Ben
Nevis Frequently Asked Questions
What Height is Ben Nevis?
1344 meters or 4408 ft - Don't ask me how I know, I just do. You
will find numerous different heights for the mountain but this
is the right one.
Where is Ben Nevis?
Ben Nevis is in the Western Highlands two miles north east from
the Town of Fort William. The Grid reference for the summit of
is NN166712.
How do I get to Fort William?
Fort William is three hours drive or bus journey from Glasgow on
the A82. Buses are operated by Scottish Citylink. Trains run
from Glasgow Queen Street on the spectacular West Highland Line
and take about four hours. Operated by First Scotrail. You can
of course join our Ben Nevis Adventure weekend which includes
transport from Glasgow to Fort William.
How many routes are there on Ben Nevis?
There are literally hundreds of routes to the summit of Ben Nevis.
The bad news is that most of these are climbing routes suitable
only for experienced mountaineers. There are only two regularly
used walking routes to the summit.
Which Route should I use?
The vast majority of people use the Mountain Track (otherwise known
as the Ben Path or Tourist Track). This route is accessible from
The Visitor Centre in Glen Nevis, The Ben Nevis Inn, Achintee
and the Youth Hostel in Glen Nevis. The round trip is about 10
miles, ascent is 1340 metres and takes most people between 6
and eight hours for the return trip. There is a common misconception
that this is an easy walk. Nothing could be further from the
truth. It is physically demanding, the path is very rough going,
the climb is considerable, it is almost always very cold on the
summit and is often navigationally very challenging. Make sure
that you are properly prepared.
The second route which is preferred by regular
hillwalkers is known as the CMD Arete. (Short for Carn Mor Dearg
Arete, which
no one
can
ever
pronounce.)
This immensely rewarding route is hugely satisfying and gives great
views of the north face of Ben Nevis. It is significantly more
challenging both physically and navigationally than the Mountain
Track and should only be attempted by experienced walkers. The
route is accessed from the North Face car park at Torlundy.
Is the Mountain Track Path marked?
No! The path is wide and clear towards the bottom of the mountain
but as you climb higher and especially on the summit plateau
the path is often completely obscured by snow. You must carry
a map
and compass and know how to use them.
What map do I need?
You have a couple of choices. I recommend the Harvey Maps "Ben
Nevis", this excellent map is a 1:25000 scale map and also has
an enlargement of the summit area as well as excellent safety
advice. The 1:50000 Ordnance Survey Landranger number 51 is also
useful.
What is the weather like on Ben Nevis?
The summit is on average 9 degrees colder than the base,
the top is only cloud free an average of thirty days a year
and Fort William receives over 2000mm of rain a year (Ben Nevis
receives far more than this.). What I am trying to say is that
you should be prepared for bad weather and be very happy if you
get good weather. Detailed mountain weather reports are available
from www.mwis.org.uk.
What is the best time of year to climb Ben Nevis?
Ben Nevis can be climbed at any time of year although in winter
it is a significant mountaineering challenge. Most people choose
to climb between May and September when the weather
is at its warmest. We offer private
guiding and weekend
trips to Ben Nevis throughout the year. The summit is generally
snow covered from September to May.
What equipment do I need?
It is vital that you are properly equipped or you will put yourself
and others at risk. The absolute minimum includes: sturdy waterproof
walking boots, breathable waterproof jacket and over trousers,
comfortable walking clothes (no jeans), warm hat, waterproof
gloves, spare fleece, map, compass, first aid kit, 2 litres of
water, food, mobile phone, whistle, backpack.
Other frequently asked questions.
Do people die on Ben Nevis?
Yes! Regularly. The rescue services in the area are operated by
Lochaber Mountain Rescue who are a voluntary organisation and
one of the busiest mountain rescue teams in Britain. They publish
a booklet which details there work which is available in local
shops and pubs. Buy it, learn and support them. In a genuine
emergency the mountain rescue team can be contacted on 999 or
112 and ask for the police who coordinate mountain rescue.
Can I catch the cable car to the top?
No the Gondola runs on Aonoch Mor a mountain a couple of peaks
north of Ben Nevis and the ski area is known as Nevis Range
(hence the confusion).
How many times have you climbed Ben Nevis?
I (Neil) climbed the Ben over 40 times in 2005 and prior to that
i can't remember.
What is the most ridiculous thing you have seen on Ben Nevis?
Don't even ask. Sandals, game of volleyball, naked swedish clients,
walkers completely lost and out of their depth.
Ben Nevis Adventure Summer>>
Ben Nevis Adventure Winter>>
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