Ben Vorlich Walk

Although several routes exist to reach the summit of Ben Vorlich, the route via Loch Sloy offers the fastest climb and is the most popular route among hillwalkers. A good track unfolds up the slopes, making way for a steep climb along the broad ridge to reach the summit. If tackling this hill during the winter months, be sure to come prepared with crampons, an ice axe and a working knowledge of winter hillwalking.

As the most northerly of the Arrochar Alps, Ben Vorlich affords hikers sensational views of the surrounding peaks and is heigh of 3232ft make it one of the most recognizable Scottish Munros. Beyond the spellbinding vistas, this route is also a top pick for its swift ascent, making for a total walking time of just 5 to 6 hours, leaving plenty of time for lunch and a pint after completing the trail.

From the Inveruglas Visitors Center, pick up the path found on the other side of the A82 southwards, just next to the main road. Continue 0.6mi and then make a right onto the tarmac road that unfolds beneath the railway, passing through a gate to access the track. Spot the steep, alluring slopes of Ben Vorlich towering on your right as you begin the climb. Pass the signs for Cowal Way and Glen Loin Loop that mark the path that veers to the left, and instead continue the path, with Ben Vane’s craggy slopes coming into view straight ahead. Maintain the way along the tarmac track that soon bends towards Loch Sloy, continuing 0.6mi before taking the footpath that veers right before reaching the dam itself.

It’s now time to show Ben Vorlich what you’re made of as you begin the unrelenting ascent of the hill. Reward yourself every so often by pausing to soak up the views of Ben Vane and the Loch Sloy Dam from this vantage point, climbing steadily until the gradient begins to ease. Continue up the coire of Lag Dubh, towards the rugged ridge found on Ben Vorlich’s western flank. Views of Loch Lomond are not visible over your shoulder as you press on towards the mountain’s main ridge.

To reach the true summit of Ben Vorlich, maintain the path that leads up to a trig point and cairn, then continue to another cairn 200m further, which you’ll find atop a tiny crag. With the fresh mountain air filling your lungs, fix your eyes on Ben Lui to the north, looking grand and majestic and cheering you on from a distance.

After enjoying some time at the summit, prepare to descend via the same route. Walk back down to the trig point, and re-trace your path of ascent, all the way back to the Inveruglas Visitors Center where the walk began.

Trail Highlights

Ben Vorlich

Towering 3232ft high, Ben Vorlich is a classified Scottish Munro (peaks that exceed 3000ft), located in the southern Scottish highlands and forming part of the Arrochar Alps. A north-south ridge is formed by the mountain’s peaks, and the main ridge features three summits, the central summit being the highest. There are several routes to reach the summit of Ben Vorlich, making it a popular climb for hillwalkers.