What he loves the most about his job is “sharing real adventures with the people”. Travel insurance from WorldNomads.com is available to people from 140 countries. Have a question? As someone who knows Ben Nevis inside out, Ken tells us: “It’s a spectacular mountain. 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. More than one hundred people climbed Ben Nevis at the weekend, to pay tribute to a young man from West Lothian who died from a rare form of cancer.. On Saturday, over 150 people gathered in the West Lothian village of Fauldhouse at 5.50am to board coaches to Britain’s highest mountain as part of a fundraising effort in memory of young Marc Quipp. This area has a lot to offer, from the finest mountains to incredible lochs (lakes) and coasts in the UK. Descending Ben Nevis in summer generally takes around 2½ hours to 3½ hours. can you get to the top without actually 'rock climbing'? 5 Answers. I would have loved to have had the opportunity to attempt Ben Nevis in winter at that age!”. He guides groups throughout the United Kingdom and overseas. You will; therefore, need to prepare for all weather. Most hiking ascents of Ben Nevis start from either the Achintee Inn or the Visitor’s Centre, both in Glen Nevis. Thousands of people climb the UK’s highest mountain every year on a number of different routes. Stroll In The Sunshine In The Palacio De Cristal Gardens, Porto, Three Highlights Of Beautiful Belém, Lisbon, Celebrate Spanish-Style At Valencia’s Craziest Festival: Las Fallas, See The World’s Only Tudor Warship And Much More At Portsmouth Dockyard, Enjoy Panoramas Of Florence From The Pool At The Grand Hotel Minerva. The first ascent of the Ben's first recorded route, … Glen Nevis Restaurant and Bar is another excellent choice, located in Glen Nevis between the Ben Nevis Visitor Centre and the Glen Nevis Youth Hostel. During this time we walked 10.32 miles, making 22,197 steps and burned well over 3000 calories. Check out all our options for guided mountain ascents of Ben Nevis. As long as you take care to keep safe, you will have a brilliant time. However, as long as you are properly prepared and understand the risks involved, there is no reason why you shouldn’t be able to make the climb and have a great time doing so! This Ben Nevis training guide is long, but it’s complete. 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. Ask fellow travellers and travel experts here. Would you like to try out a summer Ben Nevis ascent? Ben Nevis was the first munro I climbed - it's not technically hard, there is a path all the way to the top, it's really just that it goes on for ages! Relevance. The Novice Walker should not attempt to walk up Ben Nevis between November and May, or during bad or cloudy weather. This promotional code cannot be used with any other discount offer, including World Nomads Members’ discount for travel insurance policy holders. 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. You can also choose a program via Tower Ridge. It is called the Tourist Path only because it is the route most people take when they want to climb Ben Nevis - not because it is is easy in any way shape or form. 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. . Climbing Ben Nevis: Finding a Guide. 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! Are there other ways to the summit besides the Mountain Track? follows the 'Tourist Path' to the summit but it is far from easy - particularly if you are not very experienced. This is what this article is about: helping you to choose a route, plan your trip, and reach the summit of Ben Nevis. 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. Ben Nevis is the UK’s largest mountain. 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. The normal time taken to climb to the top by the tourist path is three and a half to five hours - coming down is much faster, between one and a half to two and a half hours. The weather in the Scottish Highlands changes quickly and sometimes dramatically. WOW. These where my first question when trying to research all about this mountain. We had plenty of snow, and the usual Scottish winter conditions up high. To begin with, if you have fair skin you might want to consider bringing sun cream and sunglasses to avoid getting burned or dazzled by the sun. Are you thinking of giving it a go yourself? It’s designed for adventurous travellers with cover for overseas medical, evacuation, baggage and a range of adventure sports and activities. It’s more suitable for those with plenty of hill-walking experience and requires a head for heights”. To find the answer to all of these questions, we spoke with expert guide, Ken. 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. The ultimate guide to climbing Ben Nevis. During this program, you will usually stay at the CIC hut (680 m), the highest mountain hut in the United Kingdom. Ben Nevis, the tallest mountain in the British Isles, is attempted by thousands of people every year. Check the forecast beforehand to make sure the visibility will not be too bad at the top. 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. Furthermore, Ben Nevis can be climbed year-round, although winter climbs (which are popular) are a lot more challenging. Before you set off, remember to stretch! 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. TahoeT. Despite all of the above, I did it. Ben Nevis can be explored during winter or summer. The Ben Nevis ascent is also a charity challenge favorite. Furthermore, many people climb Ben Nevis for the amazing views it gives, of the nearby towns, valleys and lochs. 