3,619 ft · Southern Highlands, Scotland
Beinn Ghlas
Beinn Ghlas is a 3,619 ft peak in the Southern Highlands, Scotland. The standard route is the Southwest Ridge from Ben Lawers NNR: 4 mi, 2,200 ft of gain, Class 1.
Beinn Ghlas at a glance
- Elevation3,619 ft1,103 m
- RouteSouthwest Ridge from Ben Lawers NNRClass 1
- Distance4 mi2,200 ft gain
- Time3 – 5 hrsEasy effort
- SeasonMay – Sep
- RangeSouthern HighlandsScotland
Climbing the Southwest Ridge from Ben Lawers NNR
From Killin, drive east on the A827 along Loch Tay and turn up the signed hill road towards Glen Lyon. Start from the Ben Lawers NNR car park (National Trust for Scotland, parking charge for non-members), walk through the interpretation area and cross the road onto the path. It follows the Edramucky Burn through a fenced flora reserve, then zigzags up the southwest ridge above Coire Odhar to the summit. Class 1 on a built path. Almost always climbed on the way to Ben Lawers. The ridge is high and very exposed, so carry warm layers. Expect crowds on summer weekends and arrive early for parking.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (25–35 L)
Hiking Boots
Water
Offline Maps
Headlamp
Satellite Communicator
Whistle
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Sun Hat
Midlayer
Insulated Jacket
Hardshell Jacket
Warm Hat
Buff
Midweight Gloves
Trekking Poles
GPS Device
Power Bank
Water Filter
First-Aid Kit
Emergency Bivy
What to watch for
- High winds
- Low visibility
- Rapid weather shifts
Quests with Beinn Ghlas
MunrosPeaks near Beinn Ghlas
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Beinn Ghlas?
Beinn Ghlas is 3,619 feet (1,103 m) tall. It is in the Southern Highlands, Scotland.
How does Beinn Ghlas rank among the Munros?
At 3,619 feet, Beinn Ghlas is the 47th highest of the 282 Munros. The highest is Ben Nevis.
How hard is it to hike Beinn Ghlas?
The Southwest Ridge from Ben Lawers NNR is Class 1, which means hiking on a trail. Yak rates the overall effort easy: 4 miles with 2,200 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Beinn Ghlas?
Most people take 3 – 5 hours round trip on the Southwest Ridge from Ben Lawers NNR, covering 4 miles with 2,200 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Can a beginner hike Beinn Ghlas?
Usually, if you are fit. The Southwest Ridge from Ben Lawers NNR is a common first summit for hikers ready for 3 – 5 hours on their feet. Bring layers, food and water, and check the weather before you start.
When is the best time to hike Beinn Ghlas?
The usual hiking window is May to September. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.
What is the trailhead elevation for Beinn Ghlas?
The Southwest Ridge from Ben Lawers NNR starts at about 1,350 feet, roughly 2,269 feet below the summit.
Climb Beinn Ghlas with Yak
Plan your route on a topo map, check the summit forecast, then log your climb and see what is left on your list