Overview: Ben A’an (454 m) is affectionately known as “the mountain in miniature.” Despite its modest height, it offers one of the most dramatic and accessible viewpoints in the Trossachs. Its steep but short ascent makes it ideal for a sunrise hike, rewarding early risers with breathtaking dawn views over Loch Katrine, Loch Achray, and the surrounding Highland landscape.
Distance: Approximately 3.7 km (2.3 miles) round trip
Time: 1.5 to 2.5 hours (up and down)
Ascent: Around 340 metres
Grade: Moderate — short but steep
Start/Finish: Ben A’an car park, off the A821 near Loch Achray
Grid Reference: NN 509 072
Postcode for Satnav: FK17 8HY
Sunrise Times for 2025
To experience the sunrise from the summit, plan to arrive at the peak at least 15–20 minutes before the scheduled sunrise time. Here’s a selection of sunrise times for key dates:
- January 1: 08:49 AM
- March 1: 07:05 AM
- May 1: 05:30 AM
- June 1: 04:36 AM
- July 1: 04:35 AM
- August 1: 05:22 AM
- October 1: 07:15 AM
- December 1: 08:26 AM
Route Description
- Start from the Ben A’an car park: Cross the road from the car park and follow the clearly signposted path. The trail begins with a steady climb through mixed woodland.
- Mid-ascent: The path continues over rocky, stepped sections and winds through heather and bracken, offering increasingly expansive views as you gain height. The trail is well-maintained but can be slippery when wet.
- Final approach to the summit: A short, steeper section leads to the dramatic, rocky summit. The official summit is a little behind the popular viewpoint, but most hikers stop at the prominent tor that overlooks Loch Katrine and the surrounding hills.
- Return the same way: Descend carefully — torches or headlamps are essential pre-dawn, and poles can be useful for the descent.
Navigation Notes
- The trail is well-trodden and easy to follow, even in the dark with a good torch.
- OS Map: OL46 (The Trossachs)
- The summit can be exposed — pack warm layers, especially before sunrise.
Access and Facilities
- Parking: Ben A’an car park (Forestry and Land Scotland). Parking charges apply (card/contactless accepted).
- Toilets: None on-site — nearest facilities are in nearby Aberfoyle.
- Safety: Bring a headtorch for early starts. Mobile signal is limited in places. Watch for icy paths in colder months.
Points of Interest
- Sunrise over Loch Katrine: On clear mornings, the sun rises dramatically beyond the loch, lighting up the glens and peaks of the Trossachs.
- Compact challenge: A quick but steep climb, making it a favourite before-breakfast adventure.
Photography: The summit offers iconic views ideal for sunrise photography with minimal effort compared to higher Scottish peaks.
Photo credit: Bermicourt
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