Hiking Ben Nevis with Kids: Route, Tips & Essentials
Hiking Ben Nevis with kids may sound daunting but, with some careful planning and preparation, it can be a great day out for the whole family.
Nestled in the heart of the majestic Scottish Highlands, Ben Nevis is the Crown Jewel of the United Kingdom’s peaks. But it is not just a mountain; it is a promise of adventure and a testament to nature’s grandeur!
We’ve shared our insights, tips, and personal experience to show you that conquering this mighty peak with kids is absolutely possible.
Let’s lace up those hiking boots and hit the trail for an epic adventure – scaling Ben Nevis!
Why Hike Ben Nevis with kids?
Whilst hiking Ben Nevis is physically and mentally challenging, it is also an incredibly rewarding experience for both children and adults. In good weather, it is the perfect environment to connect with nature and develop an appreciation of the great outdoors.
The stunning landscape includes cascading waterfalls, serene lochs, magnificent cliffs and incredible views over the West Coast of Scotland. On a clear day, seeing the Cuillan Hills on Skye is even possible.
The challenge of conquering Scotland’s highest peak can create wonder and inspiration for young minds. The hike is also an excellent opportunity to learn about geology, wildlife, and the importance of preserving natural landscapes.
Navigating the trail together is a great bonding experience for families and encourages teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. Quality time away from phones and the distractions of daily life allows parents and children to communicate, exchange stories, and create a unique shared experience.
There is a great sense of accomplishment when you reach the summit, especially with children. The memories created along the way can create lasting family traditions and instil a love for outdoor activities that should last a lifetime.
Hiking Ben Nevis with kids is an exciting blend of physical activity, education, and quality time together, all in one of Scotland’s most breathtaking natural settings.
Facts on Hiking Ben Nevis with Kids
Hiking Ben Nevis with kids is a great adventure, but it comes with unique challenges and considerations. Before embarking on this journey, it is essential to be fully prepared to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for the whole family.
where is Ben Nevis?
Ben Nevis is located next to the bustling tourist town, Fort William, in the Scottish Highlands, United Kingdom. It is part of the Grampian Mountain range, situated in the Lochaber area in the west of Scotland.
Reaching Fort William is conveniently achievable via the scenic A82 road if you have a vehicle.
Additionally, Fort William is accessible through public transport. There are direct train and bus services connecting Fort William with Glasgow and a direct bus route from Inverness.
What is The height of Ben Nevis?
This majestic mountain is actually an extinct ancient volcano. Rising to an elevation of 4,406 feet (1,345 meters) above sea level, the hike to the summit and back typically takes around 7-9 hours. You will cover a distance of approximately 10 miles (16 kilometres), depending on the chosen route.
Best season To hike Ben Nevis with kids
The best season to hike Ben Nevis with kids is typically the summer, from June to September. Milder weather and longer days provide safer and more enjoyable hiking conditions. We do not recommend hiking Ben Nevis with your kids outside of the summer season, as the risk of the weather changing unfavourably rapidly increases. Even the Pony Track can become extremely challenging due to wind, rain or snow and ice conditions.
It is worth knowing that Summer is also peak season, and the trail and summit can become crowded. Setting off as early as possible (before 7am) gives you the best chance of a clear run to the top.
You should always be prepared for unpredictable weather in the Scottish Highlands. Conditions can change rapidly, even during the summer. The weather at the bottom of Ben Nevis can be very different from the top. Therefore dressing in layers and bringing proper gear is crucial to ensure the safety and comfort of you and your children.
Hiking Ben Nevis Can be dangerous!
Ben Nevis is a challenging and potentially dangerous hike, particularly due to its quickly changing weather, steep terrain, and potential for fog and snow, even in summer.
High winds are common, and the trail can rapidly become slippery in rain.
Plan your hike: Ben Nevis with kids
Proper preparation is crucial, including suitable clothing, navigation equipment, and route knowledge, to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. It is essential to check the weather forecast and always be prepared to turn back if conditions deteriorate.
Although hiking Ben Nevis with kids is an exciting adventure, it is also a physical challenge. You must be well-informed and prepared.
Planning your hike will ensure your day gets off to the best start and that you are ready for the challenge ahead.
Where to Park for hiking Ben Nevis
The main vehicle parking for hikers can be found at the Ben Nevis Visitor Centre. The car park serves as the starting point for the main trail. Essential facilities and information are available for those embarking on this exciting journey. It is £8 to park for the day.
