Ben Lomond is a mountain located in the Scottish Highlands, near the town of Rowardennan. It stands at a height of 974 meters (3,196 ft) and is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. The mountain offers breathtaking views of Loch Lomond and the surrounding countryside, and on a clear day, it is possible to see as far as the mountains of the Lake District in England. The summit can be reached via a number of different routes, including the popular Ptarmigan Ridge path and the more challenging South Ridge route. Ben Lomond is also home to a variety of wildlife, including red deer, golden eagles, and peregrine falcons.
I've seen lots of comments saying that it's the easiest Munro to hike. I don't have any comparison to the other munro's but I would say it's definitely a challenging hike. Mind, I'm not a regular hiker and not super fit either. I made it to the top nevertheless and it was absolutely worth it - but it wasn't easy ;) there's some really steep parts, partly steps, partly just rocks. In the middle of the hike you reach a really big plateau which gives you a chance to catch your breath for a little. Hiked up there at the beginning of April and there was still snow on top which was incredibly slippery - even with hiking boots. Just be mindful of that. The round trip took us exactly 6 hours (approx. 3h up, 2h down + breaks) and the weather changed a lot during the hike. So dress in layers and don't forget your rain jacket. 100% worth it. Incredible views from the top and also on the way - if you don't want to climb to the very top.
The morning air was crisp, and anticipation bubbled within me as I stood at the base of Ben Lomond. My first munro loomed above, its rugged slopes beckoning me to venture forth. I had heard tales of its steep ascent, but nothing could prepare me for the reality that awaited. The initial steps were deceptively gentle--a winding path through lush greenery, birdsong accompanying my every breath. But soon, the terrain shifted. The incline grew steeper, and my legs protested. Sweat dripped down my forehead, and I wondered if I'd made a grave mistake. Yet, stubborn determination fueled my resolve. I pressed on, one step at a time. As the forest thickened around me, the trail transformed. Roots snaked across the path, demanding attention. Rocks jutted out, challenging my balance. My lungs strained, and I questioned my sanity. But then, a glimpse through the foliage--a tantalizing view of Loch Lomond below. The water sparkled like a sapphire, framed by emerald hills. It was a moment of respite, a reminder of why I embarked on this journey. The ascent intensified. My thighs burned. Each switchback revealed a higher vantage point, and I marveled at the changing landscape. The trees thinned, revealing patches of heather and moss. The wind whispered secrets, and I listened, feeling small against the grandeur of nature. And then, the final push--a rocky scramble that tested both body and spirit. My heart raced as I pulled myself upward, fingers gripping cold stone. The summit teased me, obscured by mist. But as I emerged onto the peak, the world shifted. Clouds parted, unveiling a panorama that stole my breath away. Loch Lomond lay far below, its serpentine curves etching a memory in my mind. Islands dotted the water, like forgotten jewels. To the north, the Trossachs National Park sprawled--a patchwork quilt of hills and lochs. And there, beyond it all, the Highlands stretched into infinity--a wilderness waiting to be explored. I sank onto a boulder, legs trembling, and absorbed the view. The wind tousled my hair, and I felt alive--truly alive. The steep climb, the burning muscles--it had all led to this moment. I was a speck on Ben Lomond's shoulder, yet I held the world in my gaze. As I descended, knees wobbly, I knew I'd return. Ben Lomond had etched its mark on my soul. The steepness had tested my mettle, but the views--the glorious, humbling views--had made it worthwhile.
Path is very steep and rocky make sure you have hiking boots and poles great walk with the family and great veiws
Loved the location, stunning views and a good workout on the entire body! I personally made a boo boo and went left instead of following the path up to Ben Lomond and so ended up heading the West Highland Way. Hilarious at first, then absolutely scunnered with walking the wrong way. I ended up at Rowchoish Bothy - great wee pit stop! Advice to all that go by bus/waterbus, last boat over to Tarbet from Rowardrennan is 16:30 so it's important you plan for wrong turns as I ended up having to phone a friend to pick me up! Also make sure to pack midge repellant as they are insufferable if you pit stop for a snack !
Hiked up Ben Lomond... long hike up and down, but worth it for stunning views. Dress for weather and be prepared for quick changes in weather... walked through clouds/drizzle and blue skies with warm sunshine! Windy and cold at the top!
