Rising high above Loch Tay, Ben Lawers is the highest mountain across the Southern Highlands, the tenth highest Munro, and one of the most popular peaks for climbers. Just 9 miles north of Killin, Ben Lawers has the most celebrated array of rare mountain plants in the whole of Britain. Many keen climbers and walkers head to the Highlands every year to tackle the 3,984 foot Munro, and it is one of the best walks in Perthshire.
The picturesque Loch Tay offers spectacular views to the south, and the Cairngorms can be seen to the north. If you are planning a hiking trip to Killin, then Ben Lawers is definitely not a route to be missed.
Ben Lawers is a National Nature Reserve and renowned for its arctic-alpine flora. The National Trust for Scotland owns the Munro, and many walkers and hikers visit the area every year. Various wildlife live on the mountain including red deer, ravens, ptarmigan, skylarks, ring ouzels and black grouse.
If you visit Ben Lawers in the winter, you might be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the amazing mountain hares running about the hillside with their bright white cold-weather coats. Ben Lawers boasts seven Munros that all overlook Loch Tay and offering a range of different walking routes, all geared up for different abilities.
Ben Lawers is just 9 miles north of Killin, and there is a high-level car park that is the ideal spot to begin your ascent. There is no public transport to the start of the trail, and there is a charge to use the car park. Hiking to the peak and back is approximately 7 miles / 11km and takes between 4 and 6 hours, but many other routes can be taken instead.
There is no need to reach the summit of Ben Lawers to enjoy the beautiful views and scenic landscapes. The Edramucky Trail is a shorter route and perfect for families to explore the local nature and wildlife. The hills around Ben Lawers also have a rich history which can be discovered on the Killtyrie Hidden History Trail.