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 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. Every year, hundreds climb Ben Nevis to raise money for different charitable causes, sponsored by different organizations or by their friends and family. You can also choose to go on a longer program, covering more ground around Ben Nevis. The Mountain Path (also known as the Pony Track or the Tourist Track) is the easiest and most popular route to the Ben Nevis summit. I’m Ellie, I’m 22 and I spent the first 18 years of my life in Portsmouth, UK, before doing a languages degree in Exeter. The boy did fantastically well! But, Ken warns us: “this alternative involves more ascent and a bit of exposure higher up. Most hiking ascents of Ben Nevis start from either the Achintee Inn or theVisitor’s Centre, both in Glen Nevis. 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. In the winter, you can experience freezing temperatures, stronger winds, and snow. Ben Nevis also has surprisingly good phone signal, so it is worth making sure your phone is fully charged in case you get into any difficulty. me and my mate want to climb it this summer, we are non experienced climbers but are relatively fit? We are in training by walking in the Peak District. He has been working in this area since 2003. The Ben Nevis Inn could hardly be more convenient for a post-walk celebratory meal or drink, situated right at the bottom of Ben Nevis at Achintee. 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. Staying Safe When Climbing and Walking up Ben Nevis Mountain. Moreover, be careful you stick to the Mountain Track, as the other routes can be highly dangerous even for experts. Snow obscures the path, meaning you could easily become disorientated and find yourself veering towards hidden drops without realising. A great way to exercise, reach a mountaineering goal, and help the community on each step of the way. What is climbing Ben Nevis like? the weather like in each? Other routes include the Carn Mor Dearg Arête, a tricky ridge only attempted by experienced scramblers and hill walkers. The part of the path immediately before reaching the lake is probably the toughest part to climb, so knowing the lake is ahead should give you the motivation to carry on. Unsubscribe in one click. I cover fitness, nutrition, kit and recovery. It really can make all the difference to how your legs feel. From the A82 roundabout, south of the river bridge is the Glen Nevis Lane. Ken is a British MIC-certified mountain guide. A: Ben is climbed year round but is famous for difficult weather with clouds covering the summit nearly 80% of the time in winter and 50% in summer. 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. 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. Ben Nevis. The ascent of Ben Nevis is quite straightforward technically (Intermediate level recommended), but it is considerably long and starts almost from sea level. I would personally recommend bringing music with you; it can be very motivating when your legs are hurting and you are close to giving up! The closest town to Ben Nevis is Fort William which is accessible via the A82. 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. Follow the advice contained here and you won’t go wrong, I promise. More relaxed options include taking the Jacobite Steam train out to Mallaig. With nearly 120 years of climbing history, ground breaking routes and legendary stories of bravery on the cliffs throughout, the mountain is steeped in history. Ken Crocket and Simon Richardson's book Ben Nevisis an excellent and inspiring chronicle of the highlights of these many adventures through the ages as the sport, culture, standards and approaches to climbing have evolved. What he loves the most about his job is, 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, To climb Ben Nevis, you need to travel to, “this alternative involves more ascent and a bit of exposure higher up. We asked him what his most memorable experience while ascending Ben Nevis was. When your chosen day comes, make sure to check the weather again. Take plenty of water with you and make sure the weather is ok - and I'm sure that you'll be fine. It takes around 4 hours to climb to the top, and 3 hours to get down afterward. My first Ben Nevis climb… 2009! If it is a sunny clear day, all three mountains would have a lot of other walkers going for the summit. . 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. Well, Ken reminds us: When planning the ascent, it is crucial to check the weather forecasts regularly and carefully. When is the best time to climb Ben Nevis? ©2020 Explore-Share - All rights reserved. Where is Ben Nevis, how tall is Ben Nevis & How do I get there. I climbed Ben Nevis, and I really, really enjoyed it. It is much better to bring too many than not enough. Climbing Ben Nevis via the Ledge Route is another option that offers some fun scrambling opportunities. You would be likely to find the summit almost unbearably cold if you were to attempt the ascent in winter. Also the second part of Ben Nevis is a terrain of scree, loose stones which can be hard on a dog’s pads. I spent time in Santiago de Compostela and Valencia on my year abroad, and... (Do a quick search on the following sites), Top Tips For Climbing Ben Nevis As An Amateur, Search Vrbo for the best Holiday Homes & Rentals, 10 Short And Sweet Day Trips From Glasgow, Scotland, 14 Airbnb Houseboats In London - Updated 2021, 15 Best Airbnbs In London (Updated) - Updated 2021, 14 Best London Hotels For New Year's Eve Celebrations, 11 Best Spots For Halal Breakfast In Birmingham, UK. 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). You can also choose to go on a longer program, covering more ground around Ben Nevis. Thank you Ken for sharing your tips and experience with Explore-Share.com! What skills and equipment do I need to climb Ben Nevis? winter climbing courses in the Scottish Highlands. When to climb Ben Nevis. You must also take lots of water as there aren't any streams easily accessible. *For our Canadian and US travellers, unfortunately due to financial services laws, we cannot provide a discount. What’s the weather like in each? You will also need a good waterproof coat, and proper walking boots. 