The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Ben Nevis And Glen Coe

Embark on the Ben Nevis Mountain Path, a difficult hike that takes you to the summit of the UK's highest peak. This challenging route covers 10.1 miles (16.3 km) and involves a significant elevation gain of 4303 feet (1312 metres), typically requiring 6 hours and 21 minutes to complete. As you ascend, the path gradually transforms from a clear track to a rockier, more rugged terrain, offering views across Glen Nevis towards the impressive Mamores. You will pass the tranquil Lochan Meall an t-Suidhe, often known as the 'Halfway Lochan', before continuing your climb. The upper sections become rough and stony, traversing boulders and scree as you zig-zag towards the top. On a clear day, the summit rewards you with expansive 360-degree panoramic views.

Before you set out, be aware that weather conditions on Ben Nevis can change very quickly. The summit is often much colder than the base, even during summer months, so pack appropriate layers. Poor visibility can make navigation challenging on the vast and featureless upper mountain plateau; cairns are there to help guide your way. Always check the forecast before you begin your hike and plan your start time to allow ample daylight for the full duration of the route.

This trail is notable as the most popular and straightforward route to the top of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in Scotland and the entire United Kingdom. The mountain itself is an ancient volcano, though its current form is largely shaped by glacial erosion. The path offers a unique opportunity to experience the dramatic scale of the Scottish Highlands, from the lower glens to the exposed, high-altitude environment of the summit plateau. It is a classic Scottish hiking experience.

The Lost Valley trail begins with a descent to the River Coe, often using steel stairs to reach a bridge, before you climb steeply into the Alt Coire Gabhail river valley. You will navigate rugged, rocky paths, sections requiring easy scrambling, and boulder fields, passing ancient birch woods and cascading waterfalls. This difficult hike covers 3.3 miles (5.3 km) with 946 feet (288 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking 1 hour and 43 minutes to complete. The valley itself is a hidden, emerald-green expanse of grass and house-sized boulders, surrounded by the towering ridges of Gearr Aonach and Beinn Fhada.

This route is considered difficult and demands good physical fitness, sure-footedness, and sturdy hiking shoes. Its

Embark on a challenging hike through the Bidean nam Bian and Stop Coire Sgreamhach loop, a difficult route covering 7.2 miles (11.6 km) with a significant 3759 feet (1146 metres) of elevation gain. This strenuous journey typically takes around 5 hours and 12 minutes to complete, leading you past beautiful waterfalls and up steep sections of scree and rocky crests. As you ascend, you will encounter some easy rock-scrambling, eventually reaching panoramic views of the Glencoe peaks and the Ben Nevis range on clear days. The trail offers a dramatic experience, with the iconic Aonach Eagach ridge often visible in the distance.

This demanding route is best suited for experienced hillwalkers with a good level of fitness. Be prepared for varied terrain, including boulder fields and potentially loose ground, especially during the descent through the Lost Valley. While the trail is accessible, it is not recommended in winter or snowy conditions unless you have specialist gear and experience, as certain sections can retain snow and ice into early summer. Always check local conditions before you head out.

The Bidean nam Bian loop is notable for including two Munros, Bidean nam Bian itself, which is the highest point in Argyll, and Stob Coire Sgreamhach. You will also explore the unique and dramatic hidden glen known as the Lost Valley, or Coire Gabhail, a place steeped in local lore where the river mysteriously disappears underground. This trail offers close-up views of the famous Three Sisters of Glencoe, making it a significant mountaineering challenge in one of Scotland's most iconic landscapes.