The 20 Most Amazing Peaks in Ben Nevis And Glen Coe

The most common route to the summit of Ben Nevis is the Ben Nevis Mountain Path, also known as the 'Pony Track'. It's a straightforward, zigzagging path that sees around 75,000 ascents annually. For a more adventurous and scenic option, experienced hikers can consider the CMD Arete (Càrn Mòr Dearg Arête), a grade one scramble that connects Càrn Mòr Dearg with Ben Nevis summit, offering breathtaking views of the North Face.

The peaks in Ben Nevis and Glen Coe offer a range of difficulties. Ben Nevis itself, via the Mountain Path, is a challenging ascent due to its length (10.5 miles) and significant elevation gain (1,352 meters). Other peaks like Buachaille Etive Mòr and Bidean nam Bian involve steep uphill sections, rocky trails, and can include mild scrambling. The Aonach Eagach Ridge is considered one of mainland Scotland's most difficult horizontal scrambling ridges, requiring significant climbing skills and experience.

Glen Coe is renowned for its dramatic landscapes. The Stob Dearg (Buachaille Etive Mòr) summit offers superb panoramic views across Rannoch Moor and is famous for its distinctive pyramidal profile. The Three Sisters of Glen Coe (Gearr Aonach, Aonach Dubh, and Beinn Fhada) are striking ridges within the Bidean nam Bian massif. Additionally, the Hidden Valley (Coire Gabhail) within Bidean nam Bian is a secluded glen with a rich history.

While the Ben Nevis Mountain Path can be very crowded, especially on good weather days, the CMD Arete route to Ben Nevis via Càrn Mòr Dearg offers a quieter and more adventurous experience with incredible views of Ben Nevis's North Face. This route is a grade one scramble and is suitable for experienced hikers.

The best time to hike in Ben Nevis and Glen Coe is generally during the late spring, summer, and early autumn months (May to September) when weather conditions are typically more stable, and daylight hours are longer. However, even in summer, conditions can change rapidly, and it can snow on Ben Nevis all year round. Winter conditions (October to April) are significantly more challenging, often requiring specialist equipment and experience due to snow, ice, and shorter daylight.

While the main ascent of Ben Nevis is challenging, there are family-friendly walks in the wider Glen Nevis area. For example, the Glen Nevis Valley trail running loop is a moderate option, and the Steall Waterfall and Glen Nevis hike is also considered moderate. These offer a chance to experience the stunning scenery without the extreme difficulty of summiting the highest peaks.

Glen Coe is home to some of Scotland's most challenging ridge walks. The Aonach Eagach Ridge is widely regarded as the most difficult horizontal scrambling ridge in mainland Scotland, featuring steep, exposed, and narrow sections. The CMD Arete, linking Càrn Mòr Dearg to Ben Nevis, is another challenging grade one scramble with exposed sections.

Parking for the Ben Nevis Mountain Path is typically available at the Glen Nevis Visitor Centre near Fort William. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season, as parking can fill up quickly. There are also other car parks in the Glen Nevis area that provide access to various trails.

The Ben Nevis and Glen Coe regions are rich in wildlife. You might spot red deer, golden eagles, buzzards, and various smaller birds. Keep an eye out for mountain hares and stoats, especially at higher elevations. The diverse habitats, from moorland to rocky peaks, support a variety of species.

Beyond peak bagging, the region offers a wide array of outdoor activities. You can explore various MTB trails, including the challenging Devil's Staircase or the easier Glencoe Lochan Mountain Trail. There are also numerous running trails like the Ben Nevis Mountain Path or the Ring of Steall Skyrace route. For hikers, waterfall hikes such as Steall Waterfall and Glen Nevis are popular.

Buachaille Etive Mòr, often called 'The Buachaille,' is one of Scotland's most recognizable peaks due to its distinctive pyramidal shape, especially when viewed from the northeast. Its highest point, Stob Dearg (Buachaille Etive Mòr) summit, offers superb panoramic views across Rannoch Moor. It stands as a sentinel at the head of Glen Etive and the entrance to Glen Coe, making it a popular subject for photographers and a challenging climb for adventurers.

The Hidden Valley, or Coire Gabhail, is a secluded glen within the Bidean nam Bian massif. Historically, it was used by the Clan MacDonald to hide cattle, giving it a sense of mystery and isolation. Today, it's a popular short walk offering dramatic scenery, with terrain that can be steep and rocky, leading into a beautiful, hidden basin.

When hiking in the Scottish peaks, essential gear includes waterproof and windproof outer layers, warm clothing (even in summer), sturdy hiking boots, a map and compass (and the ability to use them), a headlamp, sufficient food and water, and a first-aid kit. Due to rapid weather changes, it's crucial to be prepared for all conditions, including rain, strong winds, and cold temperatures, regardless of the season.