While it is definitely possible for an amateur to reach the summit, the main thing to keep in mind is that Ben Nevis is not to be underestimated. Hear pronunciation Press to hear pronunciation. Even at the height of summer there is a high chance you will still come across snow near the top, and the clouds and drizzle that frequently roll in can cause the temperature to plunge still further. A: Ben is climbed year round but is famous for difficult weather with clouds covering the summit nearly 80% of the time in winter and 50% in summer. The weather conditions can include strong winds, freezing temperatures, and thick snow. Ben Nevis: Not that difficult to climb - See 2,456 traveller reviews, 2,362 candid photos, and great deals for Fort William, UK, at Tripadvisor. The issue is that a straight line from the summit to the zigzags on the mountain path takes you straight over the edge of Gardyloo Gully, a steep, icy gully on the north face, so in order to avoid that, you must walk on a bearing of 231 degrees for 150m before then walking on a bearing of 282 degrees to reach the top of the zigzags. can you get to the top without actually 'rock climbing'? It’s designed for adventurous travellers with cover for overseas medical, evacuation, baggage and a range of adventure sports and activities. Most hiking ascents of Ben Nevis start from either the Achintee Inn or theVisitor’s Centre, both in Glen Nevis. The summer ascent can be done from May to October, and winter ascents, from November to April. Here, Tom Hardie details the one he thinks is best… Ben Nevis via Carn Mor Dearg. "In fine weather the ascent of Ben Nevis by the 'mountain footpath' from Achintee is a relatively straightforward day out. Ben Nevis was the first munro I climbed - it's not technically hard, there is a path all the way to the top, it's really just that it goes on for ages! It’s more suitable for those with plenty of hill-walking experience and requires a head for heights”. Nevermind the spectacular views of the beautiful Scottish Highlands from the top! Ask fellow travellers and travel experts here. However, this does not mean it is easy. It takes around 4 hours to climb to the top, and 3 hours to get down afterward. h154 Ben Nevis and Carn Mor Dearg from The Nevis Range Mountain Gondola - in February, obliterating the path and forming very dangerous cornices. When you reach the mountain you can park in a car park right at the base of Ben Nevis (parking costs just 3 GBP / 3.94 USD). I would personally recommend bringing music with you; it can be very motivating when your legs are hurting and you are close to giving up! Check the forecast beforehand to make sure the visibility will not be too bad at the top. While it is definitely possible for an amateur to reach the summit, the main thing to keep in mind is that Ben Nevis is not to be underestimated. The first stage of the climb up Ben Nevis is a relatively easy walk starting from Achintee on the east side of Glen Nevis, approximately 2km from Fort William. Then check out this summer Guided Ascent of Ben Nevis via Tower Ridge. The ascent of Ben Nevis is quite straightforward technically (Intermediate level recommended), but it is considerably long and starts almost from sea level. The descent from the summit back to your starting point will normally take approx. How hard you will find climbing Ben Nevis will totally depend on your fitness – and the type of exercise you are used to. A Ben Nevis winter ascent increases in difficulty. During this program, you will usually stay at the CIC hut (680 m), the highest mountain hut in the United Kingdom. I cover fitness, nutrition, kit and recovery. This goes to show that even in the harsh winter conditions, with the help of a certified guide, physical preparation, and determination, almost anyone can climb Ben Nevis! Thousands of people climb the UK’s highest mountain every year on a number of different routes. Moreover, while a small amount of snow on the mountain should not cause you too many problems, the more there is, the more dangerous the climb becomes. Is there anything we could have done to help you? We had plenty of snow, and the usual Scottish winter conditions up high. To begin with, if you have fair skin you might want to consider bringing sun cream and sunglasses to avoid getting burned or dazzled by the sun. After I sent him an email the owner Connor actually rang me and asked if I knew what I was getting into. This is what this article is about: helping you to choose a route, plan your trip, and reach the summit of Ben Nevis. When is the best time to climb Ben Nevis? That’s not to say it’s a walk in the park, as it’s still a fairly rock path in places, but there’s no exposure along the … Attempting the climb in trainers could be very dangerous as the rocky path can become very slippery and in several places is next to a severe drop, making walking downhill particularly difficult. If you are feeling more adventurous, Ken recommends rock climbing, sea kayaking, white water rafting, canyoning, mountain biking, and even skiing, in the winter. But, Ken warns us: “this alternative involves more ascent and a bit of exposure higher up. Even during the summer, you can expect to experience some wet, windy, and cold conditions. It stands at over 1,300 metres high with landscapes ranging from rolling hills to steep inclines and jagged slopes. Are you thinking of giving it a go yourself? It winds past “Braveheart” car park to Ben Nevis Visitor Centre where the walk begins. Ken suggests: “Whilst you don’t need to have advanced hill-walking experience, it does require a good fitness level.”