Beinn Dubh Walk

Route Description for Beinn Dubh Walk

The Beinn Dubh Walk is a gorgeous hill circuit and a relatively short hillwalk featuring a moderate ascent of a grassy ridge leading up out of Luss, opening to stunning views of Loch Lomond and some of the most distinctive peaks of the Arrochar Alps. The trail unfolds primarily on grassy hills, however, some boggy sections and peat areas on the plateau require suitable, waterproof footwear.

Just a short drive from Glasgow (under an hour), Beinn Dubh is a great way to escape the city for a half-day, and the option to camp at nearby Luss Campsite presents the opportunity to enjoy a camping adventure in combination with the hillwalk.

From the Luss Visitors Centre Car Park, take the road that leads to the centre of the village, soon making a right turn to head towards the school. You’ll spot a path up ahead that ascends several steps, leading to a footbridge above the A82. A grand house on the far side has a kissing-gate to its left, which you’ll cross before an abrupt right-hand turn over a stile to head uphill. Traverse the field that sprawls behind the house, looking for a gate that sits on the edge of the woods.

Pass through the gate and begin a pleasant climb on a grassy path through woodlands. As you walk, peek over your shoulder for the beautiful views of Loch Lomond and Glenn Luss that begin to rise at your back. Another gate appears, which you’ll pass through, sticking to the main path on the left-side that traces a fence. You’ll now begin your ascent up the ridge by following this trail as you emerge from the trees.

Catch your breath as the ascent leads to a flat stretch where further views of Ben Lomond won’t disappoint. Prepare for another climb as the path leads on a steady rise up the ridge and through another stile. If you’ve got a camera or phone handy, pause to snap some shots of Loch Lomond enveloped in charming woodlands from this excellent vantage point at the loch’s foot. Make for the small cairn that sits atop the ridge, where you’ll find incredible views of the Arrochar Alps, most notably, The Cobbler, and the highest peak of the alps, Beinn Ìme (1,011 m).

Having completed this section of ascent, continue the path on the high ground that unfolds ahead. You’ll likely encounter some peaty areas on this next section as you veer left, maintaining the course above Coire na h-Eanachan. Fix your eyes on a small cairn that stands atop the summit at 657 m, marking the walk’s highest point. The views of the Arrochar Alps and closeby Doune Hill are absolutely spellbinding from this viewpoint. Enjoy them before embarking on your descent.

Take the path which leads past another cairn and then dips to reach Mid Hill. The trail of descent mirrors the southeast ridge and soon joins a series of steep slopes which drop to Glen Striddle. Continue the trail, reaching a stile crossing at a fence before heading through a gate found in a drystone wall. Spot the road up Glen Luss, turning left on it to continue above the Striddle Burn on a pretty bridge. Walk for just under 3.2 km on this minor road until you reach a signpost for a wooden footpath, found nearby the grand house from the start of the walk. Continue along the trail on the left, returning to Luss by crossing the footbridge over the A82 once more. The path eventually leads back to the Visitors Centre car park where the walk began.

Insider Hints for Beinn Dubh Walk

• The Luss Visitor Centre is a family-run operation featuring the history of the village of Luss and the history of legendary Loch Lomond. Pop in for a visit either before or after your walk to take in some of the displays.
• Parking at the Visitor Centre is enforced Monday to Sunday 9 am-6 pm and costs £1 per hour
• Toilets are available at the Visitor Centre with a 30 pence charge.
• The Luss Campsite offers a wide range of camping pitches on the shores of Loch Lomond. You can camp here for £7 per person, per night