3,983 ft · Southern Highlands, Scotland
Ben Lawers
Ben Lawers is a 3,983 ft peak in the Southern Highlands, Scotland. The standard route is the Beinn Ghlas Path: 6 mi, 3,090 ft of gain, Class 1.
Ben Lawers at a glance
- Elevation3,983 ft1,214 m
- RouteBeinn Ghlas PathClass 1
- Distance6 mi3,090 ft gain
- Time5 – 7 hrsModerate effort
- SeasonMay – Sep
- RangeSouthern HighlandsScotland
Climbing the Beinn Ghlas Path
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) and take the built path up the Edramucky Burn and the southwest ridge of Beinn Ghlas, crossing its summit before a dip and a final sustained climb. Class 1. Return by the path around the western flank of Beinn Ghlas. Longer days continue over An Stuc, Meall Garbh and Meall Greigh. The high ridge is badly exposed to wind and cold. The car park often fills by mid-morning on summer weekends.
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
- Cold summit conditions
Quests with Ben Lawers
MunrosPeaks near Ben Lawers
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Ben Lawers?
Ben Lawers is 3,983 feet (1,214 m) tall. It is in the Southern Highlands, Scotland.
How does Ben Lawers rank among the Munros?
At 3,983 feet, Ben Lawers is the 10th highest of the 282 Munros. The highest is Ben Nevis.
How hard is it to hike Ben Lawers?
The Beinn Ghlas Path is Class 1, which means hiking on a trail. Yak rates the overall effort moderate: 6 miles with 3,090 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Ben Lawers?
Most people take 5 – 7 hours round trip on the Beinn Ghlas Path, covering 6 miles with 3,090 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Can a beginner hike Ben Lawers?
Usually, if you are fit. The Beinn Ghlas Path is a common first summit for hikers ready for 5 – 7 hours on their feet. Bring layers, food and water, and check the weather before you start.
When is the best time to hike Ben Lawers?
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 Ben Lawers?
The Beinn Ghlas Path starts at about 1,350 feet, roughly 2,633 feet below the summit.
Climb Ben Lawers 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