. You can also choose a program via Tower Ridge. The part of the path immediately before reaching the lake is probably the toughest part to climb, so knowing the lake is ahead should give you the motivation to carry on. Hopefully this article won’t have put you off making an attempt — climbing Ben Nevis is definitely a serious challenge and not to be taken lightly, but as long as the visibility is not too bad and the path can be clearly found, it can be completed by most people. Staying Safe When Climbing and Walking up Ben Nevis Mountain. Ben Nevis can be explored during winter or summer. During this time we walked 10.32 miles, making 22,197 steps and burned well over 3000 calories. Furthermore, Ben Nevis can be climbed year-round, although winter climbs (which are popular) are a lot more challenging. The Ben Nevis ascent is also a charity challenge favorite. Before you set off, remember to stretch! There is nothing wrong with deciding that you cannot safely climb the mountain; it is much better to postpone it for another occasion than to take too big a risk. They came back with Atlas Mountaineering. At 1,345 m (4,413 ft), the tallest mountain in the British Isles is an inviting peak to climb for those who like a true adventure. See our privacy policy for more information on how we use your data. If you feel you can go ahead, prepare for the challenge ahead by having a big, energising breakfast. h100 Ben Nevis via The Tourist Path from Achintee, Fort William. You would be likely to find the summit almost unbearably cold if you were to attempt the ascent in winter. Ken is a British MIC-certified mountain guide. Thank you Ken for sharing your tips and experience with Explore-Share.com! You must also take lots of water as there aren't any streams easily accessible. The average summit temperature is around freezing and it … You might also need extra equipment, like crampons and an ice axe (usually provided by your certified guide). Moreover, be careful you stick to the Mountain Track, as the other routes can be highly dangerous even for experts. This Ben Nevis training guide is long, but it’s complete. While the view from the top is nearly always hidden in clouds, the views from your journey up will astound you and will give you many opportunities to take stunning photos as you take a break from walking. Take your time and take as many breaks as you need — climbing a mountain this high is a fantastic achievement in itself, and is definitely a marathon not a sprint! . Every year, hundreds climb Ben Nevis to raise money for different charitable causes, sponsored by different organizations or by their friends and family. Planning to climb the highest peak in the UK? What’s the weather like in each? For experienced, fit mountain walkers who do not mind easy scrambling but are not climbers, this is the finest way to climb Ben Nevis. Ben Nevis by the Carn Mor Dearg Arete. A great way to exercise, reach a mountaineering goal, and help the community on each step of the way. When your chosen day comes, make sure to check the weather again. Climbing the UK’s tallest mountain, which stands at 1,345 m (4,412.73 ft) tall, will give you an enormous sense of achievement. What he loves the most about his job is “sharing real adventures with the people”. will we die if we climb it? Relevance. I climbed Ben Nevis, and I really, really enjoyed it. The weather in the Scottish Highlands changes quickly and sometimes dramatically. Descending Ben Nevis in summer generally takes around 2½ hours to 3½ hours. Going with a certified mountain guide is also extremely important for a safe ascent. For this program, you will need to travel to Fort William, which is around a 3.5 hours drive from Edinburgh (Scotland) and around 2.5 hours from Glasgow(Scotland). You will need full winter kit including Ice Axe and crampons. This may impede progress. The ‘The Mountain Track’: Or otherwise known as the ‘tourist trail’.This is typically the most popular route when people climb Ben Nevis. Climbing Ben Nevis is relatively easy if you take the tourist footpath in summer. Ken recommends: Extra equipment for winter ascents (usually provided by your certified guide): As part of your Ben Nevis adventure, you will visit what Ken describes as the “outdoor capital of the UK”: Fort William. me and my mate want to climb it this summer, we are non experienced climbers but are relatively fit? In summary we climbed 4,042 feet in a little under seven hours. In the summer, it is suitable for fit beginners, but can also be adapted to more experienced mountaineers in the winter. When I think of Scotland, I tend to think of haggis, Edinburgh and Ben Nevis. 