About Ben Nevis

Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in the British Isles, standing at 1,345 meters above sea level. Located in the Scottish Highlands near Fort William, it attracts over 150,000 walkers annually.

Routes to the Summit

Multiple routes are available to reach the summit. Choose based on your experience and fitness level.

Mountain Track (Tourist Path)

Moderate

The most popular route up Ben Nevis, also known as the Pony Track. A well-maintained path that zigzags up the western side of the mountain.

17km (10.5mi)
1352m ascent
7.5 hours
Starting Point: Glen Nevis Visitor Centre (PH33 6ST)
Route Notes: Well-maintained path with good waymarking. Can be busy in summer. Watch for weather changes at the summit.
Seasonal Notes: Winter: Requires winter mountaineering skills, ice axe and crampons essential. Summit plateau can be dangerous in poor visibility.

CMD Arête via Carn Mòr Dearg

Hard

A longer, more challenging route involving a spectacular narrow arête ridge. One of the finest ridge walks in the UK.

19km (11.8mi)
1500m ascent
9 hours
Starting Point: North Face Car Park (PH33 6ST)
Route Notes: Involves scrambling and exposure on the arête. Not suitable for inexperienced walkers. Requires good head for heights.
Seasonal Notes: Winter: Serious mountaineering route. Grade I/II winter climb. Full winter equipment and experience essential.

History

The first recorded ascent was in 1771 by botanist James Robertson. The mountain's name comes from the Gaelic "Beinn Nibheis" meaning "malicious mountain" or "mountain with its head in the clouds". A meteorological observatory operated on the summit from 1883 to 1904.

Fun Facts & Interesting Information

  • Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in the British Isles
  • The summit plateau is the collapsed dome of an ancient volcano
  • Snow can remain on the mountain year-round
  • The famous Ben Nevis Race has been held since 1895
  • The first car was driven to the summit in 1911

Nearby Places

Fort William (7 miles)
Glen Nevis
Steall Falls
Cow Hill

Facilities & Amenities

Visitor Centre
Car Park at Glen Nevis
Mountain rescue post
Information boards

Nearby Restaurants & Food

Ben Nevis Inn
Glen Nevis Restaurant
Nevisport Cafe