How hard is it to climb Ben Nevis?

Louis Kennedy
Jun 1
7 min read

Updated: 9 hours ago

a useful guide to climbing the Uk's highest mountain

Climbing Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest mountain at 1,345 metres (4,413 feet), is an incredible achievement — but how hard is it really? The answer depends on the route, the weather, your experience, and your preparation. Whether you're a seasoned hillwalker or a first-time mountain-goer, this guide breaks down what to expect when tackling “The Ben.”

The Short Answer

Climbing Ben Nevis is achievable for most people with a reasonable level of fitness — but it’s no walk in the park. The most popular and safest route being the Pony Track (also known as the Tourist Path or Mountain Path). It is a long, sustained ascent and descent that takes 6–9 hours on average and is 17km with 1300m of vertical ascent. This article seeks to discuss how to go about walking up Ben Nevis via this route safely and help you to enjoy your time on Ben Nevis.

The zigzags. High on the "pony track" on Ben Nevis - the easiest route to the summit

What Makes It Challenging?

1. The Distance & Ascent (via the Pony track)

Distance: Around 17 km (10.5 miles) round trip.
Ascent: About 1,300 metres (4,265 feet) of vertical gain. It is not technical, but it’s a big day out. Expect steep sections, uneven ground, and a long descent that tests knees and patience!

2. The Weather

Ben Nevis is known for its rapidly changing and often harsh weather. Even in summer, the summit can be cold, wet, and windy — with snow lingering into May or even June some years. Clear views are a bonus, but never a guarantee.

In winter (usually - any time between October and May), the difficulty increases dramatically. Snow and ice turn the mountain into a serious challenge requiring the use of crampons, specialist "B rated" winter boots, an ice axe, winter skills, and navigation skills. Micro spikes can be useful on icy paths, but on their own. Particularly on hard refrozen snow or in powdery snow are completely ineffective.

The above information and knowledge is essential to ensure safe travel - do not underestimate the path and consider hiring a guide for training or waiting until summer.

Kit Hire Local to Fort William

Crampons, "B rated" boots and an ice axe can be hired from Victoria at Calluna Self Catering in Fort William. (https://www.fortwilliamholiday.co.uk/alan-kimber-kit-hire-fort-william/)

3. Navigation

For the most part the Pony Track is fairly easy to navigate in summer.

Park at the Glen Nevis visitor centre. 5 mins drive from Fort William (paid parking). On a nice day ensure you are early to guarantee parking and a healthy time margin (0800ish). (Pin for visitor centre: https://maps.app.goo.gl/MBuBrjVDLPSQuCiQ7).

Carry a map and download the OS app with subscription (£25 per year subscription).

(Route on Walkhighlands: https://www.walkhighlands.co.uk/maps/map4_2fw.shtml)

Ordanance Survey (OS) App

https://shop.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/maps/os-maps-subscriptions/

The top of Ben Nevis is a vast, rocky plateau. In poor visibility — which is is common, paticularly in winter— navigation becomes tricky.

When walking the Pony Track the last 1.5km or so is spent hand-railing 2-300m+ high cliffs and with winter "cornicing" (wind transported snow potentially building an overhanging lip over the cliffs.) presents a serious danger to those with poor navigation skills. In white out conditions, cornices can be completely invisible and several fatal accidents have occurred due to wrong turns near the summit. Especially near the cliffs on the North Face or those who have got lost on their return journey and ended up straying into the infamous Five Finger Gully (marked on the OS map on Walkhighlands to the south of the Pony Track zigzags.)

4. Fitness & Preparation

You don’t need to be an elite athlete, but a good base level of hill fitness is important. Regular walkers, hikers, and runners tend to fare better. It’s not technical, but it is physically demanding. Having the correct clothing and equipment is also essential - particularly in winter.

Summer Equipment & Clothing list:

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. Misc: - Gloves and hat. - Emergency survival bag (blizzard bag or similar) and group shelter big enough for group. - Head torch.1. Rucksack: - 30L (approximately) with waist and chest straps for added comfort.

Winter Equipment & Clothing list:

What About Other Routes?

While the Pony Track is the easiest route up Ben Nevis, there are several other more demanding options:

CMD Arete (Munro's: Carn Mor Dearg & Ben Nevis) - Grade 1 scramble – A stunning ridge traverse that adds more scrambling, exposure, and a more remote feel.
Tower Ridge, Ledge Route, North East Buttress – Technical mountaineering routes requiring climbing skills, ropework, and a head for heights. These involve rock climbing and technical mountaineering and are generally speaking not suitable for novices without suitable training and specialist climbing equipment.
Looking down the North Face from the summit of Ben Nevis (photo Tim Parkin)

So... Is It Hard?

Yes — and no. Climbing Ben Nevis is a serious mountain day, but with the right preparation, clothing, and conditions, it’s an achievable challenge for many. It’s not technically difficult via the Pony Track, but the length, terrain, weather, and elevation gain make it tougher than many expect.

Tips for a Successful Ascent

Train beforehand with local hills or long walks. If you are concerned, pay careful attention to how you fair walking on rugged terrain and draw comparisons in terms of length and vertical ascent gain.
Check the weather forecast and be flexible. There are plenty of safe local walks if Ben Nevis is not feasible.
Start early to avoid descending in the dark
Pack essentials: waterproofs, warm layers, map/compass, food, and water
Consider a guide for safety, navigation, and a richer experience

Accident & Emergency

In the event of an emergency.

Stay calm
Call 999
Ask for the Police and request Mountain Rescue
Provide the operator with a location (e.g. Upper Ben Nevis Tourist Path) - I highly recommend people download OS locate. If requested and able to, provide the operator with 6 figure grid reference. This consists of 2 letters and six numbers. Example format - AB 123 456. It is vital that all this information is confirmed with operator to ensure they know your exact location for mountain rescue.

OS Locate

OS locate Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=uk.co.ordnancesurvey.oslocate.android&hl=en_GB

Provide first aid dig in for a wait. Get into your emergeny bag and group shelter.

Final Thoughts

Ben Nevis is a mountain that deserves respect — but with the right mindset and preparation, it rewards you with a true sense of accomplishment and some of the most dramatic scenery in the UK.

At Kennedy Mountaineering, we guide individuals and groups up Ben Nevis via the Pony Track, CMD Arete, and technical North Face routes all year round. Whether you're taking your first step into the mountains or chasing your final Munro, we’re here to help you do it safely — and enjoyably.

Why Hire a Guide for the Mountain Path?

The Pony Track may be the most popular route up Ben Nevis, but hiring a guide transforms it from a tough walk into a truly memorable mountain experience.

Here’s what you gain with a guide:

A Richer Journey. Our guides bring the mountain to life with stories. From mountaineering history to local wildlife, and the people who’ve shaped its past — from Victorian scientists to modern-day climbers.
Confidence to Enjoy the Moment. Without worrying about route choices or timings, you can fully immerse yourself in the journey — soaking up the views, taking photos, and enjoying the sense of adventure.
Tailored to You. Whether you’re chasing a personal goal, walking for charity, or celebrating a milestone, we shape the day around your pace and priorities — no pressure, just progress.
Shared Passion. We love this mountain — and we think you will too. Our guides are here to make the day enjoyable, supportive, and full of good energy. Expect encouragement, a few laughs, and probably some snacks!
A Memorable Achievement. Reaching the summit of Ben Nevis isn’t just a tick on the list — it’s a story you’ll tell for years. Having a guide means you get to focus on that story, not the logistics.