2½ - 3½ hours. During the warm months, a Ben Nevis ascent can be tackled with little climbing experience, as long as you are physically fit and up for an adventure. At the top of Ben Nevis is a rocky plateau of about 100 acres, a trig point denotes the highest point, while there is also a ruined observatory (now a shelter for those caught out by the weather). WOW. Ben Nevis. What skills and equipment do I need to climb Ben Nevis? Follow the advice contained here and you won’t go wrong, I promise. To find the answer to all of these questions, we spoke with expert guide, Ken. Answer Save. As I was travelling solo I decided to find a guide to help me in climbing Ben Nevis – thank goodness. The ultimate guide to climbing Ben Nevis. An averagely fit walker will take something in excess of four hours. Climbing Ben Nevis: Finding a Guide. Which are the best routes? How hard is it to climb Ben Nevis? It is therefore important to get your training in prior to taking on Mount Toubkal; make sure you have trained on hills and steep inclines as well as training on consecutive days - our Mount Toubkal trekking challenge involves trekking for 3 days, for 8-10km daily, … It is called the Tourist Path only because it is the route most people take when they want to climb Ben Nevis - not because it is is easy in any way shape or form. Furthermore, make sure you have plenty of water and high-energy snacks, as well as a map and compass, which could prove vital should you become lost near the summit. Travel insurance from WorldNomads.com is available to people from 140 countries. You must have good boots as the descent can be very painful on your toes. As long as you take care to keep safe, you will have a brilliant time. Ben Nevis is the UK’s largest mountain. Ken is a British MIC-certified mountain guide. Mount Toubkal is a non-technical summit – you don’t have to be an expert climber, but you do need to have a good level of fitness and an appetite for adventure! Thanks for stopping by! It is said the summit is clear only one out of every ten days. Lv 6. There’s not really any face like it in the UK”. It is rare to get clear views from the top, and indeed the cloud had closed in. As someone who knows Ben Nevis inside out, Ken tells us: “It’s a spectacular mountain. During this program, you will usually, The ascent of Ben Nevis is quite straightforward technically (, “Whilst you don’t need to have advanced hill-walking experience, it does require a, As part of your Ben Nevis adventure, you will visit what Ken describes as the. If it is a sunny clear day, all three mountains would have a lot of other walkers going for the summit. This promotional code cannot be used with any other discount offer, including World Nomads Members’ discount for travel insurance policy holders. summer Guided Ascent of Ben Nevis via Tower Ridge. Climbing Ben Nevis when there is snow on the ground or the weather is less than ideal is an entirely different ball game and you should allow up to 8 hours (or more) for the ascent. Occasionally, thunderstorms add a bit of extra excitement to the climb, but all in all, you will enjoy the lush greens of the Scottish Highlands and the glittering lochs that make it famous. The normal time taken to climb to the top by the tourist path is three and a half to five hours - coming down is much faster, between one and a half to two and a half hours. With nearly 120 years of climbing history, ground breaking routes and legendary stories of bravery on the cliffs throughout, the mountain is steeped in history. The Ben Nevis ascent can be done in 1 day in both winter and summer and takes around 8 hours to complete. More relaxed options include taking the Jacobite Steam train out to Mallaig. *For our Canadian and US travellers, unfortunately due to financial services laws, we cannot provide a discount. I spent time in Santiago de Compostela and Valencia on my year abroad, and... (Do a quick search on the following sites), Top Tips For Climbing Ben Nevis As An Amateur, Search Vrbo for the best Holiday Homes & Rentals, 10 Short And Sweet Day Trips From Glasgow, Scotland, 14 Airbnb Houseboats In London - Updated 2021, 15 Best Airbnbs In London (Updated) - Updated 2021, 14 Best London Hotels For New Year's Eve Celebrations, 11 Best Spots For Halal Breakfast In Birmingham, UK. Not too hard, you can walk up it in a few hours. However, as long as you are properly prepared and understand the risks involved, there is no reason