Where Highland Vibes Start Just North of Glasgow
Loch Lomond and The Trossachs might be the most accessible part of the Highlands, but don’t let the easy train connections and visitor centres fool you — this region is full of dramatic peaks, ridge walks, and summit views worthy of a Munro tick.
Whether you’re after a quick leg-stretcher with a big payoff or a full-day mountain mission, these six hikes deliver the best views near Loch Lomond — from famous names to secret spots. Pack your camera, your boots, and your sandwich of choice.
1. Ben A’an – The Mini Mountain With Mega Views
- Distance: ~4km | 1.5–2.5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate (short and steep)
- Start/End: Ben A’an car park (Loch Achray)
- Why It’s Epic:
It’s only 454m high, but the views over Loch Katrine and the surrounding hills feel full-on Alpine. It’s one of Scotland’s best value-for-effort climbs.
- Top Tip: Go for sunrise or golden hour — the summit is made for moody light.
2. Conic Hill – The Highland Line Panorama
- Distance: ~5km | 2–3 hours
- Difficulty: Easy–Moderate
- Start/End: Balmaha car park
- Why It’s Epic:
Walk along the actual Highland Boundary Fault and get a sweeping view of Loch Lomond’s islands. A true beginner-friendly ridge walk.
- Top Tip: Stop at The Oak Tree Inn for coffee and cake afterwards — it’s the law.
3. Ben Lomond via Ptarmigan Ridge
- Distance: ~11km | 4.5–6 hours
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Start/End: Rowardennan car park
- Why It’s Epic:
The most southerly Munro, and one of the most climbed, for good reason. The standard route is a plod — but take the Ptarmigan Ridge and it’s instantly more rewarding.
- Top Tip: Loop it: go up Ptarmigan, down the tourist path. Bring a windproof layer — summit’s breezy.
4. Beinn Dubh & Mid Hill Loop – Luss Hills Highs
- Distance: ~10km | 3.5–4.5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Start/End: Luss village
- Why It’s Epic:
This under-the-radar loop climbs above Luss and offers bird’s-eye views of Loch Lomond’s southern end. It’s grassy, scenic, and relatively quiet.
- Top Tip: Combine with a wander through Luss village — it’s basically a postcard.
5. The Cobbler (Ben Arthur) – Rocky Drama, Big Payoff
- Distance: ~11km | 5–6 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate–Challenging
- Start/End: Succoth car park (Arrochar)
- Why It’s Epic:
One of the most dramatic-looking peaks in the Southern Highlands. You don’t need to “thread the needle” (scramble the summit) to enjoy the epic views from the ridge.
- Top Tip: Go midweek if you can — it’s popular for a reason.
6. Cruach Tairbeirt Ridge Walk
- Distance: ~8km | 3–4 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Start/End: Tarbet
- Why It’s Epic:
A quieter option with classic ridge-top views over Loch Long and Loch Lomond. Underrated and brilliant for spotting wild goats and eagles.
- Top Tip: Take the train to Tarbet for a no-car-needed adventure.
What to Bring for Loch Lomond Walks
- Waterproof jacket (yes, even in July)
- OS Explorer OL39 (Loch Lomond South)
- Good boots — some routes are boggy or rocky
- Snacks + water (limited refill points on trail)
- A camera or phone — these views need to be shared
- Peaky Baggers app to track your peaks and route offline
Why Loch Lomond is Perfect for Weekend Hikers
- 1–2 hour drive/train from Glasgow or Edinburgh
- A mix of low, mid, and high-level walks
- Huge scenic reward with minimal effort
- Great base towns: Balloch, Luss, Balmaha, Arrochar
- Lots of post-hike pub/café potential (a key metric)
Final Thoughts
Loch Lomond might be close to civilisation, but the views feel a million miles away. From ridge-line wanders to rocky Munro climbs, these six hikes prove that you don’t have to go deep into the Highlands for a proper adventure.
Pick your peak, lace up, and get ready to say “wow” at least once per kilometre.
Share Your Summit Shot
Tag your Loch Lomond adventures with #PeakyBaggers, log your climbs in the app, and show us the view from your weekend escape. Bonus points for summit snacks and dramatic skies.
Photo by Robert Keane on Unsplash
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