The highest mountain in the UK
Ben Nevis attracts a huge number of visitors each year and it’s easy to see why. At 1,344 metres, Britain’s highest mountain is an impressive presence that towers over Fort William. Every year around 400,000 people visit Glen Nevis and around 110,000 people walk to the summit of Ben Nevis.
- To see live images of Ben Nevis click here.
- To view our FAQ's about Ben Nevis click here.
Walking the Ben
The challenge of reaching the summit of Ben Nevis is what draws many people to Lochaber.
If you are reasonably fit and conditions are good you should be able to walk up Ben Nevis in a full day-walk - but you should never take it lightly. Good planning and preparation are vital - conditions can change dramatically even in the best weather.
The Ben Nevis Mountain Path is around 16KM (start to finish) and rises 1,300m, followed by the same height in descent. It is a full mountain walking experience.
If you’re keen to walk up Ben Nevis make sure you are properly prepared - have a look at our FAQ section below for guidance and contact details.
International importance and protection
Ben Nevis isn’t only renowned for its height – it is also important for outstanding scenery, cultural and natural history. The Ben is recognised and protected in many ways - The Ben Nevis and Glen Coe National Scenic Area was set up to recognise and protect the importance of the area. It is also listed as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, and a Special Area of Conservation. PLUS Ben Nevis is a site of national geological importance.
But other interests, like forestry, hydro-electricity plants and the increasing number of visitors put pressure on this special environment.
Members of The Nevis Partnership manage the Ben Nevis area with the aim to balance these interests with a sensible conservation plan. To obtain a copy of the Nevis Strategy and to learn more about the Nevis Partnership visit the Nevis Partnership website: www.nevispartnership.co.uk
To find out more about the geology, culture, history and wildlife of Ben Nevis, please see the informative downloadable guide (– link to PDF of ‘ Britain’s Highest Mountain’)
PDF Downloads 
The Following links can be downloaded and viewed with Adobe Reader. If you don't already have this software then it can be downloaded by clicking on the Get Adobe Reader Graphic.
Further contacts
Glen Nevis Visitor Centre (Ionad Nibheis)
Telephone UK: 01397 705922
email: glen.nevis@highland.gov.uk