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. If you are feeling more adventurous, Ken recommends rock climbing, sea kayaking, white water rafting, canyoning, mountain biking, and even skiing, in the winter. When planning the ascent, it is crucial to check the weather forecasts regularly and carefully. The Ben Nevis ascent can be done in 1 day in both winter and summer and takes around 8 hours to complete. From here you can drive to Glen Nevis, the valley in which the south and west sides of Ben Nevis sits. The main route up the UK’s highest peak is long, dull and monotonous. 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! Its impressive north face, which can be seen from various points whilst hiking up the mountain path, is alpine in character and scale. When I think of Scotland, I tend to think of haggis, Edinburgh and Ben Nevis. Furthermore, Ben Nevis can be climbed year-round, although winter climbs (which are popular) are a lot more challenging. The summer ascent can be done from May to October, and winter ascents, from November to April. Ken offers some great winter climbing courses in the Scottish Highlands to prepare, and also a 1-day Ben Nevis winter ascent. Allowing for lack of fitness, and multiple rest breaks, the walk will take nearr eight hours. That’s not to say it’s a walk in the park, as it’s still a fairly rock path in places, but there’s no exposure along the … Oh, and we raised over £8,400 for Marie Curie! summer Guided Ascent of Ben Nevis via Tower Ridge. It is lower than the other peaks but the path from Wasdale isn't as good as Ben Nevis tourist track or Snowdon's tourist track. Finally, bring your camera, as you will definitely want to take photos of the impressive views below. It winds past “Braveheart” car park to Ben Nevis Visitor Centre where the walk begins. 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. 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. 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. Even during the summer, you can expect to experience some wet, windy, and cold conditions. The ‘The Mountain Track’: Or otherwise known as the ‘tourist trail’.This is typically the most popular route when people climb Ben Nevis. 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. This is a truly spectacular route incorporating two Munros. 2½ - 3½ hours. 1 decade ago. 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. Climbing Ben Nevis will be an experience that you will never be able to forget. Finally, there are certain to be more people climbing with you if you go in the summer, which makes the walk a lot safer because having people around you will help you not to lose the path. Then check out this summer Guided Ascent of Ben Nevis via Tower Ridge. 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 experience in each of the seasons will be quite different! Here, Tom Hardie details the one he thinks is best… Ben Nevis via Carn Mor Dearg. Ken highlights: “Navigation from the summit trig point of Ben Nevis to the mountain path can be quite tricky in poor visibility and especially so in winter. It took quite a while to ascend - approximately 6 hours. The fitter you are and the more you train prior to the challenge, the more you will enjoy it. The descent from the summit back to your starting point will normally take approx. There is nothing wrong with deciding that you cannot safely climb the mountain; it is much better to postpone it for another occasion than to take too big a risk. Lv 6. There’s not really any face like it in the UK”. You must have good boots as the descent can be very painful on your toes. 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. How hard you will find climbing Ben Nevis will totally depend on your fitness – and the type of exercise you are used to. The weather conditions can include strong winds, freezing temperatures, and thick snow. How hard is it to climb Ben Nevis? Ken recommends: Extra equipment for winter ascents (usually provided by your certified guide): As part of your Ben Nevis adventure, you will visit what Ken describes as the “outdoor capital of the UK”: Fort William. Every year, hundreds climb Ben Nevis to raise money for different charitable causes, sponsored by different organizations or by their friends and family. Is there anything we could have done to help you? 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. You can buy and claim online, even after you've left home. Given the often wet conditions, you will need to plan your clothing accordingly. See our privacy policy for more information on how we use your data. You might also need extra equipment, like crampons and an ice axe (usually provided by your certified guide). 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. As I was travelling solo I decided to find a guide to help me in climbing Ben Nevis – thank goodness. However, this does not mean it is easy. 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). *5% off when you book with our promo code: TRIP101. Occasionally, thunderstorms add a bit of extra excitement to the climb, but all in all, you will enjoy the lush greens of the Scottish Highlands and the glittering lochs that make it famous. However, if you decide to climb Ben Nevis via other routes, there are some discussions to have. Quite a while to ascend - approximately 6 hours an averagely fit Walker will take on., or during bad or cloudy weather we are in training by in. The summer, it is said the summit besides the mountain Track, as other! Starting point will normally take approx with cover for overseas medical, evacuation, baggage and bit. Many than not enough however, this does not mean it is suitable for fit beginners, but also! 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