Ben Nevis Guides
(Beinn Nibheis) The Uk's Highest Mountain. (1345m).
6-10 hours, 17km & 1300m of vertical ascent
A happy team on the highest summit in the UK!
There are 8 zigzags on the top half of the Ben Nevis Pony Track. The good news is the zig zags get shorter with height!
Scramblers descending Ledge Route on Ben Nevis
A happy team on the highest summit in the UK!
Prices start from £250. Groups of 1:8 in summer & 1:6 in winter.
We offer guiding on all routes: the "Pony Track" is the most common and easiest way to the summit, followed by the Carn Mor Dearg Arête (CMD), which is a grade 1 scramble and includes a second munro! For routes on the North Face please see the scrambling page.
More information on Ben Nevis. Welcome to our Guided Ben Nevis Walks. Standing proudly at 1,345 meters, Ben Nevis is the highest peak in the UK, drawing outdoor enthusiasts from near and far. Embark on a memorable journey with our knowledgeable guides and unlock the secrets of this breathtaking landscape. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or a novice, our guided walks promise an experience like no other. We offer guided days via all routes: the easiest and most common being the Pony Track. So called because of its original purpose as a means of supplying a Victorian weather observatory and hotel; the ruins of which sit on the summit to this day. The route is also commonly referred to as the "tourist track" or "mountain path". Now, some 130,000 people venture onto the mountain each year. The majority of which by the pony track! The walk takes an approximate 6-10 hours and 17km with 1300m of vertical ascent. Despite this, it’s the home of sandwich stealing, bag raiding ravens, elegant dancing snow bunting, croaking Ptarmagin and the ancestral home of modern meteorology. When contrasted with the outrageous views, it makes for a day to remember!
Why Choose a Guided Ben Nevis Walk? 1. Expert Knowledge and Safety: Our experienced guides are familiar with the local area and weather conditions of Ben Nevis. They will ensure your safety while revealing fascinating insights about the geography, flora, and fauna of the area 2. Navigational Expertise: The unpredictable weather and challenging trails can make Ben Nevis a daunting exscursion - particularly in winter… With a guide, you’ll never have to worry about getting lost. Our guides lead the way, ensuring a smooth trip through diverse and sometimes tricky landscapes. 3. Tailored Experiences: We understand that every hiker is unique. Our guides can tailor walks to suit your preferences, skill and fitness levels, making the experience enjoyable for everyone, from families to seasoned trekkers. 4. Moral Support and Motivation: Scaling the heights of Ben Nevis can be demanding, both physically and mentally. Our guides are not just leaders; they are your cheerleaders, encouraging you and helping you to push through challenges to reach the summit. 5. Environmental Awareness: Our guides prioritise Leave No Trace principles, educating you on conservation and the importance of preserving the natural beauty of Ben Nevis for future generations. 6. Potential for Wildlife Spotting: With a guide, you’ll have the best chance of spotting local wildlife and getting insightful commentary on the unique ecosystems that thrive in this stunning area: from swooping ravens to tiny snow buntings, this high mountain region is not as devoid of life as you would think! 7. Unforgettable Memories: With the guidance of our expert team, you’ll be free to focus on the beauty around you—capturing those social media worthy photos and creating memories that will last a lifetime. Join Us for an Adventure of a Lifetime Ready to tackle Ben Nevis with the expertise of a seasoned guide? Our guided walks are available year-round and cater to all abilities. Experience the thrill of reaching the summit, take in the breathtaking views, and leave with a sense of accomplishment that only reaching the UK's tallest mountain can bring. Walking Seasons: Summer (May to September): Client Ratio 1:8 Winter (October to April): Client Ratio 1:6. Book your guided Ben Nevis walk today and let us take care of the details while you enjoy the adventure of a lifetime!
