Ben Challum Walk Route Guide

Route Description for Ben Challum Walk

Ben Challum Walk
The Ben Challum walk is a rewarding Munro ascent that offers wide Highland views and a straightforward ridge route once the higher ground is reached. Although Ben Challum is often considered accessible compared to more technical Munros, walkers should be prepared for boggy lower slopes, exposed terrain, and a sustained climb.

This Ben Challum route gains height steadily, reaching an elevation of 910 m, and provides expansive views over Glen Lochay and across to Ben More and Stob Binnein. With good visibility, the summit of Ben Challum delivers one of the more impressive panoramas in this part of the Southern Highlands.

Route Overview for Ben Challum

The Ben Challum walk begins from a roadside layby along the A82. After crossing the road, follow the lane toward the bridge and continue along the track that skirts farmland before passing remnants of an old chapel and graveyard along the West Highland Way. This historic stretch adds interest early in the Ben Challum walk.

After crossing the railway line, the path becomes less defined as the Ben Challum route begins its climb. Walkers will encounter fence lines, stiles, and some persistently boggy ground. In wetter conditions, parts of the lower Ben Challum slopes can be challenging underfoot, making waterproof boots essential.

Higher up, the route improves as a line of fence posts guides the ascent toward the south summit. Views open quickly from here, and the ridge walk between the south top and the main summit of Ben Challum is one of the highlights of the hike.

Summit Ridge and Views

Reaching the south summit of Ben Challum is an achievement in itself, but the short traverse to the main summit is well worth the effort. The final ascent is brief, and the views from the top extend across multiple Munro groups on clear days.

The summit ridge of Ben Challum is exposed in poor weather, so wind and cloud should be taken seriously. In good conditions, however, this section provides a classic Scottish hillwalking experience.

Practical Planning for the Ben Challum Walk

The Ben Challum walk is best attempted between late spring and early autumn, when daylight hours are longer and boggy sections are more manageable. Snow and ice can linger well into spring, increasing difficulty and risk.

This route is suitable for fit, experienced walkers who are comfortable with navigation and changing mountain conditions. While dogs are often seen on Ben Challum, they should be closely controlled, particularly near livestock and on steep sections.

What’s New at the Ben Challum Walk in 2026

There are no major changes to access, route conditions, or regulations for the Ben Challum walk in 2026. The route remains a popular but straightforward Munro ascent, with the same boggy lower sections and exposed summit ridge as in previous years. Standard hill safety precautions continue to apply.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ben Challum a good first Munro?

Ben Challum is often chosen as an early Munro due to its clear ridge line, but the boggy approach and exposed summit mean it is best suited to walkers with some hill experience.

How long does the Ben Challum walk take?

Most walkers complete the Ben Challum walk in 5–7 hours, depending on conditions, pace, and time spent on the summit.

Is navigation difficult on Ben Challum?

In clear weather, navigation on Ben Challum is relatively straightforward. In poor visibility, careful navigation is required, particularly on the ridge and during the descent.

Explore More Multi-Day Walking in Scotland

If you enjoy classic Munro routes like Ben Challum, you may want to explore self-guided walking holidays in Scotland, which link together iconic Highland landscapes and long-distance trails.