Map & Elevation
About this Route
This out-and-back starts at the National Trust for Scotland car park on the Ben Lawers road and reaches Ben Lawers by crossing Beinn Ghlas. The GPX measures 12.2 km, gains 991 m and gives a walking-time estimate of about 4 hours 42 minutes. Allow four to six hours for a steady day, especially if the ridge is windy or you spend time on both summits.
Follow the nature trail uphill from the car park, keeping to the surfaced path through the fenced reserve. Above the enclosure, the path becomes steeper as it climbs the broad southern ridge of Beinn Ghlas. The way is usually clear, but this is open mountain ground and cloud can remove most of the visual clues.
Cross the 1,103 m summit of Beinn Ghlas and descend north-east to the bealach. The path then climbs again, steeply in places, towards Ben Lawers. A final easier section leads to the 1,214 m summit, where the ridge continues towards An Stùc; that continuation is not part of this guide.
Return to the bealach and go back over Beinn Ghlas on the recorded line. There is a bypass path on the western side, but it is not included in this GPX. The route is very exposed to weather and can hold snow well into spring. Carry warm layers, waterproofs and independent navigation. In winter, an ice axe and crampons may be required, together with the experience to use them. Check National Trust parking and access information before setting out.
The high start shortens the day, but it does not make the exposed ridge any less serious in poor weather.
TrailTrack
Route Waypoints
Start from the NTS car park and follow the signed nature trail uphill through the reserve.
Keep to the constructed path through the fenced area, protecting the rare alpine plants beside it.
Leave the enclosure and continue north on the clear but exposed ridge path towards Beinn Ghlas.
The climb steepens and becomes rockier; check the weather before committing to the high ridge.
Cross the 1,103 m summit and follow the path north-east down towards the bealach.
Stay on the main ridge path and begin the second sustained climb towards Ben Lawers.
Reach the 1,214 m summit. Do not continue towards An Stùc; turn back along the same ridge.
Retrace the route over Beinn Ghlas and descend through the reserve to the car park.
Essential Tips
This GPX returns over Beinn Ghlas rather than using the western bypass, so keep enough energy for the re-ascent.
Stay on the built path through the fenced nature reserve and do not step onto fragile alpine vegetation.
Most of the day is exposed. Carry warm layers and navigation even when the car park is calm and clear.
Winter conditions can require an ice axe and crampons. Do not continue without the equipment and skills for the conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to climb Ben Lawers?
Allow four to six hours for a steady day. The GPX gives a walking-time estimate of about 4 hours 42 minutes, but you'll need more time if the ridge is windy or you spend time on both summits.
Where does the Ben Lawers walk start?
The walk starts at the Ben Lawers National Trust for Scotland car park on the Ben Lawers road. Check NTS parking and access information before you go.
How difficult is the Ben Lawers hike?
It's graded as strenuous. The route covers 12.4 km with 941 m of ascent, and most of the day is exposed to weather on open mountain ground—navigation can be tricky in cloud.