Highlight • Trail
Beinn Ghlas
Hiking
5.0
(152)
Running
5.0
(2)
Mountain biking
5.0
(1)
Plenty of hikers pass over Beinn Ghlas without realising, so intent are they on summit Ben Lawers and ticking this neighbouring Munro off. Beinn Ghlas stands at 3,619 feet (1,103 m) though, a mere 364 feet (111 m) lower than Lawers. If you’re up for a big Munro day, Beinn Ghlas can not only lead you to Lawers but on to Meall Garbh as well.
Mighty views with a modest reputation
Part of the majestic Ben Lawers National Nature Reserve, hiking trails up Beinn Ghlas take you past unusual arctic flora and hundreds of types of lichen. Your botanic eye might not be keen enough to tell such plants apart but there’s plenty of more gregarious life to watch out for. Ptarmigan, black grouse and ring ouzels can be spied on this mountain.
A common starting point is the National Trust for Scotland car park to the south west of Beinn Ghlas. From here you’ll walk upwards through the reserve, past heather and birch trees. Previously suffering erosion from many intrepid hikers, the National Trust has since restored the path and it’s a pleasure to walk.
You’ll find a small cairn and plateau at Beinn Ghlas’ summit but it’s not particularly obvious. It’s a perfect opportunity to pause, snack, admire the views and tick a Munro off your list.
Campsites and hotels are scattered along Loch Tay’s shores while Killin is the nearest settlement.
Tips
February 17, 2023
Hiking
Beinn Ghlas can be bypassed either in ascent or descent via a path that contours around its northern flanks. It's also possible to link Beinn Ghlas to Meall Corranaich to the northwest.
April 18, 2022
Hiking
October 31, 2022
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Beinn Ghlas
4.9
(161)
1,552
hikers
11.5km
04:22
810m
810m
Embark on the Ben Lawers Trail, a moderate hike that takes you through a varied mountainous landscape, offering extensive views across Loch Tay to the south. This route covers 7.1 miles (11.5 km) with an elevation gain of 2656 feet (810 metres), typically taking about 4 hours and 21 minutes to complete. As you ascend towards the summit, you will encounter a network of burns and streams, regenerating native woodland, and a unique 'lunar landscape' near the top.
You will typically begin your hike from the National Trust for Scotland car park, which offers a convenient starting point for your ascent. Be aware that conditions on the Ben Lawers Trail can change quickly, especially in winter. During colder months, the route transforms into a serious mountaineering challenge, requiring specialized gear such as crampons and ice axes due to potential ice and deep snowdrifts. Plan your visit carefully and check forecasts before you go.
This trail is situated within the Ben Lawers National Nature Reserve, an area renowned for its high peaks and unique alpine flora. On a clear day, as you gain elevation, you might even be able to spot the distant Cairngorms. The reserve's diverse environment, from its regenerating woodlands to its high-altitude 'lunar landscape', makes it a significant natural heritage site in Scotland.
4.9
(158)
1,450
hikers
13.1km
05:03
950m
950m
Embark on a challenging 8.1-mile (13.1 km) hike through the Scottish Highlands, bagging two Munros with a total elevation gain of 3126 feet (953 metres). This difficult loop, typically taking around 5 hours and 2 minutes, offers varied terrain from well-maintained paths to rocky sections requiring some scrambling, especially towards the summit of Ben Lawers. From the top of Ben Lawers, you'll enjoy extensive panoramic views over Loch Tay and the surrounding mountains, while Meall Corranaich provides spectacular vistas back towards the Ben Lawers range and across Glen Lyon.
To prepare for this demanding route, start from the Ben Lawers National Trust for Scotland car park, which already gives you a significant head start at around 400-450 metres elevation. You will need good fitness, sure-footedness, and sturdy waterproof boots, as some sections can be boggy. Be aware that the difficulty increases considerably in snowy conditions or poor visibility, making careful navigation essential. There are also potential escape routes available if weather conditions deteriorate.
This loop is a popular way to conquer Ben Lawers, the highest peak in the Southern Highlands and the tenth highest Munro in Scotland, along with Meall Corranaich. The area is internationally significant for its rich biodiversity, particularly its rare Alpine flowers and diverse lichen flora, making it a treat for nature enthusiasts. Many parts of the trail feature incredibly well-maintained paths, a notable advantage in the Scottish mountains, ensuring a more pleasant journey through this dramatic landscape.
5.0
(2)
65
hikers
25.5km
11:20
1,980m
1,980m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 1,050 m
Good to know
Family Friendly
yes
Wheelchair access
no
Dog Friendly
yes
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