Ben Hiant, Ardnamurchan

Ben Hiant may be only 528m high, but its position as the highest point out on the Ardnamurchan peninsula makes it a superlative viewpoint, taking in miles of coastline and countless islands. It's also a shapely little peak in its own right - a perfect short hillwalk.

Terrain

Hill path throughout; some steeper ground and boggy sections.

Public Transport

None to start.

Start

Parking at NM551641 near its highest point. Open start point in Google Maps for directions.

Hillwalking in Winter

Please note that hillwalking when there is snow lying requires an ice-axe, crampons and the knowledge, experience and skill to use them correctly. All route descriptions and difficulties given here are for summer conditions. See our Winter Essentials page for basic information on the skills, techniques and knowledge needed for winter hillwalking.

Users' reports

As well as reading our description of each walking route, you can read about the experiences of others users on this walk and others.
There are 9 user reports for this walk - click to read them.

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Currently 4.33/5

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Grade (key)

Bog Factor (key)

Walk Statistics

Distance: 4.5km / 2.75 miles
Time (summer conditions): 2 - 3 hours
Ascent: 347m (Profile)
Start Grid Ref: NM551641

Summits Climbed

Sub 2000: Ben Hiant

Maps / GPS

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Accommodation

Walk Description

Stage 1

There is space for several cars to park on the gravel verge where a gated track leaves the where a gated gravel track leaves the B8007 at its highest point. The start of the path isn't immediately clear - it begins from the tiny cairn on the opposite side of the road, slanting right up onto the moorland. From here on, the path is fairly distinct all the way to the summit - certainly much clearer than the path across the hill shown on OS maps which doesn't appear on the ground. The path soon steepens as it climbs rightwards to reach the top of an escarpment.

Stage 2

Once on an escarpment the path swings left, with great views over Loch Sunart. There follows a more gradual pull up a broader grassy slope, before the path steepens once more, with a short rocky section before the ridge is gained.

Stage 3

Now the path leads along a delightful grassy ridge with views of the final, rockier summit cone looking impressive ahead.

Stage 4

After a climb up to a shoulder, the path swings left at the base of the final summit cone. It cuts across the southern slope before curving back right to gain the summit easily from behind. The top is marked by a trig point and a cairn, but it is the sensational views that will be remembered. Kilchoan lies to the west, whilst the islands of Mull, Eigg and Rum are all prominent on a clear day.

Stage 5

The return walk is back the same way - with superb views to enjoy at every step.

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