6 hour hike up and down. Fantastic day out. the snow at the top made for an interesting change. 1st munro dusted. Is the snow there al year or just sometimes? can someone let me know because i'd like to try it without snow. Not that i didn't like the snow but just to see if it was different. Thanks
Hiking
Public toilet
Kid-friendly hikes
Dogs allowed
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I've seen lots of comments saying that it's the easiest Munro to hike. I don't have any comparison to the other munro's but I would say it's definitely a challenging hike. Mind, I'm not a regular hiker and not super fit either. I made it to the top nevertheless and it was absolutely worth it - but it wasn't easy ;) there's some really steep parts, partly steps, partly just rocks. In the middle of the hike you reach a really big plateau which gives you a chance to catch your breath for a little. Hiked up there at the beginning of April and there was still snow on top which was incredibly slippery - even with hiking boots. Just be mindful of that. The round trip took us exactly 6 hours (approx. 3h up, 2h down + breaks) and the weather changed a lot during the hike. So dress in layers and don't forget your rain jacket. 100% worth it. Incredible views from the top and also on the way - if you don't want to climb to the very top.
The morning air was crisp, and anticipation bubbled within me as I stood at the base of Ben Lomond. My first munro loomed above, its rugged slopes beckoning me to venture forth. I had heard tales of its steep ascent, but nothing could prepare me for the reality that awaited. The initial steps were deceptively gentle--a winding path through lush greenery, birdsong accompanying my every breath. But soon, the terrain shifted. The incline grew steeper, and my legs protested. Sweat dripped down my forehead, and I wondered if I'd made a grave mistake. Yet, stubborn determination fueled my resolve. I pressed on, one step at a time. As the forest thickened around me, the trail transformed. Roots snaked across the path, demanding attention. Rocks jutted out, challenging my balance. My lungs strained, and I questioned my sanity. But then, a glimpse through the foliage--a tantalizing view of Loch Lomond below. The water sparkled like a sapphire, framed by emerald hills. It was a moment of respite, a reminder of why I embarked on this journey. The ascent intensified. My thighs burned. Each switchback revealed a higher vantage point, and I marveled at the changing landscape. The trees thinned, revealing patches of heather and moss. The wind whispered secrets, and I listened, feeling small against the grandeur of nature. And then, the final push--a rocky scramble that tested both body and spirit. My heart raced as I pulled myself upward, fingers gripping cold stone. The summit teased me, obscured by mist. But as I emerged onto the peak, the world shifted. Clouds parted, unveiling a panorama that stole my breath away. Loch Lomond lay far below, its serpentine curves etching a memory in my mind. Islands dotted the water, like forgotten jewels. To the north, the Trossachs National Park sprawled--a patchwork quilt of hills and lochs. And there, beyond it all, the Highlands stretched into infinity--a wilderness waiting to be explored. I sank onto a boulder, legs trembling, and absorbed the view. The wind tousled my hair, and I felt alive--truly alive. The steep climb, the burning muscles--it had all led to this moment. I was a speck on Ben Lomond's shoulder, yet I held the world in my gaze. As I descended, knees wobbly, I knew I'd return. Ben Lomond had etched its mark on my soul. The steepness had tested my mettle, but the views--the glorious, humbling views--had made it worthwhile.
Path is very steep and rocky make sure you have hiking boots and poles great walk with the family and great veiws
Loved the location, stunning views and a good workout on the entire body! I personally made a boo boo and went left instead of following the path up to Ben Lomond and so ended up heading the West Highland Way. Hilarious at first, then absolutely scunnered with walking the wrong way. I ended up at Rowchoish Bothy - great wee pit stop! Advice to all that go by bus/waterbus, last boat over to Tarbet from Rowardrennan is 16:30 so it's important you plan for wrong turns as I ended up having to phone a friend to pick me up! Also make sure to pack midge repellant as they are insufferable if you pit stop for a snack !
Hiked up Ben Lomond... long hike up and down, but worth it for stunning views. Dress for weather and be prepared for quick changes in weather... walked through clouds/drizzle and blue skies with warm sunshine! Windy and cold at the top!
6 hour hike up and down. Fantastic day out. the snow at the top made for an interesting change. 1st munro dusted. Is the snow there al year or just sometimes? can someone let me know because i'd like to try it without snow. Not that i didn't like the snow but just to see if it was different. Thanks