Ben Nevis Summit, Scotland, UK and Ireland - Trail Running Directory

Ben Nevis Summit

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Last Updated: 11th Sep 2026

Beginner - Intermediate

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Grunt Factor: 36 ?

Gnarl Factor: 66 ?

14.4km

Length of run

1370m

Total Ascent

1355m

Total Descent

Driving Time

Driving Distance

Directions to start

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Trail Map

Type of Run

Urban fringe

Out and Back

Very hilly

Dog Friendly

Open farmlands

Open tussock/grasslands

Open ridges/tops

Run Makeup

25%

50%

Easy Single Track

Moderate Single Track

Technical Single Track

Average Uphill Gradient: +19.20%

Average Downhill Gradient: -19.00%

Garmin Course

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Trailhead

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Estimated Times to Run

8:00

Slow

4:00

Moderate

Fast

GPX File

Topo Map

3D Satellite

Guide

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Scotland's highest peak, Ben Nevis is located just outside Fort William.

The trail starts in Glen Nevis, just across the road from the Youth Hostel. The trail is well marked and crosses some low-level pasture before climbing a rocky trail past a highland lake, a waterfall, and on to the summit.

There can be some patches of snow near the summit.

Return via the same track (there are a couple of shortcuts/alternative tracks).

This trail links up with other trails in the region including an alternative section of the West Highland Way, so there are options to extend your run if desired.

This trail includes the peak Ben Nevis (Beinn Nibheis).

A small loch at around the halfway point, a waterfall a little further along, and the cairn at the summit. Great views on a good day!

At the Visitor Centre.

Transport and parking:

Carpark at the Ben Nevis Visitor Centre, in a few laybys along Ben Nevis Road, or from your nearby accommodation. There is also a bus from Fort William to the start of the trail.

Distance from Fort William:

4 km

Dog friendly:

Yes

Navigation Rating:

Easy.

Navigation Tips:

Easy to navigate in the summertime/good weather. Can become difficult around the summit in poor conditions and GPX is recommended.

Cellphone Coverage:

Unknown.

Suggested Gear List:

Whistle, First aid kit, Extra food for emergencies, Cellphone, Map

Availability of Water:

At the waterfall just after the halfway loch. May not be a reliable source in dryer seasons.

Seasonality Issues:

Prone to difficult weather conditions. Be prepared to turn back before the summit in poor conditions.

Use your judgement:

The information provided is a guide only. Conditions, access and hazards can change, so use your own judgement and check current local information before heading out. Make sure the route or location is suitable for your experience, fitness and equipment, and check any access restrictions or permissions that may apply.

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