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The Ben Nevis Summit Definitely Belongs on Your Scottish Highland Adventure List

Set in the gorgeous Scottish Highlands and at 1345m (4411ft), Ben Nevis stands above all other mountains in the British Isles. A journey to its summit is one of rugged beauty, epic sweeping vistas, and most likely challenging weather.

By: Adrien Patanè + Save to a List

A hike to Ben Nevis summit in the Scottish Highlands is an epic journey ascending lush green hillsides, crossing windswept ridges and navigating rocky paths.


As the path continues from Lochan Meall and t-Suidhe, it slowly ascends moss covered and rugged valleys, flanked by the volcanic rock faces of a once active volcano.


Approaching the CIC hut on Ben Nevis' Northern side, you're in the company of bubbling creeks and light mist being whipped up from the chilly winds, catching the abundant mosses lining the rocky paths.


Be prepared for battering winds, spotty rain and brisk temperatures - yet this all pales into insignificance when surrounded by epic views, craggy mountainsides and dynamic skies.


The trail toward Càrn Dearg quickly steepens and eventually switches to modest scrambling onto the summit. Be warned: this section, whilst ruggedly beautiful, is also particularly challenging if you lack a head for heights.

Ascending Càrn Dearg on our way to Ben Nevis' rocky plateau

Inclement weather is almost guaranteed in the Highlands in the fall - yet it brings an almost ethereal feel to the ancient landscape, and if you're lucky enough, you may just catch a glimpse of the sun peering through the thick clouds.

Our first glimpse of the sun all day, and what an entry it made...

Its a magical landscape you're wandering through and with the sun dipping below the horizon you begin the descent into the evening light as crisp winds blow at your back.

Sunset fading into evening twilight over Lochan Meall an t-Suidhe

We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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