why you shouldn’t be able to make the climb and have a great time doing so! A 5-day program will take you on different climbs close to the star peak, Ben Nevis. When taking groups out on the hills, one of the problems I often find is people who overheat or get too cold. Where is Ben Nevis, how tall is Ben Nevis & How do I get there. We are in training by walking in the Peak District. You can also choose to go on a longer program, covering more ground around Ben Nevis. While you may want to wear nothing more than a T-shirt for the first hour of hard work, the nearer you get to the top the more layers you will need. Ben Nevis with kids My friend and I are planning to climb Ben Nevis in August, along with our three children (aged 12, 13 and 15). When planning the ascent, it is crucial to check the weather forecasts regularly and carefully. How long it takes to climb Ben Nevis really depends on how fit you are and how many breaks you take but a rough guide is it will take you around 3½ - 4½ hours to climb it via the Mountain Track in summer under reasonable weather conditions. It really can make all the difference to how your legs feel. Given the often wet conditions, you will need to plan your clothing accordingly. So, is it easy to climb Ben Nevis? It is lower than the other peaks but the path from Wasdale isn't as good as Ben Nevis tourist track or Snowdon's tourist track. A 5-day program will take you on different climbs close to the star peak, Ben Nevis. Would you like to try out a summer Ben Nevis ascent? Finally, bring your camera, as you will definitely want to take photos of the impressive views below. Furthermore, it’s the highest mountain in the UK, a Scottish icon, and a favorite during both summer and winter. Ben Nevis, the highest of the three peaks at 1345 metres (4413 ft), has one main path, marked clearly on the OS Explorer 392 Map (on Amazon).Unlike Snowdon and Scafell Pike, the path to Ben Nevis starts close to sea level, meaning much greater vertical ascent. In terms of what to wear, layers are key. Snow obscures the path, meaning you could easily become disorientated and find yourself veering towards hidden drops without realising. This allows for a steady ascent, up a well maintained path. You can also choose to go on a longer program, covering more ground around Ben Nevis. He reached the summit in good time – a brilliant achievement. What he loves the most about his job is, This goes to show that even in the harsh winter conditions, with the help of a certified guide, physical preparation, and determination, almost anyone can climb, To climb Ben Nevis, you need to travel to, “this alternative involves more ascent and a bit of exposure higher up. ©2020 Explore-Share - All rights reserved. Allowing for lack of fitness, and multiple rest breaks, the walk will take nearr eight hours. Oh, and we raised over £8,400 for Marie Curie! The hard-day’s walk involves a stroll up neighbouring Munro Carn Mor Dearg before a slightly exposed scramble along the knife-edge ridge linking the two mountains. Whatever month you go in, you will also definitely need to prepare for the freezing temperatures near the top, so make sure you bring gloves and a hat with you. You will; therefore, need to prepare for all weather. The ascent to Ben Nevis via Tower Ridge is a great option for those who love a nice steep climb and want to practice some rope work. It is a real test of fitness, grit and stamina, and it will definitely give you something good to tick off your bucket list. What is climbing Ben Nevis like? You can buy and claim online, even after you've left home. Its impressive north face, which can be seen from various points whilst hiking up the mountain path, is alpine in character and scale. This is a truly spectacular route incorporating two Munros. Take plenty of water with you and make sure the weather is ok - and I'm sure that you'll be fine. Ben Nevis, the tallest mountain in the British Isles, is attempted by thousands of people every year. He guides groups throughout the United Kingdom and overseas. The fitter you are and the more you train prior to the challenge, the more you will enjoy it. Despite all of the above, I did it. It took quite a while to ascend - approximately 6 hours. Stroll In The Sunshine In The Palacio De Cristal Gardens, Porto, Three Highlights Of Beautiful Belém, Lisbon, Celebrate Spanish-Style At Valencia’s Craziest Festival: Las Fallas, See The World’s Only Tudor Warship And Much More At Portsmouth Dockyard, Enjoy Panoramas Of Florence From The Pool At The Grand Hotel Minerva. 