What is the best month to climb Ben Nevis?
Climbing Ben Nevis between June and September will provide your best chance to avoid the chance of extreme weather conditions and snow disrupting your challenge.
What time should you start climbing Ben Nevis?
When is the best time of year to climb? Summer is always the best time of year to tackle the Ben, with sunshine and clear views on the way to the top. You are likely to see snow at all times of the year, but climbing Ben Nevis in the winter is only for experienced mountaineers.
Can you climb Ben Nevis as a beginner?
The Novice Walker should not attempt to walk up Ben Nevis between November and May, or during bad or cloudy weather. The walk is just over 4 miles each way – a total of 8 1/2 miles in all. The Ben Nevis Tourist Path (often called the Mountain Track) is the only path which should be attempted by the novice walker.
Where should I stay if I want to climb Ben Nevis?
Where can you stay?
- Glencoe. 20 miles – 30-minute journey. Glencoe is the home of the Glencoe Mountain Resort.
- Glenfinnan. 18 miles, 28-minute journey.
- Invergarry. 25 miles, 35-minute journey.
How hard is it to climb Ben Nevis?
How hard you will find climbing Ben Nevis will totally depend on your fitness – and the type of exercise you are used to. Firstly, the Mountain Path route is 11 miles from the Ben Nevis Visitor Centre, so I suggest getting used to walking at least 10 miles on a regular basis.
Is it worth taking a bearing on the Ben Nevis?
It’s far safer to take a bearing (there’s a reason the bearings are even printed on the Ben Nevis map). Follow your bearing or, on a clear day, the line of cairns up to the summit. The top trig point and observatory is just to the left of the last cairn. Again it’s worth taking a bearing.
Do I need to prepare for a Glen Nevis hike?
In reality I honestly needn’t have bothered. (N.B. The Helpful Hiker always recommends thorough preparation). It is, after all, quite a popular walking spot, especially on a warm, sunny day as we enjoyed. The appropriately named ‘Tourist Route’ (or Pony Track) from Glen Nevis is well marked and you’re likely to walk up in procession.
What should I wear on Ben Nevis?
Even in summer, Ben Nevis can be very cold, wet, windy and covered in snow; and remember, it will get colder and windier the higher you climb. Don’t be fooled by the weather conditions down in Fort William, it will be very different on the upper slopes of Ben Nevis, so make sure you take warm and waterproof clothes including hat and gloves.