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. Keep in mind that although Ben Nevis offers options for beginner/intermediate mountaineers to advanced climbers, it is always best to go with a guide as the routes are not always straightforward, especially in winter. Attempting the climb in trainers could be very dangerous as the rocky path can become very slippery and in several places is next to a severe drop, making walking downhill particularly difficult. It is much better to bring too many than not enough. Thanks for stopping by! This is what he told us: “One of the most memorable ascents was guiding a 9-year-old boy and his father in winter. h100 Ben Nevis via The Tourist Path from Achintee, Fort William. You will also need a good waterproof coat, and proper walking boots. We had plenty of snow, and the usual Scottish winter conditions up high. Relevance. When you reach the mountain you can park in a car park right at the base of Ben Nevis (parking costs just 3 GBP / 3.94 USD). He reached the summit in good time – a brilliant achievement. Oh, and we raised over £8,400 for Marie Curie! Even at the height of summer there is a high chance you will still come across snow near the top, and the clouds and drizzle that frequently roll in can cause the temperature to plunge still further. The hard-day’s walk involves a stroll up neighbouring Munro Carn Mor Dearg before a slightly exposed scramble along the knife-edge ridge linking the two mountains. The Novice Walker should not attempt to walk up Ben Nevis between November and May, or during bad or cloudy weather. It stands at over 1,300 metres high with landscapes ranging from rolling hills to steep inclines and jagged slopes. If you have a few days to spare in Scotland, it would be a good idea to plan to go near the beginning of the week so that if the weather turns out to be unsuitable you will still have further opportunities. . It really can make all the difference to how your legs feel. This route is still challenging, and requires plenty of stamina to make it to the top. The experience in each of the seasons will be quite different! Is there anything we could have done to help you? This goes to show that even in the harsh winter conditions, with the help of a certified guide, physical preparation, and determination, almost anyone can climb Ben Nevis! Answer Save. Climbing Ben Nevis when there is snow on the ground or the weather is less than ideal is an entirely different ball game and you should allow up to 8 hours (or more) for the ascent. You may well find that the challenge is too much for you, and that’s okay — if you want a target that’s less intimidating than reaching the summit, there is a lake halfway up the climb that makes a great place to aim for. From here you can drive to Glen Nevis, the valley in which the south and west sides of Ben Nevis sits. You will need full winter kit including Ice Axe and crampons. Well, Ken reminds us: “Scotland isn’t renown for its year-round sunshine and warm temperatures!”. 5 Answers. me and my mate want to climb it this summer, we are non experienced climbers but are relatively fit? More relaxed options include taking the Jacobite Steam train out to Mallaig. During this program, you will usually, The ascent of Ben Nevis is quite straightforward technically (, “Whilst you don’t need to have advanced hill-walking experience, it does require a, As part of your Ben Nevis adventure, you will visit what Ken describes as the. When to climb Ben Nevis. It wasn’t easy by any means, and I had regular bursts of doubt in the months prior to the climb but if I can climb Ben Nevis, there truly is hope for everyone. 1 decade ago. During the warm months, a Ben Nevis ascent can be tackled with little climbing experience, as long as you are physically fit and up for an adventure. Hopefully this article won’t have put you off making an attempt — climbing Ben Nevis is definitely a serious challenge and not to be taken lightly, but as long as the visibility is not too bad and the path can be clearly found, it can be completed by most people. The trail is well-marked, well trodden and quite frankly, hard to miss with the numerous other people snaking their way up the mountain side. Which are the best routes? Furthermore, make sure you have plenty of water and high-energy snacks, as well as a map and compass, which could prove vital should you become lost near the summit. What is climbing Ben Nevis like? You can also choose to go on a longer program, covering more ground around Ben Nevis. It’s more suitable for those with plenty of hill-walking experience and requires a head for heights”. While it is definitely possible for an amateur to reach the summit, the main thing to keep in mind is that Ben Nevis is not to be underestimated. When your chosen day comes, make sure to check the weather again. The issue is that a straight line from the summit to the zigzags on the mountain path takes you straight over the edge of Gardyloo Gully, a steep, icy gully on the north face, so in order to avoid that, you must walk on a bearing of 231 degrees for 150m before then walking on a bearing of 282 degrees to reach the top of the zigzags. At 1,345 m (4,413 ft), the tallest mountain in the British Isles is an inviting peak to climb for those who like a true adventure. Unsubscribe in one click. I emailed the hotel I was staying at (The Lime Tree) and asked for a recommendation.. It’s. Every year, hundreds climb Ben Nevis to raise money for different charitable causes, sponsored by different organizations or by their friends and