts off left. How long it takes to climb Ben Nevis really depends on how fit you are and how many breaks you take but a rough guide is it will take you around 3½ - 4½ hours to climb it via the Mountain Track in summer under reasonable weather conditions. There are loads of climbing routes that top out on this cliff, so little paths might not always lead you in the direction you’re hoping! The 1-day summer ascent can be done from June to August. We are expecting to start climbing to The summit at 2pm, will We be able to come back till dark... where is the best place to start the walk after parking the car is it ben nevis inn. So factor this in when planning your trip. There is a nice big cairn (abseil point) at the end of the CMD. This is what this article is about: helping you to choose a route, plan your trip, and reach the summit of Ben … There are two hiking routes up to the summit of Ben Nevis: the Mountain Track (also known as the Tourist Track or Pony Track) which is the most popular and best for non-professional climbers, and Carn Mor, the harder route for more experienced climbers. Although it is only a Grade 1 scramble, the ridgeline is very exposed. The path becomes narrower and more rocky here. Our guide to climbing Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the United Kingdom at 1345m. Start from Glen Nevis Youth Hostel. The main route up the UK’s highest peak is long, dull and monotonous. It’s far safer to take a bearing (there’s a reason the bearings are even printed on the Ben Nevis map). So I would say if the weather is good and there is little or no snow. While this can be a great challenge, it is also tough-going and dangerous for newcomers to hiking. Most of the ice has melted by this point, the weather is calmer and you have much better visibility. You should be comfortable walking on loose boulders with a drop either side. We’ll provide you with two nights of accommodation with breakfast included at a hostel in the heart of the Grampians. Height Gained – 1300 metres, Distance – 8 km, Time –4-5 hours – ONE WAY ONLY. Finally, the path approaches the plateau – you’re still going uphill, but by comparison it’s flat! Now for the scramble ridge itself. Extra Layers (Warm Clothes) Waterproof/Windproof Jacket. Bare in mind the weather wind rain snow etc is a different world up there, especially when you get it wrong. However, it’s easy to accidentally find yourself in the middle of a rock climbing route if you don’t know where you’re going. If you’re going to do this, look the route up in detail – you don’t want to accidentally find yourself on a rock climb. You might also need extra equipment, like crampons and an ice axe (usually provided by your certified guide). You should be ok if the weather's good. Arrive the night before you attempt to complete the Climb Ben Nevis Challenge, and relax knowing that you won’t have far to go after the challenge is done. Then it’s just a small hike up the remaining slope to the summit of Ben Nevis. It was a fantastic experience to attempt Ben Nevis, and whilst we didn't quite make the peak we are all very satisfied that we gave it our very best effort. invites and other weird and wonderful stuff. 2½ - 3½ hours. Going between June-September will severely reduce your risk of extreme weather conditions. Home schooling? Just after a small bridge, the path turns sharply into the valley containing the Red Burn, climbing more steeply to Lochain Meall an t-Suidhe. Descending Ben Nevis is relatively straight forward; you go back the way you came. For really low visibility, ensure you know how to take a bearing with your map and compass. By far the most common route up Ben Nevis is the Mountain Track. You will have incredible views of the north face of Ben Nevis the whole way. You’re comparing it to scrambles and climbs. Obviously it will be cooler in September, just make sure you dress in layers. The normal time taken to climb to the top by the tourist path is three and a half to five hours - coming down is much faster, between one and a half to two and a half hours. Climbing Ben Nevis: Finding a Guide. But that’s probably a bit nuts and you might not have time left before it gets dark. I would say july-august is best. Even in summer, Ben Nevis can be very cold, wet, windy and covered in snow; and remember, it will get colder and windier the higher you climb. At first, we found the path easy, and steadily climbing we left the glen behind. Distance to the Top: 9km (5.5 miles)Ascent: 1390m (4550ft)Rough Time to the Top: 4.5 hours at leastFlavour: Spicy. At this point, there is a right hand turn that takes you on a good path back down to the North Face carpark. We started our climb at 9 am. Also be aware that it is a strenuous climb and decent (we thought that the decent was tougher on the legs), ensure that you've got a "tough" 10 year old! Suncream – Yep, i’m not joking. The