4,411 ft · Central Highlands, Scotland
Ben Nevis
Ben Nevis is a 4,411 ft peak in the Central Highlands, Scotland. The standard route is the Mountain Track: 10 mi, 4,440 ft of gain, Class 1.
Ben Nevis at a glance
- Elevation4,411 ft1,344 m
- RouteMountain TrackClass 1
- Distance10 mi4,440 ft gain
- Time8 – 10 hrsModerate effort
- SeasonJun – Sep
- RangeCentral HighlandsScotland
Climbing the Mountain Track
From Fort William, turn off the A82 at the Nevis Bridge roundabout onto the Glen Nevis road and start from the Glen Nevis Visitor Centre car park (pay and display). Cross the river footbridge and join the Mountain Track, which climbs past Lochan Meall an t-Suidhe and zigzags up the stony upper slopes. Class 1 on a built path, but the summit plateau is rough and edged by cliffs. Snow and cornices often linger into June, and in cloud you must follow a careful compass bearing off the top to avoid Five Finger Gully. Expect crowds and fast-changing weather. Start early and carry warm layers even in summer.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (30–40 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
- Low visibility
- High winds
- Cornices
- Snow near summit
- Cold summit conditions
Quests with Ben Nevis
MunrosPeaks near Ben Nevis
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Ben Nevis?
Ben Nevis is 4,411 feet (1,344 m) tall. It is in the Central Highlands, Scotland.
Is Ben Nevis the highest of the Munros?
Yes. At 4,411 feet, Ben Nevis is the tallest of the 282 Munros.
How hard is it to hike Ben Nevis?
The Mountain Track is Class 1, which means hiking on a trail. Yak rates the overall effort moderate: 10 miles with 4,440 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Ben Nevis?
Most people take 8 – 10 hours round trip on the Mountain Track, covering 10 miles with 4,440 feet of elevation gain. That is a long day, so start before dawn and set a turnaround time.
Can a beginner hike Ben Nevis?
Usually, if you are fit. The Mountain Track is a common first summit for hikers ready for 8 – 10 hours on their feet. Bring layers, food and water, and check the weather before you start.
When is the best time to hike Ben Nevis?
The usual hiking window is June 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 Nevis?
The Mountain Track starts at about 60 feet, roughly 4,351 feet below the summit.
Climb Ben Nevis 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