Ben A’an Walk

Route Description for Ben A’an Walk

From the Ben A’an car park cross the main road to meet a rough track that heads steeply uphill. Approximately 50 m further ahead, the track bends to the left.

You’ll follow the signposted narrow footpath that continues ahead. The path climbs steeply via some wooden steps. The Ben A’an walk provides tremendous views almost instantly, so don’t forget to turn back and look!

The footpath to the top of the Ben A’an Mountain is simple to follow. On the lower slopes, the path follows a small stream before crossing it via a small wooden bridge. Then, before you know it, you’ll cross back via stepping-stones. There are several good spots to stop and admire the views down to Loch Achray and ahead to the pointy summit of Ben A’an.

Closer to the top the path swings to the left to begin the final ascent to the summit. When the path bends around there is an excellent detour off to the right with views down to Loch Katrine to the west.

The remainder of the climb is fairly gentle with only one short, rocky section to negotiate.

From the top the view is super; the length of Loch Katrine can be seen to the west with Ben Venue rising from its foot. Behind Ben Venue, Ben Lomond can be seen in the distance. Loch Achray and part of Loch Venachar can be seen in the opposite direction.

To return to the car park the best option is to retrace your ascent route; enjoy the views as you go!

Walking Route Highlights

Ben A’an

The name Ben Aan is actually a misnomer, which can be traced to Sir Walter Scott. The Scottish novelist dubbed the mountain ‘Ben Aan’, but its original name was actually Am Binnean, which means “small pointed peak” or “the pinnacle” – the perfect name for this small, perfectly formed hill!

Part of an extinct volcano, the sharply pointed peak of Ben Aan is one of the most iconic hills in the Trossachs. In fact, Ben Aan isn’t even a separate hill, but rather a rocky outcrop of the somewhat higher range of Meall Gainmheich. However, walkers have been drawn to Ben Aan for centuries, and it’s not hard to see why. This gorgeous mini mountain is one of the most striking in the region, and although it stands at just 461 m above sea level, it provides a simply incomparable vista of the Trossachs.

Come to Ben Aan in late summer or early autumn to catch the last bloom of the heather and see the leaves start to turn. The views at this time of year are simply stunning, as the hillsides glow with purple and yellow heather and the trees take on rich autumn colors. This is an ideal time for photography, and provides a wonderful, breathtaking day out in the Trossachs.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ben A’an

How long does it take to climb Ben A’an?

It takes approximately 2-3 hours to complete the ascent and descent of Ben Aan, depending on how long you linger at the top to admire the views (and we recommend that you do)!

Is Ben Aan dog-friendly?

The Ben Aan walk is dog-friendly. However, some parts of the trail are steep so your dog will need to be in reasonable shape and be used to walking in the mountains. It’s also best to bring water with you for your dogs, especially on hot days.

What height is Ben A’an?

The summit of Ben Aan is 461 m above sea level, just slightly higher than the iconic, pointed west peak.

What is a Munro mountain?

The term ‘Munro’ is used to describe a mountain in Scotland with a summit of over 915 m above sea level. They are named after Sir Hugh Munro, who began to catalogue them at the end of the 19th century.

How many Munros are there in Scotland?

There are 282 Munros across Scotland.

‘Ben’ or ‘Beinn’ is the Gaelic word for peak, hill or mountain, and forms part of the names of many mountains in Scotland and Ireland.

Check out more amazing walks in Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, like the Ben Venue, Ben Lomond, or Loch Venachar.