Walking Seasons & Client Experience Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure up Ben Nevis? Let’s make sure you’re equipped with all the info you need for the perfect journey! Ideal Walking Season: The best time to walk up the mighty Ben Nevis is during our summer walking season, which runs from May to September. This delightful period offers milder weather and stunning views (as well as the occasional summer rain…), allowing you to fully appreciate the breathtaking landscapes of the Scottish Highlands. While winter can last anywhere from October to April (sometimes even May!) and certainly has its own charm, it can also bring unpredictable conditions that may require specialist gear and experience. Your Experience & Fitness Level: The most popular and easiest route is the “Pony Track” and is suitable for anyone who is fairly fit and healthy (harder routes available, contact us for details if you seek additional challenges!). If you’re used to regular walking and have a positive attitude, you’ll find this adventure both rewarding and achievable! The round trip typically takes 6-10 hours, covering 17 km and a vertical ascent of 1300m. Remember, the fitter you are, the more enjoyable and manageable the journey will be, but don't worry - our friendly guides are here to support you every step of the way! If you're considering a winter ascent, be prepared for a more challenging experience. The winter months can be breathtakingly beautiful, but they demand a higher level of fitness and some prior hill-walking experience. Warm clothing, ice axes, crampons, and sturdy, well-fitted boots are essential to navigate the diverse winter landscape safely. Our guides will ensure you have the expertise and care you need for a safe and exhilarating experience. Whether you choose the sunny summer trails or the serene winter wonderland, we’re here to make your Ben Nevis adventure truly memorable. Let’s take the first step towards reaching new heights together!
Kit List Summer Equipment & Clothing:** 1. Rucksack: - 30L (approximately) with waist and chest straps for added comfort. 2. Waterproofing: - Dry bags or bin bags to protect your belongings from moisture. 3. Footwear: - Comfortable walking boots or shoes with a good grip. 4. Socks: - Comfortable walking socks. 5. Clothing: - Walking trousers (please avoid jeans; tracksuit bottoms are acceptable). - Moisture-wicking T-shirt (avoid cotton). - Fleece. - Waterproof jacket (essential; consider Gore-Tex or similar brands like Macpac or Trespass). - Waterproof trousers (essential; again, Gore-Tex or similar recommended). - Spare fleece or base layer. - Puffer or belay jacket (recommended for emergencies or rest stops). 6. Food & Hydration: - Packed lunch and snacks (energy bars, nuts, sweets, dried meats, etc.). - Minimum of 1L of water (more if temperatures are high). 7. Accessories: - Gloves and hat. - Emergency survival bag. - Head torch. Winter Equipment & Clothing: 1. Rucksack: - 30-40L with waist and chest straps for comfort. 2. Waterproofing: - Dry bags or bin bags to keep your belongings dry. 3. Footwear: - B-rated winter boots suitable for walking on compacted snow (rentable, details below) 4. Technical Gear: - Ice axe (available for rent in Fort William; see rental links on our FAQ page). - Crampons (also available for rent). 5. Comfortable walking socks. 6. Clothing: - Thermal base layers. - Walking trousers (avoid jeans; tracksuit bottoms are acceptable). - Moisture-wicking T-shirt (avoid cotton). - Fleece jacket. - Waterproof jacket (essential; consider Gore-Tex or similar). - Waterproof trousers (essential; Gore-Tex or similar recommended). - Spare fleece or base layer. - Puffer or belay jacket (important for emergencies or rest breaks). 7. Food & Hydration: - Packed lunch and snacks (energy bars, nuts, sweets, dried meats, etc.). - Minimum of 1L of water (Hot Flask of Tea/ Juice) 8. Accessories: - Gloves (bring 2-3 pairs for warmth). - Warm hat. - Emergency survival bag. - Head torch. - Hand warmers. Feel free to reach out if you have further questions or require additional information about the equipment! Safe travels and enjoy your adventure!
Pricing: 1:1: £250 (summer rate) + £30pp (1:8 summer rate) £260 (winter rate) + £40pp (1:6 winter rate)