Ben A’an Walk
View PhotosBen A’an Walk
Difficulty Rating:
The Ben A’an walk is a fun hike up what is commonly referred to as a mini mountain in Scotland. The Ben A’an walk offers superb views, a steep climb and, a picture perfect (mini) mountain. Views from the top are sensational due to its central position within the Trossachs.
Getting there
To get to the Ben A’an Trailhead, head north from Aberfoyle on the A821 towards Callander. After 6.0mi, and a sharp right-hand bend, park at the Ben A’an car park. Car park costs £3 for the day.
About
When to do | Year round |
Backcountry Campsites | No |
Toilets | No |
Family friendly | No |
Route Signage | Average |
Crowd Levels | High |
Route Type | Out and back |
Ben A’an Walk
Elevation Graph
Weather
Ben A’an Walking Route Description
From the Ben A’an car park cross the main road to meet a rough track that heads steeply uphill. Approximately 164ft further ahead, the track bends to the left.
You’ll follow the signposted narrow footpath that continues ahead. The path climbs steeply via some wooden steps. The Ben A’an walk provides tremendous views almost instantly, so don’t forget to turn back and look!
The footpath to the top of the Ben A’an Mountain is simple to follow. On the lower slopes, the path follows a small stream before crossing it via a small wooden bridge. Then, before you know it, you’ll cross back via stepping-stones. There are several good spots to stop and admire the views down to Loch Achray and ahead to the pointy summit of Ben A’an.
Closer to the top the path swings to the left to begin the final ascent to the summit. When the path bends around there is an excellent detour off to the right with views down to Loch Katrine to the west.
The remainder of the climb is fairly gentle with only one short, rocky section to negotiate.
From the top the view is super; the length of Loch Katrine can be seen to the west with Ben Venue rising from its foot. Behind Ben Venue, Ben Lomond can be seen in the distance. Loch Achray and part of Loch Venachar can be seen in the opposite direction.
To return to the car park the best option is to retrace your ascent route; enjoy the views as you go!
Walking Route Highlights
Ben A’an
The name Ben Aan is actually a misnomer, which can be traced to Sir Walter Scott. The Scottish novelist dubbed the mountain ‘Ben Aan’, but its original name was actually Am Binnean, which means “small pointed peak” or “the pinnacle” – the perfect name for this small, perfectly formed hill!
Part of an extinct volcano, the sharply pointed peak of Ben Aan is one of the most iconic hills in the Trossachs. In fact, Ben Aan isn’t even a separate hill, but rather a rocky outcrop of the somewhat higher range of Meall Gainmheich. However, walkers have been drawn to Ben Aan for centuries, and it’s not hard to see why. This gorgeous mini mountain is one of the most striking in the region, and although it stands at just 1512ft above sea level, it provides a simply incomparable vista of the Trossachs.
Come to Ben Aan in late summer or early autumn to catch the last bloom of the heather and see the leaves start to turn. The views at this time of year are simply stunning, as the hillsides glow with purple and yellow heather and the trees take on rich autumn colors. This is an ideal time for photography, and provides a wonderful, breathtaking day out in the Trossachs.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ben A’an
How long does it take to climb Ben A’an?
It takes approximately 2-3 hours to complete the ascent and descent of Ben Aan, depending on how long you linger at the top to admire the views (and we recommend that you do)!
Is Ben Aan dog-friendly?
The Ben Aan walk is dog-friendly. However, some parts of the trail are steep so your dog will need to be in reasonable shape and be used to walking in the mountains. It’s also best to bring water with you for your dogs, especially on hot days.
What height is Ben A’an?
The summit of Ben Aan is 1512ft above sea level, just slightly higher than the iconic, pointed west peak.
What is a Munro mountain?
The term ‘Munro’ is used to describe a mountain in Scotland with a summit of over 3002ft above sea level. They are named after Sir Hugh Munro, who began to catalogue them at the end of the 19th century.
How many Munros are there in Scotland?
There are 282 Munros across Scotland.
‘Ben’ or ‘Beinn’ is the Gaelic word for peak, hill or mountain, and forms part of the names of many mountains in Scotland and Ireland.
Check out more amazing walks in Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, like the Ben Venue, Ben Lomond, or Loch Venachar.
Insider Hints
Bug repellant may be a good idea on a still summer’s day. It’ll allow you to fully enjoy the views at the top.
The nearby Tigh Mor Trossachs is a stunning Victorian Building, now home to 76 holiday properties. You need to be a bond-holder to stay here, but it is spectacular!
Head out early. We started walking at 8:30 a.m., at which point there was just one other car in the car park. Later, on the same day, the hill was absolutely swarming with people. It is a very popular hike!
Look out for the goats!
Similar hikes to the Ben A’an Walk hike
Big Tree Walk
The Big Tree Walk is a lovely 1.6mi, waymarked forest trail beside the Benmore Botanic Gardens. The route…
Arrochar Caves Walk
The Arrochar Caves Walk, found in Arrochar, UK, is a 2.8mi trail that leads through a scenic forest,…
Ben Chonzie Walk
The Ben Chonzie walk invites hillwalkers to venture up the highest summit in the immediate area to reach an exciting…
Joe M. 3 years ago
Lovely short hike with a great view. Bit steep in places but still fine for beginners if they take their time. Definitely recommend.
Fran Cine 4 years ago
Great little hill. Spectacular views all around
Chris Glader 4 years ago
It was a tricky climb! Very short, but steep. Awesome exercise with rewarding views. One of my favorites!
Julia A. 5 years ago
Lovely trail. Not that busy before 8 am. Early morning hike works!
Faiz P. 5 years ago
Nice hike with few challenging inclines. Absolutely stunning views, the only problem was the high traffic.
grahamjones 5 years ago
ben aan hike has a really must-see ending to the trail. the views were spectacular.
Jane 6 years ago
Ben Aan hike was nice. But it was really crowded and we were searching for parking spaces for a while.
sunflower0 6 years ago
My small kids got tired and we had to turn back so I wouldn't recommend it for families with children. Would love to go back though because the views looked amazing!
Iris Krukova 6 years ago
You gain quite a bit of elevation on the Ben A'an. It was tougher than my friends told me. But was worth it. Got to see some amazing views of the lakes around.