family. The closest town to Ben Nevis is Fort William which is accessible via the A82. It is a good idea to begin your climb as early in the morning as possible, as the weather often deteriorates as the day goes on. Every year, hundreds climb Ben Nevis to raise money for different charitable causes, sponsored by different organizations or by their friends and family. Weather up the mountain is also unpredictable and … Hear pronunciation Press to hear pronunciation. And for good reason. Moreover, while a small amount of snow on the mountain should not cause you too many problems, the more there is, the more dangerous the climb becomes. An averagely fit walker will take something in excess of four hours. Ask fellow travellers and travel experts here. The Ben Nevis ascent is also a charity challenge favorite. When climbing, take the time to keep checking your map so you know where you are, both for safety’s sake and also so you know how far you’ve come and how far there is to go. TahoeT. While the view from the top is nearly always hidden in clouds, the views from your journey up will astound you and will give you many opportunities to take stunning photos as you take a break from walking. They came back with Atlas Mountaineering. Descending Ben Nevis in summer generally takes around 2½ hours to 3½ hours. He has been working in this area since 2003. The ascent of Ben Nevis is quite straightforward technically (Intermediate level recommended), but it is considerably long and starts almost from sea level. Climbing Ben Nevis is an exciting experience and a great way to discover the beautiful Scottish Highlands and its surrounding “Munros” (mountains over 3000 feet). Ben Nevis is a slog but not technically difficult. h154 Ben Nevis and Carn Mor Dearg from The Nevis Range Mountain Gondola - in February, obliterating the path and forming very dangerous cornices. Finally, bring your camera, as you will definitely want to take photos of the impressive views below. It is rare to get clear views from the top, and indeed the cloud had closed in. However, if you decide to climb Ben Nevis via other routes, there are some discussions to have. It is a difficult and potentially dangerous climb, and takes an average of 4 hours to climb with a further 2-3 hours to climb back down. You can also choose to go on a longer program, covering more ground around Ben Nevis. You can buy and claim online, even after you've left home. During this time we walked 10.32 miles, making 22,197 steps and burned well over 3000 calories. follows the 'Tourist Path' to the summit but it is far from easy - particularly if you are not very experienced. Furthermore, it’s the highest mountain in the UK, a Scottish icon, and a favorite during both summer and winter. Thank you Ken for sharing your tips and experience with Explore-Share.com! He has been working in this area since 2003. This promotional code cannot be used with any other discount offer, including World Nomads Members’ discount for travel insurance policy holders. It is therefore important to get your training in prior to taking on Mount Toubkal; make sure you have trained on hills and steep inclines as well as training on consecutive days - our Mount Toubkal trekking challenge involves trekking for 3 days, for 8-10km daily, … Check out all our options for guided mountain ascents of Ben Nevis. Before you set off, remember to stretch! Climbing the UK’s tallest mountain, which stands at 1,345 m (4,412.73 ft) tall, will give you an enormous sense of achievement. It winds past “Braveheart” car park to Ben Nevis Visitor Centre where the walk begins. The boy did fantastically well! However warm or sunny the weather may be at the base, by the time you get up near the summit the temperature will have dropped dramatically, normally below freezing. My first Ben Nevis climb… 2009! Despite all of the above, I did it. We are in training by walking in the Peak District. For experienced, fit mountain walkers who do not mind easy scrambling but are not climbers, this is the finest way to climb Ben Nevis. The first stage of the climb up Ben Nevis is a relatively easy walk starting from Achintee on the east side of Glen Nevis, approximately 2km from Fort William. So, is it easy to climb Ben Nevis? What he loves the most about his job is “sharing real adventures with the people”. The ascent to Ben Nevis via Tower Ridge is a great option for those who love a nice steep climb and want to practice some rope work. In terms of what to wear, layers are key. Here, Tom Hardie details the one he thinks is best… Ben Nevis via Carn Mor Dearg. If you climb Ben Nevis in June or July you may well find that you’re in summer at the base and in winter at the summit! What skills and equipment do I need to climb Ben Nevis? Given the often wet conditions, you will need to plan your clothing accordingly. A great way to exercise, reach a mountaineering goal, and help the community on each step of the way. Where is Ben Nevis, how tall is Ben Nevis & How do I get there. How long it takes to climb Ben Nevis really depends on how fit you are and how many breaks you take but a rough guide is it will take you around 3½ - 4½ hours to climb it via the Mountain Track in summer under reasonable weather conditions. Whatever month you go in, you will also definitely need to prepare for the freezing temperatures near the top, so make sure you bring gloves and a hat with you. Ben Nevis is the UK’s largest mountain. Follow the advice contained here and you won’t go wrong, I promise. 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