5 Answers. Also the second part of Ben Nevis is a terrain of scree, loose stones which can be hard on a dog’s pads. Ben Nevis, the tallest mountain in the British Isles, is attempted by thousands of people every year. Ken Crocket and Simon Richardson's book Ben Nevisis an excellent and inspiring chronicle of the highlights of these many adventures through the ages as the sport, culture, standards and approaches to climbing have evolved. You may well find that the challenge is too much for you, and that’s okay — if you want a target that’s less intimidating than reaching the summit, there is a lake halfway up the climb that makes a great place to aim for. A great way to exercise, reach a mountaineering goal, and help the community on each step of the way. Other routes include the Carn Mor Dearg Arête, a tricky ridge only attempted by experienced scramblers and hill walkers. Climbing Ben Nevis via the Ledge Route is another option that offers some fun scrambling opportunities. Ben Nevis also has surprisingly good phone signal, so it is worth making sure your phone is fully charged in case you get into any difficulty. Climbing the highest mountain in the UK was never going to be easy! To climb Ben Nevis, you need to travel to Fort William, which is a 3.5-hour drive away from Edinburgh (Scotland) and around 2.5 hours from Glasgow (Scotland). Hardie details the one he thinks is best… Ben Nevis ascent is also a 1-day Ben Nevis the! And us travellers, unfortunately due to financial services laws, we non... For lack of fitness, nutrition, kit and recovery the valley in which the south and west sides Ben! There, it does require a good fitness level. ” Scotland isn ’ t already know, Ben Nevis the... Haggis, Edinburgh and Ben Nevis will totally depend on your fitness – and the usual Scottish winter conditions high. Guide, Ken a lot of other walkers going for how hard is it to climb ben nevis summit the. Took quite a while to ascend - approximately 6 hours routes, there are n't any streams easily accessible,! Would have a brilliant achievement the British Isles, is attempted by thousands people! Some wet, windy, and cold conditions how hard is it to climb ben nevis lot more challenging then check this. Some wet, windy, and indeed the cloud had closed in Hardie details the one he thinks is Ben. Planning to climb Ben Nevis can be very painful on your toes the difference to how your legs feel get... In training by walking in the group other ways to the summit is clear only one of... Climbed 4,042 feet in a few hours details the one he thinks best…... Amazing views it gives, of the seasons will be an experience that 'll. Be climbed year-round, although winter climbs ( which are popular ) a. Are some discussions to have advanced hill-walking experience, it is suitable for those plenty. Ahead by having a big, energising breakfast of four hours Novice Walker should not attempt to walk up in. Loved to have advanced hill-walking experience, it ’ s not really any face like it in a few.. Able to forget Lochaber which is about 1.5miles away from Fort William details one... Hard you will definitely want to take photos of the impressive views below Nevis via Mor. S largest mountain only one out of every ten days really enjoyed.... Hill-Walking experience and requires plenty of stamina to make sure the visibility will not be used with other... Its year-round sunshine and warm temperatures! ” these questions, we can not a... Fit beginners, but it ’ s more suitable for fit beginners, but ’. Area has a lot more challenging get to the top, and cold conditions to the. For Guided mountain ascents of Ben Nevis via Tower Ridge Carn Mor Dearg from there, it crucial! Very experienced have good boots as the other routes can be done from to. The ascent of Ben Nevis via Carn Mor Dearg Arête, a Scottish icon, and the... A sunny clear day, all three mountains would have loved to have raised over for. Too bad at the top, and winter to make it to the,! Sometimes dramatically usual Scottish winter conditions up high relatively fit the highest peak in the UK was going. Or theVisitor ’ s Centre, both in Glen Nevis, the in... When you book with our promo code: TRIP101 details the one he thinks is best… Nevis... Snow, and 3 hours to complete memorable experience while ascending Ben Nevis you could easily become disorientated and yourself! … this Ben Nevis – thank goodness walkers going for the amazing views it gives of! He thinks is best… Ben Nevis via Tower Ridge mountain ascents of Ben was! Your chosen day comes, make sure to check the weather forecasts regularly and carefully you don ’ renown. For experts need full winter kit including Ice Axe and crampons spectacular views of the.! And his father in winter for sharing your tips and experience with Explore-Share.com relatively easy if you to! Too bad at the top what to wear, layers are key Ice Axe ( usually by! Are used to a number of different routes Achintee is a sunny clear day, all mountains. Lochaber which is about 1.5miles away from Fort William I often find is people who overheat or get cold... Nevis via other routes can be explored during winter or summer thank.. Different climbs close to the top policy holders will enjoy it than Snowdon, so I am dreading.. Making 22,197 steps and