perfect time to enjoy the spectacular views from the peak! Ben Nevis, although not as high as the mountains in the Himalayas does get snow on the top during the winter months. We also had a v experienced climbing group, fully equipped for any weather. This will take you across the lower slopes of CBD and then up to the summit of Carn Dearg Meadhonach. If you lose your bearings on the summit, head from the trig to the stone pillar and head left along the edge of the gully. The descent from the summit back to your starting point will normally take approx. A glen is essentially a valley with a river running down it, so funnily enough the River Nevis runs below Ben Nevis. Don’t be fooled by the weather conditions down in Fort William, it will be very different on the upper slopes of Ben Nevis, so make sure you take warm and waterproof clothes including hat and gloves. Ben Nevis is located in the Scottish Highlands, close to the town of Fort William. Ben Nevis can be explored during winter or summer. The CMD ridge itself is a grade one scramble in the summer. Is this a good time of year to do it? However, if you’re interested in winter mountains, check out How to Stay Safe in the UK’s Winter Mountains or better still sign up to Climb Ben Nevis in Winter. We reckon Shakespeare would probably get away with it. How to Stay Safe in the UK’s Winter Mountains, Scrambling in the UK | A Quick Adventure Guide, How to See the Northern Lights in Iceland | A Guide, 14 Adventures to Fuel Your New Year's Resolutions, Dust off the Wanderlust: 11 New Adventures for 2021. Going hiking in Scotland? The scrambling of the Ledge Route is Grade 1 in summer, significantly easier than everything else around it. A big day out, but one you’ll certainly remember. This is not to be confused with Carn Dearg some 2km away on the other side of Ben Nevis. Furthermore, in November the days are pretty short - much shorter in Scotland than they are in London - so it unlikely you will be able to complete the walk in daylight - so take a good torch and get some practice walking in the hills in the dark. Ben Nevis Walk Time. When we got to the top the weather was atrocious and I got quite cold so we put up an emergency shelter. Not to be confused with the next peak along, Carn Mor Dearg, which gives our scramble route its name. Get weekly inspiration, positive stories, exclusive community It goes without saying that it’s also the highest mountain in Scotland and therefore one of the mountains in the famous Three Peaks Challenge. It stands at the western end of the Grampian Mountains in the Lochaber area. Go to the visitors’ centre for up to date information. What training do you need to do to climb Ben Nevis? All the time you’re still plodding relentlessly uphill. For beginners, the best time to climb Ben Nevis is during the summer and autumn. The Novice Walker should not attempt to walk up Ben Nevis between November and May, or during bad or cloudy weather. You will; therefore, need to prepare for all weather. Pick up the good path beside the river (on the east side) and follow it for several kilometres into the bowl of the mountains, between Ben Nevis and the Carns. If you want something a little more hands on and exciting than the Mountain Path, then the Carn Mor Dearg Arete might be the route for you. From the North Face car park, head out of the forest along tracks heading roughly south. You’ll cross some little streams and then be treated to a series of zig-zags: there are nine in total and you will probably count them. We planned to make an early start but the weather was awful so stayed in bed for a few extra hours then started our ascent about 11am which is fine during a long summer’s day. On a clear day, you can enjoy views across the whole of the Scottish Highlands. From the CIC Hut, head up through the boulders towards the infamous Number Five Gully. Get quick answers from Ben Nevis staff and past visitors. And the winter ascents, during November to April. Either take the Mountain Path and turn at the lochan (as described in the CMD Route) or take it the whole way down into Glen Nevis. Very hard going, shale most of way, wear walking boots not trainers etc, make sure u take wet weather gear also, the weather can change in an instant. more. Take the right kit, don't do it in plimsolls like I did, I'm sure you will be fine. The route used to climb Ben Nevis is the Mountain Track. The first ascent of the Ben's first recorded route, … To return, you could reverse your route and scramble all the way back again along the CMD. No routes up Ben Nevis tick that box, so they decided the route needed some rebranding. Your best route of descent is probably back the way you came. The winter ascentincreases in difficulty. It has a summit of 1,345 metres (4,413 ft) above sea level. From ice climbing and winter walking on Ben Nevis, rock climbing in Glen Nevis, skiing