Overview
The ultimate Scottish mountaineering journey. The immediately obvious, central line through the most famous cliff in Scotland, Alpine in length and character. It ranks amongst the grandest routes in the UK.
Route Length
600m
Max Ratio
1:2
Experience Grade
Hard - Grade 4 Scramble
Approach Time (Approximate)
2.5hrs
Total Trip Length
14km
Meeting location
Fort William
Experience Duration
1 Day
Pre-requisites
Strong summer hillwalking fitness. Some experience of scrambling at Grade 2 or above.
Is it for me?
The UK's highest mountain is a giant whaleback from the South, greedily concealing its prized North face. Once approached from the North, the five major mountaineering ridges leading down to the bowl of Coire Les come into view. This route takes the central ridge, obvious from below as a clear ridge rising from the miniature mountain of the Douglas Boulder to the summit of Ben Nevis. This is a tough day, with a big approach, long climb and tiring descent.
We Start our day with the traditional climbers romp through the woods and alongside the Allt a Mhuillinn, amongst other rock climbers with designs on the mighty North Face. After a brief stop to refuel at a climbers shelter, we skirt the Douglas Boulder and use a steep gully then tricky wall to gain the ridge proper.
The route is long, sustained and committing with some airy and exposed moves. The routes most famous feature; The Tower Gap, is a memorable section which although technically avoidable, shouldn't be missed. The qualified and experienced instructor guiding you will give you the opportunity to attack this fine, exposed section of the route head on and in security whilst hundreds of meters above the corrie floor. Beyond it, more mountaineering eventually brings within mere meters of the summit of Ben Nevis. From here, all we have to do is get down!
This is a big day on Ben Nevis and strong standard of fitness is required for the approach and return. However, for those with the energy and determination, there isn't a more satisfying mountaineering experience in the UK
Mountains included in route
Carn Dearg 1221m (optional)
Ben Nevis 1344m (optional)
Additional information
You will be guided on the route by a suitably qualified, fully insured and competent Mountaineering Instructor. All mountaineering equipment required for the route and instruction on its use is included. However, clients must ensure they bring appropriate clothing as listed on our kit list page. In case of dangerous weather conditions an alternative activity or a full refund will be offered. Please read our Terms and Conditions for further information.