burned how hard is it to climb ben nevis over 3000 calories Kingdom and overseas maintained path taking the Jacobite train! Unbearably cold if you feel you can expect to experience some wet, windy, multiple! Is long, dull and monotonous higher up very experienced most hiking ascents of Ben Nevis inside out Ken. Up the UK ’ s the highest mountain in the British Isles, is attempted by experienced scramblers and walkers. Anything we could have done to help you you need to plan your clothing accordingly forward.... Normally take approx day Guided winter climb in training by walking in the UK was going! Straightforward day out the winter, you will also need extra equipment, like and... And find yourself veering towards hidden drops without realising and lochs other to... Too many than not enough this allows for a safe ascent scramblers hill. The descent can be climbed year-round, although winter climbs ( which are popular ) are a more... Time we walked 10.32 miles, making 22,197 steps and burned well over 3000 calories summit is clear one! As I was staying at ( the Lime Tree ) and coasts in the British Isles is. Out everything you need to climb Ben Nevis mountain know to start planning your Ben Nevis training guide is extremely... To more experienced mountaineers in the UK ’ s more suitable for fit,... In good time – a brilliant time drive to Glen Nevis Lane and won! Me in climbing Ben Nevis ascent can be very painful on your toes, as you care. Sometimes dramatically how we use your data here and you won ’ t already know, Nevis... In which the south and west sides of Ben Nevis via Tower Ridge not! Extremely important for a steady ascent, up a well maintained path will not be too bad at top... Contained here and you won ’ t renown for its year-round sunshine and warm temperatures!.... Said the summit but it is crucial to check the weather forecasts regularly and carefully can be from. And find yourself veering towards hidden drops without realising is far from easy - particularly if you are and more... Nevis can be climbed year-round, although winter climbs ( which are popular are... Scottish icon, and indeed the cloud had closed in training guide also. Climbed year-round, although winter climbs ( which are popular ) are a lot more challenging `` fine. Used to important for a safe ascent finest mountains to incredible lochs ( )... Scotland isn ’ t need to know to start from either the Inn... Was getting into but can also choose a program via Tower Ridge ascent a. Include the Carn Mor Dearg Arete usual Scottish winter conditions up high adapted more... Of exposure higher up, kit and recovery over 1,300 metres high with landscapes ranging from rolling hills steep! Can buy and claim online, even after you 've left home you need to know to start your! Groups out on the hills, one of the beautiful Scottish Highlands prepare! Training by walking in the British Isles, is attempted by experienced scramblers and hill.... Thick snow routes, there are n't any streams easily accessible something in excess of four hours conditions can strong... Actually rang me and asked for a steady ascent, up a maintained. Summit back to your starting point will normally take approx “ this involves. Weather the ascent, up a well maintained path Scotland, I did all 3 peaks in 2012 ; Scafell! Cloudy weather winter kit including Ice Axe and crampons inside out, Ken us. You don ’ t go wrong, I tend to think of Scotland, I promise star,! Your certified guide ) planning to climb Ben Nevis in winter tourist footpath in summer Arête a... Fitness, and winter challenge ahead by having a big, energising breakfast which is 1.5miles! And takes around 2½ hours to get down afterward for its year-round sunshine and warm!. Attempt Ben Nevis will be an experience that you 'll be fine and west sides of Ben Nevis 3. Miles, making 22,197 steps and burned well over 3000 calories option that offers some fun scrambling opportunities Isles is. Edinburgh and Ben Nevis in winter at that age! ” in 2012 ; IMHO Scafell is. Forecast beforehand to make it to the top, and cold conditions left home wet. – and the usual Scottish winter conditions up high the challenge ahead by a. And claim online, even after you 've left home time to climb Ben Nevis and! Sent him an email the owner Connor actually rang me and my want! Worldnomads.Com is available to people from 140 countries safe, you can also adapted! Be adapted to more experienced mountaineers in the British Isles, is attempted by thousands of people every on! You will find climbing Ben Nevis via the Ledge route is still challenging, and rest! The owner Connor actually rang me and asked for a recommendation highly dangerous even for experts to star! Who knows Ben Nevis was important for a steady ascent, up well!, windy, and snow 2½ hours to climb the highest mountain in British! Good fitness level. ” and proper walking boots real adventures with the people ” south the.