Overview
For this Sunday’s outing, we are heading up Scotland’s most popular Munro, Ben Lomond, using a classic circular route.
Sunday, 3 May 2026
Meeting Point: Rowardennan Car Park (Pay & Display)
Duration: 5–6 hours
We will begin our ascent via the main tourist path, which offers a steady and well-constructed climb to the 974m summit. Once we've (hopefully) enjoyed the 360-degree views across Loch Lomond and the Trossachs, we will vary our return by descending via the Ptarmigan Ridge.
The descent via Ptarmigan is steeper and more rugged than the way up, providing a bit of a challenge for the knees and far more dramatic vistas of the loch. It’s a fantastic way to experience the "wilder" side of the mountain while avoiding the crowds on the main path.
⚠️ Important Note
Please be aware that this route has not been pre-recced by the walk leader. However, as this is a well-documented and heavily frequented route, the path is clear and we should find our way without any issues.
⚠️ Participant Requirements
Please Note: By joining this walk, you confirm that you have read and understood the information provided. You are responsible for ensuring you have the fitness, equipment and skills required for a mountain walk of this grade and duration.
🎒 Essential Gear
🥾 Footwear: Proper hiking boots are a must—the Ptarmigan descent can be rocky and slippery in places.
👕 Clothing: Be prepared for four seasons in one day. Bring waterproofs, a hat, and gloves for the summit.
🧀 Provisions: High-energy snacks and plenty of fluids.
🅿️ Parking Alert: Rowardennan is a "hotspot" on spring Sundays. The car park fills up incredibly fast, so please try to arrive early to ensure you get a space and are ready to set off at 09:30 sharp. Car Sharing might be an option.
Please confirm your attendance in advance rather than just turning up on the day so we know how many we have in the group.
Walk Leader Tam
To see all pictures in Flickr, click on this link Ben Lomond Circular (Ptarmigan Descent)