Parking here can be limited. We recommend you arrive early to secure a parking spot or take a bus from Fort William.
Ben Nevis Routes with kids
Before hiking, you will need to choose your route to the top. The Pony Track, also known as the Tourist Path, is the only family-friendly route up Ben Nevis. It is also the only one we recommend unless you have extensive experience. It is well-maintained and less steep than other trails.
You are not required to have a guide for this route, as it is pretty much a stone path to follow all the way to the top. That said, you should always take a map and compass and know how to use them.
If you are more experienced and plan on taking another route, you can hire a guide to go with you. You can find out more about these climbing routes from the visitor centre.
Family Hiking Kit List
Ensure your family is properly equipped for hiking and ready for any weather. While nothing beats an outdoor stoor for ensuring the correct fit, you can often find significant discounts by shopping online.
As a minimum, everyone needs; well-fitting waterproof hiking boots, warm clothing to layer, waterproof jacket and trousers, gloves, hat, sun protection and plenty of snacks and water. You will also require a map, compass, and head torch.
Depending on the age of your kids, everyone might carry a rucksack to share the load. Having easy access to your drinks and snacks makes it more likely you will remain fully hydrated.
A backpack style child carrier can be useful for younger children, but be aware that the path is uneven and if you are completing a summit trek, you could be out for around 8hrs.
Check the weather before hiking Ben Nevis
As stated before, Scottish weather can be unpredictable. Check the forecast before you head out on the trek, and be prepared for changing conditions.
Note: Rethink hiking if the Weather Conditions for Ben Nevis are not looking favourable (rain, wind, snow or freezing conditions). Postpone for another time, or if you have set off, stop hiking and return back to the base.
Start hiking Early with kids
The hike to the summit and back takes an average of 7-9 hours. Begin your hike early in the day to allow enough time for breaks and the descent. Take a head torch if the sun sets and you still have a way to go.
Decide your evening meal in advance
Ensure you have food to cook in your accommodation or have made a reservation at a restaurant in advance. We made the mistake and struggled to find dinner with hungry, tired kids. The local areas are very busy in peak season.
Hiking Ben Nevis: Pony Track
The Pony Track, also known as the Tourist or Mountain Path, is the most popular route and the only route suitable for families scaling Ben Nevis.
This is the easiest route but still challenging, giving you a rewarding hike suitable for most fitness levels and ages. It offers a chance to experience the beauty of the Scottish Highlands and reach the summit of the highest UK mountain, an achievement many hikers aspire to. Here’s a description of what you can expect from the hike:
Start of the trail
The trailhead starts at the Ben Nevis visitor centre. Here you can get advice or buy equipment like maps, gloves or a compass. The start of the trail is relatively gentle and well-maintained, making it accessible for families and tourists who are not used to hiking mountains.
The Ascent
The initial stretch is a gentle incline, rising up through the forest and following the course of the Allt Na’Mhuilinn River. As you gain elevation, you’ll encounter stone steps that help you navigate the steeper sections. These steps make the climb more manageable and are often welcome, especially during wet or muddy conditions.
Not long after the steps, you’ll cross a picturesque wooden bridge, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The track becomes more mountainous as you continue along the Pony Track. You’ll pass Lochan Meall an t-Suidhe, a tranquil loch nestled in a rocky amphitheatre. This marks the halfway point of the trek.
Beyond this point, the ascent becomes more challenging as you traverse the rocky terrain of Red Burn. Care should be taken, especially when it’s wet, as the rocks can be slippery.
The path then winds up through the ‘zig-zags’, a series of switchbacks that help mitigate the steepness of the slope.
Further along the trail, you’ll pass through several gullies, which are narrow ravines or channels. Some of these can be steep and rocky, requiring careful footing. Cairns are scattered throughout the ascent.
Cairns, are stacked stone markers to help hikers stay on the correct path, especially in areas where the route might not be as clear. You may add a small stone to these if you wish, but please do not destroy them or be tempted to build your own.
Ben Nevis Summit
After 3 or 4 hours, you’ll reach the summit of Ben Nevis with your kids. Here the landscape transforms into a stark and rocky wilderness.
Congratulations! Enjoy the momentous occasion to be stood on the highest point of the UK. Get your photo by the summit cairn to mark their achievement.
Here, you’ll find the ruins of an old observatory. If the weather is clear, you will be greeted with breathtaking panoramic views of the Scottish Highlands that will be worth every step it took to get there. If you hike in peak season, it could be very busy at the top.
