Ben Nevis - Scottish Highlands

Hiking Ben Nevis: An Adventure Up Scotland's Highest Peak

If you’re thinking about taking on Ben Nevis, the tallest mountain in the UK, you’re in for a treat. At 1,345 meters (4,413 feet), Ben Nevis stands proudly near Fort William in the gorgeous Scottish Highlands. I recently gave it a go, and let me tell you, it’s a hike you won’t forget anytime soon! Here’s a rundown of my experience, including tips on how to get there, where to crash for the night, good spots to grab a bite, and when’s the best time to make the climb.

Getting There and Kicking Off the Hike

The most popular way up Ben Nevis is the Mountain Track (some call it the Tourist Track or Pony Track). This is the route I took, and it starts at the Glen Nevis Visitor Centre, just a stone’s throw from Fort William. The visitor center’s a good place to start off—plenty of parking, some handy info, and restrooms to use before you head out.

Getting to Fort William is pretty easy:

By Car: If you’re driving from Glasgow or Edinburgh, you’re looking at a 2.5 to 3-hour drive. The scenery on the way is stunning, so it’s worth taking your time.
By Train: I’ve taken the train from Glasgow before, and it’s a cracking ride along the West Highland Line. Takes about 4 hours, but the views out the window are worth it.
By Bus: There are regular buses from Glasgow, Inverness, and other big cities. I’ve met a few folks on these buses who were up for the same adventure.

Once you hit Fort William, it’s a quick taxi ride or local bus to the Glen Nevis Visitor Centre. Trust me, starting early in the morning is the way to go—more daylight and fewer people on the trail.

The Hike: Distance, Ascent, and Descent

So, the hike itself is about 10.5 miles (17 kilometers) round trip. Sounds manageable, right? But keep in mind, it’s a steady climb with some rocky bits near the top. It took me about 7 hours in total—around 4.5 hours up and 2.5 hours down, but it really depends on how fast you’re moving and what the weather’s doing.

You’re looking at a climb of 1,345 meters (4,413 feet) from the bottom to the top. The path starts off easy enough, winding up the hill with a bunch of zigzags, but things get a bit rougher as you go higher. If you’re reasonably fit and take your time, you’ll be fine, but don’t underestimate it!

Coming back down is the same route, and I’ll be honest, it’s tough on the knees. If you’ve got trekking poles, you’ll be glad you brought them!

Where to Stay and Eat in Fort William

After a long day on the mountain, you’re going to want somewhere comfy to rest and something decent to eat. Here are a few spots in Fort William that I checked out or heard good things about:

Places to Stay:

Nevis Bank Inn: This is where I stayed. Comfy, modern, and just a short stroll from the town center—can’t go wrong.
The Garrison Hotel: I didn’t stay here, but a few mates did. It’s right in the middle of town, with a cool boutique vibe.
Glen Nevis Youth Hostel: If you’re keeping an eye on your budget, this is a solid choice. Close to the trailhead and a good spot to meet other hikers.

Places to Eat:

The Grog & Gruel: A proper pub with a great atmosphere. They serve up all the Scottish classics, and it’s the perfect spot to relax after a long day.
Ben Nevis Inn: Right near the start of the trail, this place was packed with hikers like me when I came down. Big portions and good vibes!
Crannog Seafood Restaurant: If you’re into seafood, this place is top-notch. Right on the water, with cracking views and fresh catches.

Best Time to Hike Ben Nevis

The best time to take on Ben Nevis is from May to September. I went in June, and it was spot on—nice long days, decent weather, and the trail was clear of snow. July and August are the warmest months, but they can be a bit busy, so an early start is key to avoiding the crowds.

If you’re after a quieter experience, May, June, or September are great. Just remember that the Scottish weather can be wild, so bring layers and be ready for anything!

Wrapping Up

Climbing Ben Nevis was one of the most epic things I’ve done. The views from the top, the feeling of getting there, and the banter with other hikers along the way—it’s something special. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just up for a new challenge, Ben Nevis is worth every step. Just plan ahead, respect the mountain, and soak up every bit of the adventure. You’ll be buzzing for days afterward!