Conic Hill from Balmaha
A short, steep climb on the West Highland Way to one of the best views of Loch Lomond's islands.
- Distance
- 5.3 km
- Ascent
- 370 m
- Time
- 2–2.5 h
- Grade
- Moderate
- Route
- Out and back
- High point
- 361 m
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Route mapped on from OpenStreetMap paths, with heights from EU-DEM terrain data; not yet checked on the ground by TRXO. Added to TRXO on . For planning only: always navigate with an up-to-date map such as OS Explorer or Harvey. How we make our routes.
About this walk
Conic Hill from Balmaha is a moderate 5.3 km out-and-back walk with 370 m of ascent, taking 2 to 2.5 hours. It starts at Balmaha National Park car park (grid reference NS 419 909). The start can be reached by public transport.
Conic Hill sits right on the Highland Boundary Fault, and from the top you can see the line of islands it creates marching across Loch Lomond. It is one of the most popular short climbs in Scotland, on a well-made stretch of the West Highland Way.
The final climb to the summit leaves the main path for a steep, eroded spur; take care in the wet. Dogs are not allowed on the hill during lambing, roughly mid-April to the end of May.
Route
-
1
Through the woods
Leave the back of the car park on the West Highland Way and climb through the forest onto the open hillside.
-
2
The pitched path
Follow the stepped path up the slope below the summit ridge, with views opening up behind you.
-
3
The summit
Where the Way crosses the shoulder, take the steep path left onto the ridge and follow it to the top. Return the same way.
Summit
Conic Hill
361 m
Questions about this walk
- How long does Conic Hill from Balmaha take?
- Most walkers take 2–2.5 hours for the 5.3 km route, which has 370 m of ascent. That allows for short stops; give yourself longer in winter, in poor weather or with a group.
- Where does the walk start, and where can I park?
- It starts at Balmaha National Park car park (grid reference NS 419 909). Large pay and display car park next to the National Park visitor centre.
- Can I get there by public transport?
- Buses from Balloch and Drymen. Check times on Traveline Scotland.
- How hard is it?
- It's graded moderate. Pitched stone path, steep in places; short eroded spur to the summit.
- Can I take my dog?
- Yes, dogs are welcome on this walk. Before you go: Dogs are banned from Conic Hill during the lambing season (roughly mid-April to end of May); follow the signs.
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