Ben Lomond

About Ben Lomond

Ben Lomond has to be one of the most popular and familiar mountains in the Scottish Highlands. It rises from the east shores of Loch Lomond to an elevation of 974 m (3,196 ft) and offers wonderful walking and scenic views across the loch itself and the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.

Most visitors take the tourist path, beginning at Rowardennan, to ascend to the summit. This is clearly marked and fairly easy to climb in fine weather, being paved roughly in the steeper areas. However, like any mountain, inexperienced walkers should avoid an ascent in poor weather conditions.

The next most commonly used trail is known as the Ptarmigan path and a third begins in Gleann Dubh. Ben Lomond’s name means Beacon Mountain and it can be seen from Ben Nevis, over 64 km (40 mi) away. Ben Lomond’s summit is craggy and grass-covered, marked with a triangulation pillar.

The mountain’s upper reaches provide a suitable climate for an alpine tundra habitat and is a major draw for bird watchers who come to view species such as rock ptarmigans, golden eagles and merlins.