You could celebrate with a well-deserved picnic lunch while enjoying the stunning views. There are no facilities and limited protection from the weather.
The Descent
The descent typically follows the same route as the ascent. Retrace your steps back to the trailhead, completing a rewarding and memorable journey up and down Ben Nevis.
Be careful of your footing, especially if the weather conditions are poor. Stay on the path to avoid the gullies. If you cannot see the path clearly, you MUST navigate your way off the top. Once you have re-traced the ‘zig-zags’ and reached the Red Burn, it is usually under two hours to the Ben Nevis visitor centre.
Our experience hiking Ben Nevis with kids
As a family, we first hiked to the summit of Ben Nevis in late July with kids aged five, six and eight. We had a lot of walking experience but this was the longest distance we had hiked in a day.
We all keenly set off at 0730 from the Ben Nevis visitor centre, having camped overnight. The views as we ascended were stunning. We could even see our tent in the campsite from halfway up!
It was all change, though, as we passed halfway with poor visibility and drizzle. For the final 30 minutes before the summit, we hiked in the cloud.
We navigated and tackled the ascent well, reaching the top in four and a half hours. Despite layering up in warm and waterproof clothing early, the kids quickly got cold as we waited our turn for a summit photo at the cairn.
We initially descended quickly to get out of the cloud before one of our kids twisted an ankle. This ultimately slowed the descent as we had to carry him. Despite this, our entire hike took less than ten hours.
Hiking Ben Nevis with kids: Tips and tricks
Hiking with kids can be both rewarding and challenging. Once you have planned your route, gathered your kit, checked the weather, and are set to arrive early, you are ready to go! Here are some final tips to make the experience smoother:
Plenty of snacks and water
You must plan for a full day of hiking with no facilities en route. As a general rule, you should drink 1 litre of fluid for every two hours you hike. Smaller children will drink less than this.
Some people do replenish their water supply from the waterfall (please use a suitable means of filtering/disinfecting), but you need to ensure you have enough for everyone for the duration of the trek.
Additionally, plenty of energy-fuelled food is needed. We take a selection of sandwiches, fruit, trail bars and sweets when we hike with kids.
Respect the environment
When hiking, it’s essential to respect the environment. Stay on designated trails, take all your rubbish away with you, and avoid disturbing wildlife.
Leave no trace to preserve the beauty and ecosystems of natural areas for future generations to enjoy.
Safety first
‘Safety is paramount when hiking‘
Always inform someone of your hiking plans. Carry essential items like a map, compass, first-aid kit, and extra clothing. Be prepared to turn back if the weather or conditions deteriorate. You are climbing a mountain with steep sections and cliffs – keep an eye on children.
Frequent breaks
Frequent breaks during a hike are essential to rest, rehydrate, and appreciate the surroundings. Kids may need more breaks than adults. Plan short, regular pauses to avoid fatigue and ensure a more enjoyable hiking experience.
Be positive
Stay positive and embrace the journey. Focus on the beauty of nature around you, and remember, it is not a race – take it one step at a time to fully enjoy the hike.
Encourage exploration
When hiking with kids, foster their sense of wonder and curiosity by allowing them to explore their surroundings, from rocks and plants to streams and wildlife, to make the experience both educational and enjoyable.
Make it fun for kids
Turn the hike into an adventure by looking for interesting natural items or wildlife along the way. Give them your undivided attention, play a game, or tell stories while you hike.
Set realistic goals for hiking
Discuss the hike before setting out and set realistic goals together. This can help to prevent kids from becoming overly fatigued or discouraged on the trek. Tailor the plan to match you and your kids’ abilities, and remember, reaching the summit is not the only goal. Enjoy the journey together and know when to end the hike if needed.
Where To Stay when Hiking Ben Nevis With Kids
There are a variety of accommodation options to choose from if you are planning on staying near Ben Nevis. Ultimately your choice will depend on your preferences, budget and availability!
Remember to make reservations well in advance, especially during peak tourist season. Additionally, consider the comfort and safety of your children when choosing your accommodation, and make sure it suits your family’s needs and preferences.
Our Recommendation For Where To Stay:
📍 Glen Nevis Caravan and Camping Park – Situated at the foot of Ben Nevis, this campsite offers excellent facilities, including showers, laundry, a shop and a restaurant & bar which opens for breakfast and evening food. They have fields for caravans and tents, with spaces for camper vans and self-catering caravans and cottages. They welcome families and dogs
We believe camping at Ben Nevis is a great choice for families who enjoy being close to nature. We stayed at this campsite for two nights in our tent. The massive bonus of staying here is its location at the foot of Ben Nevis and within 2 miles of Fort William.
