With a high-level start point, a direct path and fine views, Ben Donich makes an excellent objective for a shorter hillwalk. There is a little rocky ground with a slight scramble down before the summit to add a little character.
Summary
There is a fairly good path for most of the ascent, though it is not continuous on the summit plateau. There is some rocky ground with a short easy scramble at one point. Deep cleft-like cavities beside the path could become a trap when covered in snow.
Terrain
NN227069
Grid ref
7.5km/4.5 miles
Distance
Grade
Safety warning: Hillwalking when there is snow or ice lying requires ice-axe, crampons and the ability to use them. Some featured routes can become technical ice climbs. Check out our Winter Skills information provided by the Mountaineering Council of Scotland.
Users'
rating
Public transport
1. From the summit of the Rest and Be Thankful pass, take the B828 towards Lochgoilhead; after a short distance a track on the left is signed for Ben Donich access; there is space to park a short distance along it. The mountain is in view from here; begin the ascent by continuing along the track. After a short distance it reaches a junction; continue straight ahead past the Forestry sign for Gleann Mor.
2. Once beyond the trees a clear path signed for Ben Donich goes off to the left. This well constructed path climbs through a felled area at first before swinging left and passing through some trees to reach a fence with a stile. Cross this; on the far side the path becomes much rougher as it climbs to the right and then zig-zags up to gain a foothold on the fairly indistinct north ridge. There are good views down forested Gleann Mor as well as back over the Rest and Be Thankful to Loch Restil, with Beinn an Lochain towering above it.
3. The path climbs a winding route up the grassy slopes, with one short flattening before an area of undulating ground is reached at around 650 metres. The views continue to be excellent, with The Cobbler taking pride of place. Higher up there are a number of rocky fissures - narrow slit-like openings in the ground, some of which are very deep. Although easily avoided in summer they could cause a hazard if hidden by snow.
4. There is another steeper section of ascent as the hill becomes increasingly rocky. At one point there is a short downwards scramble to negotiate - it is straightforward with care - and this is followed by a short section of ridge made up of rocky blocks. Beyond this is a steep section of path climbs up another grassy slope to reach the beginning of the summit plateau.
5. The path divides at the top of this slope, with branches heading round either side of the plateau area. Neither path is clear all the way to the summit and in misty weather this knolly area can be confusing. Given clear conditions, however, superb views can be enjoyed, taking in summits from ever-graceful Ben Lomond to towering Beinn Ime and Beinn Narnain, as well as the length of Loch Goil. The summit itself, a Corbett at 847 metres, is marked by a triangulation point.
Photo © Graham Lewis (Grinner)
6. It is possible to link Ben Donich with The Brack, another Corbett, but the more usual option is to retrace your steps back to the start.
Photo © Graham Lewis (Grinner)
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