Weather still dictating little activity, but modest forecast meant a look towards Loch Lomond might be profitable. Ben Vane looked reasonable from a navigational point of view, if forecast held, so off I went hoping to get a decent hike in after the dearth so far this year.
I pretty much followed the WalkHighlands route, parking at Inveruglas Visitor centre - no signs of any parking payment machines.
I enjoyed the walk up the road towards Loch Sloy dam, as the sun shone and A'Chrois cut an impressive figure to the south. Having crossed the bridge, my next task was to make sure I found the track heading onto the hill and thankfully a group of walkers and their dog, led the way, ensuring I didn't walk straight past. This first stretch is certainly mushy, but gradually improves, though the developing track is also quite rough here and there till one hits the steeper slopes of the hill proper.
The route is well defined, but steep much of the way, occassionally requiring a wee scramble here and there, but nothing too exciting. As mentioned, there are a few false dawns before reaching the top. The last 100m, or so, of ascent were in gradually deepening, slushy, slippy snow making it more interesting clambering up the rocky stuff before it flattens then descends a little. before another tricky wee climb to the top, which caused one of a group of lads I'd caught up with, to decline the last wee challenge.
Some fine views of the surrounding Arrochar Alps and other peaks, before heading off the top, for a warm brew. Heading down was uncomplicated, other than a shower of snow, then rain, before clearing again to give some sun on my back, down the road to the car in just under the four hours. A decent enough hike for me, despite not being the higest.
Share your personal walking route experiences in Scotland, and comment on other peoples' reports.
Warning
Please note that hillwalking when there is snow lying requires an ice-axe, crampons and the knowledge, experience and skill to use them correctly. Summer routes may not be viable or appropriate in winter. See winter information on our skills and safety pages for more information.
Ben Vane
Ben Vane
by JimboJim » Fri May 31, 2013 10:55 pm
Route description: Ben Vane, from Inveruglas
Munros included on this walk: Ben Vane
Date walked: 19/05/2013
Time taken: 3.9 hours
Distance: 12.5 km
Ascent: 926m
1 person thinks this report is great. Register or Login free to be able to rate and comment on reports (as well as access 1:25000 mapping).- Attachments
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- The start - or end?
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- Lochside.
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- The Dam.
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- Poseur. These sheep always look so superior!
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- Sloy Dam.
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- Yours truly.
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- Lomond.
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- The Cobbler.
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- Other chappies at the top.
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- Beinn Ime.
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- Bealach a'Mhaim and Beinn an Lochan
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- Beinn Narnian.
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- Lochs, Lomond, Arklet and Katrine
Re: Ben Vane
by Stuart Angus » Fri May 31, 2013 11:32 pm


Re: Ben Vane
by mr_ash_37 » Sat Jun 01, 2013 10:11 am
Yip a nice one to conquer! Steep in places well done....
Re: Ben Vane
by JimboJim » Sun Jun 02, 2013 10:35 am
Thanks, Stuart and Mr Ash. Certainly is a good workout and gives rewarding views!
Re: Ben Vane
by gymman47 » Mon Jun 03, 2013 3:34 pm
Nice report and some good pics too. I remember crossing the wee bridge and taking the path too early and climbing up a small hill (mind you it was foggy)
It was only after a half hour and reaching a wee summit I realised this cant be the top already, can it ??? I looked over to my left as the cloud lifted to see this huge mountain before me and realised I was on the wrong hil !!
So well done Jimbo and thanks for the nice pics too.
JP




JP
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