Mountains Close to Glasgow: 7 Best Peaks to Explore

Nestled on the doorstep of Glasgow, a domain of mountain majesty calls to the adventurous soul. Explore a tapestry of peaks, each one offering a distinct challenge and reward. From family-friendly hikes to adrenaline-pumping scrambles, these seven remarkable summits will have you captivated by their natural splendor. Prepare to uncover the hidden gems that lie just beyond the city limits – your journey awaits.

Key Points

• Ben Nevis, Scotland’s highest peak at 1,345 meters, offers scenic hiking trails and rock climbing opportunities in the Lochaber region.
• Ben Lomond, a 974-meter Munro, provides spectacular views of Loch Lomond and is part of the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park.
• The Arrochar Alps, featuring Beinn Narnain (926m) and The Cobbler (884m), present challenging hiking trails with scenic ridge paths and mountain profiles.
• Ben A’an, a 1,512-foot peaked summit, offers panoramic views of Loch Katrine and Loch Achray, and is a popular day trip destination.
• The Campsie Hills, with Cort-ma Law (526m) as the highest point, provide accessible yet rewarding hiking trails with steep ascents and panoramic views, just outside Glasgow.

Ben Nevis

As Scotland’s highest peak, Ben Nevis stands tall in the Lochaber region of the Scottish Highlands, near the town of Fort William.

Part of the Grampian Mountains, this iconic mountain boasts an elevation of 1,345 meters. Its summit is a stony plateau with a slight slope to the south and a sheer face to the northeast. The summit elevation is 1,345 metres (4,413 ft) above sea level.

While the popular Pony Track is the easiest route, the mountain requires good fitness and experience, especially in winter.

This volcanic wonder attracts around 125,000 walkers annually, with opportunities for rock climbing along the North Face.

Ben Nevis is a true Scottish treasure, revered for its natural beauty and cultural significance.

Ben Lomond

Situated on the eastern shore of Loch Lomond, Ben Lomond is one of Scotland’s most accessible and frequently climbed mountains. Standing at 974 meters, it’s the southernmost Munro, offering spectacular views of the surrounding hills and loch. The mountain is part of Ben Lomond National Memorial Park and Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. With various hiking trails, including the popular Ben Lomond Mountain Path, the mountain attracts around 30,000 climbers annually. While the ascent can be arduous in parts, the terrain is suitable for families seeking leisurely walks. Conservation efforts address erosion concerns, with walkers encouraged to use surfaced paths. Ben Lomond’s cultural significance is reflected in its Gaelic name and appearances in Scottish folk songs and as namesakes worldwide.

Beinn Narnain & The Cobbler

Nestled in the Arrochar Alps near Arrochar, Scotland, Beinn Narnain and The Cobbler are two enchanting mountain peaks that offer a rewarding hiking experience. A recent birthday led to a hike opportunity. Beinn Narnain is a Munro at 926 meters, while The Cobbler is a Corbett at 884 meters. Both mountains boast stunning views and well-marked trails, though the routes require some scrambling and attention to navigation, especially in changeable weather.

3 Key Features:

1. Beinn Narnain’s “hill of notches” profile and The Cobbler’s distinctive granite peak.
2. A scenic ridge path connecting the two mountains.
3. Moderate to challenging difficulty levels, with Beinn Narnain’s steep sides and The Cobbler’s scrambling sections.

Ben A’an

Towering over the enchanting lochs and glens of the Trossachs, Ben A’an calls hikers with its distinctive peaked summit.

This 1,512-foot mountain offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including Loch Katrine and Loch Achray. The 4.5-mile round trip trail follows scenic burns before a steep climb to the west top. The summit area is largely treeless, featuring several rock outcrops and crags.

While the main summit sees less foot traffic, the viewpoints are equally breathtaking. With sturdy footwear and moderate fitness, you can conquer this “mountain in miniature” in 2.5-3.5 hours.

Though the main summit sees fewer visitors, the viewpoints remain equally breathtaking. Conquer this “mountain in miniature” with moderate fitness in 2.5-3.5 hours.

Just be sure to arrive early, as the limited parking fills up quickly on weekends. Soak in the sweeping vistas and the tranquility of this Trossachs gem.

Campsie Hills (Cort-ma Law)

Just under an hour’s drive north of Glasgow, the Campsie Hills beckon hikers with their accessible yet rewarding trails.

Whether you start from the Crow Road car park or the Campsie Glen waterfall lot, you’ll find:

1. A steep initial ascent past graffiti-covered shelters, leading to cairns that guide you toward the 526m summit.
2. Panoramic views from the trig point, with Glasgow’s northern outskirts and the Glengoyne Distillery in the distance.
3. Challenging terrain, including boggy sections and steep descents, requiring careful navigation, especially in poor weather.

With an average 3-3.5 hour loop, the Campsie Hills offer an excellent day trip for families and experienced hikers alike, just outside Glasgow.

Cathkin Braes

The Cathkin Braes, a prominent green-capped range located just southeast of Glasgow, offer an abundance of recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.

Reaching over 200 meters in elevation, the hills boast the highest point within the city at Queen Mary’s Seat. Explore the mature woodlands, grasslands, and wetlands teeming with diverse wildlife. The area supports foraging habitat for species such as kestrels and owls.

Thrill-seekers can tackle the challenging mountain biking trails, while hikers can enjoy the scenic walking paths. Soak in the panoramic vistas stretching to Ben Lomond, and discover the area’s opulent history, from its use as a Radical War rallying point to its association with Mary, Queen of Scots.

With ample parking and easy access, the Cathkin Braes make for an ideal day trip from Glasgow.

Ben Lui

Situated in northeast Argyll, about 10 km north of the top end of Loch Lomond, Ben Lui is part of the Grampian Mountains within Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park.

Rising to an impressive 1130 meters, this iconic Munro offers a magnificent summit view. The mountain features five well-defined ridges radiating from the summit. Three key features make Ben Lui a challenging yet rewarding climb:

1. Its steep, rocky terrain with well-defined ridges and gullies, including the notable South Gully.
2. The need to cross the River Lochy and navigate through boggy forest areas.
3. Unpredictable weather conditions that can greatly impact the hike’s feasibility.

Despite these challenges, Ben Lui is regarded as one of the finest Munros in the Southern Highlands, attracting experienced climbers and hikers.

Final Words

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a novice explorer, the mountains near Glasgow offer a playground for adventure. From the challenging scrambles of Beinn Narnain to the rewarding vistas of Ben A’an, these peaks are a demonstration of the power of nature. As one local put it, “Climbing these hills is like revealing the secrets of the land – with every step, you uncover a new wonder.” So lace up your boots and get ready to conquer these magnificent mountains.