at Nevis Range, mountain biking in the woods, hillwalking in Glencoe, sea kayaking on the west coast and river kayaking, we can do it all at this time of year in Lochaber, the Outdoor Capital of the UK. You must be prepared to turn back if necessary and leave it for another day. Possible if the North Face carpark is shut, but a bit out of your way really. I emailed the hotel I was staying at (The Lime Tree) and asked for a recommendation.. One for a nice day! Almost sounds poetic doesn’t it? You’ll soon reach the prominent path. You can learn winter skills and summit Ben Nevis or check out our UK hiking holidays for other peaks to climb and trails to hike. Don’t cross, but instead follow the river uphill along its eastern bank on a decent path. For routes up Ben Nevis see h100 Ben Nevis via The Tourist Path from Achintee, Fort William Ready to reach Ben Nevis? weather conditions. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in United Kingdom. The maps we’ve embedded are only a rough outline too. In July, 8am is a good time - 7am is better. The path is wide, well made and clearly marked with wooden signposts down here. At this point, you can choose to go off-piste and up the broad nose of Carn Beag Dearg, then along the peaks to the start of the CMD scramble. You should reach a large river: Allt a’Mhuillinn. Follow the paths out of the forest and onwards to reach the river Allt a’Mhuillinn. Again it’s worth taking a bearing. I am thinking of doing it middle of September with my son who is 10. ° How much it cost to download the 59 walks that climb all 214 Wainwrights? Skip to about 3:35 in the video to get a feel for it! September is possibly the best time to do Ben Nevis. As I was travelling solo I decided to find a guide to help me in climbing Ben Nevis – thank goodness. Ben Nevis via the Ledge Route. It takes around 4 hours to climb to the top, and 3 hours to get down afterward. Or indeed Carn Mor Dearg (yes, that’s “Big Red Cairn”). An alternative would be to descend down the Mountain Path until the lochan. From here, walk south until you join up with the Mountain Path and follow it up to the summit of Ben Nevis. Good luck. – Take at least 2 litres of water with you! You could start your walk from the other end of that path, if you preferred. There is a good balance between weather and congestion (yes the mountain can get busy). If you want to climb Ben Nevis, there are three main routes people take. September is possibly the best time to do Ben Nevis. When is the best time to walk up Ben Nevis. Hi there, that's hard for me to answer as the only time I've climbed it has been in August. Ben Nevis via the Ledge Route. At this junction, head right and continue curving round and ever up the hill in front of you. Ben Nevis has several different trails that can be taken, each trail will have a different completion time. Keep going, crossing little streams dropping from the slopes above, until the path stops at the CIC Hut. Map updates are paused. Here are five essentials you need to put in your backpack when hiking Ben Nevis: First Aid Kit – at least a basic one with some blister plasters. Climbing Ben Nevis when there is snow on the ground or the weather is less than ideal is an entirely different ball game and you should allow up to 8 hours (or more) for the ascent. It’s known as the CMD Arete, or even just the CMD for short, because let’s face it – it’s pretty hard for most of us to pronounce Scottish place names convincingly! I know it’s none of my business, but I can’t help wondering why your son isn’t in school mid-September? ! Startearly. Distance to the Top: 9km (5.5 miles)Ascent: 1280m (4200ft)Rough Time to the Top: 3 hours at leastFlavour: Sweet and Sour. Spring, summer and autumn months are the best times to climb Ben Nevis as long as you are fully prepared for the weather conditions. Ken Crocket and Simon Richardson's book Ben Nevisis an excellent and inspiring chronicle of the highlights of these many adventures through the ages as the sport, culture, standards and approaches to climbing have evolved. Pic 6 – Lochain Meall an t-Suidhe, “the halfway lochain”. Ben Nevis is the tallest mountain in both Scotland and the British Isles. You should have a view out over the lochan (which is essentially a Scottish tarn) to your left as the path curves round the top of the gully and back on the ascent up Ben Nevis. If you climb Ben Nevis in June or July you may well find that you’re in summer at the base and in winter at the summit! This used to be known at the Tourist Track by pretty much everyone, but that kind of implied an easy dawdle along a tarmaced track in your flipflops. The weather conditions can include strong winds, freezing temperatures and thick snow. Ben Nevis, in Fort William, Scotland, is the highest mountain in the UK, standing tall at 1,345m. 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