Beinn Ghlas · Ben Lawers
Ben Lawers and Beinn Ghlas
Route overview
This classic circular outing climbs two of Perthshire's highest peaks directly from a high-level start. Following well-constructed paths throughout, the route ascends Beinn Ghlas before traversing a scenic ridge to the summit of Ben Lawers. It offers exceptional views over Loch Tay and the surrounding highlands, returning via a convenient western bypass path.
Terrain and underfoot
Underfoot conditions are excellent, featuring well-maintained, constructed gravel paths and stone steps, though sections become increasingly rocky and steep on the upper ridges. The route is highly exposed to mountain weather due to its high-altitude start and ridge-line character. Navigation is straightforward in clear conditions but requires care on the broad summits in poor visibility.
- Distance
- 11.3 km
- Ascent
- 936 m
- Typical time
- 4 - 5 hoursStandard moving time
- Your time
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Getting there and parking
Driving and parking
Ben Lawers and Tarmachan car park
The NTS Ben Lawers and Tarmachan car park is about two miles uphill from the A827. It gets busy on fine summer weekends.
A surfaced car park with separate sections, reached by the narrow hill road above Loch Tay.
- Cost and payment
- Parking costs £4 and is free for NTS members.
- Before you go
- The narrow access road is unsuitable for coaches and large motorhomes.
- Toilets
- There are no toilets at the car park. Use facilities in Killin or Kenmore before driving up.
- Facilities
- There are bike racks and one reserved Blue Badge parking bay.
Sources checked 2 October 2026
- National Trust for Scotland: Ben Lawers visit planning
- Loch Tay Lodges: Ben Lawers parking guide, July 2026
- G4YSS photograph: Ben Lawers payment machine, 19 June 2024
- SOTA visitor report: Ben Lawers car park, June 2024
- Google Maps: Ben Lawers parking frontage measurements
- Google Street View: Ben Lawers roadside entrance, June 2023