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    Ben A’an Walk

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Moderate
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    1.5-2.5h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    4.0 km
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    348 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
    Overall Rating
    This is the average user-submitted overall rating on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the highest.
    9.1
    Physical Difficulty
    This is the average user-submitted rating on the physical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
    Intermediate (Square)
    Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
    Technical Difficulty
    This is the average user-submitted rating on the technical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
    Easy (Circle)
    Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
    Read Reviews
    Directions to Trailhead
    Panorama on Ben A'an hike in Loch Lomond and The Trossachs area in Scotland

    The Ben A’an walk is a fun hike up what is commonly referred to as a mini mountain in Scotland. The Ben A’an walk offers superb views, a steep climb and, a picture perfect (mini) mountain. Views from the top are sensational due to its central position within the Trossachs.

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    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.

    Insider Hints for Ben A’an Walk

    • Bug repellant may be a good idea on a still summer’s day. It’ll allow you to fully enjoy the views at the top.
    • The nearby Tigh Mor Trossachs is a stunning Victorian Building, now home to 76 holiday properties. You need to be a bond-holder to stay here, but it is spectacular!
    • Head out early. We started walking at 8:30 a.m., at which point there was just one other car in the car park. Later, on the same day, the hill was absolutely swarming with people. It is a very popular hike!
    • Look out for the goats!

    Getting to the Ben A’an Walk Trailhead

    To get to the Ben A’an Trailhead, head north from Aberfoyle on the A821 towards Callander. After 9.7 km, and a sharp right-hand bend, park at the Ben A’an car park. Car park costs £3 for the day.

    Route Information

    • When to do

      Year round

    • Backcountry Campsites

      No

    • Toilets

      No

    • Family friendly

      No

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      High

    • Route Type

      Out and back

    Ben A’an Walk Elevation Graph

    Weather Forecast

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    Ben A’an Walk Reviews

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