📍 Nevis Bank Inn – This family-friendly hotel is close to the mountain in Fort William. It offers comfortable family rooms, self-catering apartments, an on-site restaurant, and various family amenities.
Family activities near Ben Nevis
If you have enough time to explore the local area before or after hiking Ben Nevis, there is plenty to do. These activities offer a mix of adventure, culture, and natural beauty, making the Ben Nevis area an ideal destination for a memorable family vacation in the Scottish Highlands.
Nevis Range Mountain Resort: Located nearby, this resort offers activities like gondola rides, mountain biking, and a High Wire Adventure ropes course, suitable for older kids and teenagers.
Jacobite Steam Train: Take a scenic ride from Fort William on the Jacobite Steam Train, famously known as the “Hogwarts Express” from the Harry Potter films. The route offers stunning views of the Highlands.
Wildlife Watching: Watch for local wildlife, including red deer, birds of prey, and various plant species. The area around Ben Nevis is rich in natural beauty.
Caledonian Canal: Take a leisurely walk or bike ride along the Caledonian Canal, which passes through Fort William. You can also go boating or enjoy a canal-side picnic.
Explore Fort William: The nearby town of Fort William has charming shops, restaurants, and a waterfront area for strolling and enjoying the picturesque views.
Rock Climbing and Bouldering: There are climbing routes and bouldering opportunities for families with older kids or teens interested in climbing.
Loch Ness: Consider taking a boat tour of nearby Loch Ness, where you can search for the famous Loch Ness Monster while enjoying the stunning Scottish scenery.
Highland Folk Museum: A bit further afield in Newtonmore (about a 1 hour drive from Ben Nevis), this open-air museum offers a glimpse into Highland life over the past few centuries and is a fun, educational outing for families.
Read this for more: >>>Family Hikes In Scotland<<<
Hiking Ben Nevis with Kids FAQ
If Ben Nevis is not calling you yet? Here are a few questions we are often asked that might help:
Can Kids Really Hike Ben Nevis?
Yes, Ben Nevis can be a family-friendly hike if you are planning on using the ‘Pony Track’; it is a well-maintained path and suitable for families with kids.
It is however always essential to plan and prepare adequately, considering the physical endurance of your family members and being mindful of the weather and safety factors.
How long does it take to climb Ben Nevis?
The average time to climb Ben Nevis via the Pony Track, which is the most commonly used route, is approximately 7-9 hours for a round trip. We took around 10 hours, although one of our kids did twist their ankle and required carrying part of the way down!
The duration can vary depending on factors such as your hiking speed, weather conditions, and breaks along the way. A top tip from us is to start your hike early; whatever the time of year, don’t risk getting caught on the hill as it gets dark.
Is Ben Nevis a walk or a climb?
Ben Nevis can be both a demanding walk and a challenging climb depending on your chosen route. It requires some mountaineering skills on all routes, although the Pony Track, which is popular among hikers, is essentially a path all the way to the top.
Can a beginner hike Ben Nevis?
Yes, a beginner can hike Ben Nevis, especially by taking the Pony Track, which is the most accessible route.
Regardless of experience levels, walkers should be prepared for a challenging hike and consider their fitness level, required equipment, competence and weather conditions before attempting the ascent.
Does it cost to climb Ben Nevis?
To Climb Ben Nevis itself is free; you may however incur expenses for parking, transportation, equipment, and accommodation if you choose to stay in the area.
Final Words – Hiking Ben Nevis with Kids
Scaling the tallest mountain in the UK is a fantastic achievement for anyone and should be a cherished family adventure forever. Hiking with kids has so many positives, including strengthening family bonds and instilling a love for the great outdoors in your children.
You’ll discover that this iconic mountain isn’t just for seasoned climbers; it can be an adventure playground for families seeking the perfect blend of challenge, wonder, and the simple joy of exploring. So, pack your bags, embrace the challenge, and make unforgettable memories as you conquer the mighty Ben Nevis with your adventurous family.
For a long hiking family challenge, read:
>>> Trekking The Inca Trail With Kids: An Epic Adventure <<<
>>> Hike To Everest Base Camp With Kids: An Adventure Of A Lifetime <<<
