Map & Elevation
About this Route
Conic Hill gives one of Scotland’s most recognisable loch views for a relatively short climb. From Balmaha, woodland gives way to a stepped hillside path and then an open ridge above Loch Lomond’s islands. The line of islands and the hill mark the Highland Boundary Fault, making the view a lesson in the landscape as well as a good reason to stop for breath.
This is the usual out-and-back walk from Balmaha to the popular viewpoint summit. The GPX follows the West Highland Way through the woods and over Bealach Ard, then takes the clearer summit path from the northern flank. It returns the same way. The route measures 4.3 km with 322 m ascent; allow 2–3 hours with stops. The 1h 23m Naismith figure is an estimate of moving time.
The popular summit reached here is the familiar viewpoint above the loch. Conic Hill’s true highest point lies farther northeast along the ridge; that additional ridge walk is not part of this route. Nor does the GPX continue along the West Highland Way towards Drymen or add a lochside circuit.
Expect a sustained climb with many steps. The last rise to the viewpoint is steep and rocky, with a short section where hands may help. In wind, ice or poor visibility it can feel much more serious than the distance suggests. Wear grippy footwear, take warm and waterproof layers and keep children close on the upper ground. If the summit approach is beyond your comfort, turn back on the same path; there are already fine views from the flank of the hill.
For my part, I travel not to go anywhere, but to go. I travel for travel’s sake. The great affair is to move.
Robert Louis Stevenson, Author, talking about the pleasure of travelling on foot
Route Waypoints
Start in the designated visitor car park in Balmaha, near NS 420 908. Find the walking route at the back of the car park and follow the West Highland Way signs towards Conic Hill. Check parking conditions and current visitor facilities before setting off.
Follow the signed path through the trees. At the track junctions, keep to the West Highland Way’s thistle markings as the route turns onto the uphill walking path. The climb becomes steeper and includes many built steps.
Continue out onto the open hillside and climb into the gap between the hills at Bealach Ard. Stay on the main West Highland Way as it bends right around Conic Hill’s northern flank. Keep to the maintained path rather than cutting up the eroded ridge.
Follow the main path along the flank until the clearer summit path branches right. Leave the West Highland Way here and climb towards the viewpoint ridge. The final section is steep and rocky, with a short scramble where hands may be useful.
Reach the popular viewpoint above Loch Lomond and its islands. This GPX turns around here; the true highest point farther northeast is outside this walk. Keep back from steep ground and take care if the summit is windy or crowded.
Descend the summit path to the West Highland Way junction and retrace the path over Bealach Ard. Follow the steps and woodland route back to the same car park. Descending loose or wet rock often takes longer than the ascent suggests.
Essential Tips
The upper path is steep and rough, with a short scramble to the popular viewpoint. Wear footwear with good grip and turn back if wind, ice or your group’s ability makes the last rise unsuitable.
Use the West Highland Way around the northern flank and the clearer summit branch. Avoid cutting straight up the eroded ridge or widening muddy sections. This out-and-back route returns by the same approach.
Carry waterproofs, a warm layer, water and an offline map. The woodland start can feel sheltered while the ridge is windy. Allow 2–3 hours, including stops, and leave enough daylight for the stepped descent.
Use the designated Balmaha car park and check current charges, restrictions and path notices on arrival. Keep dogs controlled around livestock and other visitors, and follow any seasonal access or maintenance directions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Conic Hill take from Balmaha?
Allow around 2–3 hours for this 4.3 km out-and-back route with 322 m ascent. Its 1h 23m Naismith estimate is moving time only. The steep steps, rocky summit rise and busy path can all slow progress.
Does this route reach Conic Hill’s true highest point?
It reaches the popular viewpoint summit used by the standard short Balmaha walk. The true highest point lies farther northeast along the ridge. That additional ridge walk is not included in this GPX.
Is Conic Hill an easy walk?
It is short but involves a sustained stepped climb and a steep, rocky final rise with a short scramble. It requires reasonable fitness and confidence on rough ground. Wind, wet rock and ice can make the upper section much harder.