Ben Lawers and Beinn Ghlas

The Ben Lawers mountain range is situated on the north side of Loch Tay.  The highest peak is 3,984 feet – so close to 4,000 feet that in the nineteenth century a huge cairn was built to try and edge it up there! Ben Lawers is the highest peak in Perthshire and the tenth highest Munro in the land.

There is no public transport to Ben Lawers but the car park is sufficiently high altitude that beginning here gives you a nice head start on the ascent.  A popular walk, the route crosses another Munro – Beinn Ghlas – and, including some steep rocky stretches, follows a clear path to the summit.  

Once you’ve peaked, you may be forgiven for feeling on top of the world, with a view of Loch Tay and its environs stretching out below your well-worn boots.

The high elevation and exposure of this hike recommend that you come equipped for changeable weather conditions.  Part of the Ben Lawers National Nature Reserve, the area is noted for its rare alpine and arctic plants.

Nearest Town: Killin
Distance: 11km / 6.75 miles
Time: 4-6 hours
Ascent: 942m
Starting point: Ben Lawers car park
Photo credit: Graeme Gatherer