Ben A'an Scotland
A compact Scottish peak offering immense rewards with breathtaking panoramic views over Loch Katrine and the Trossachs.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden light
Ben A'an Scotland
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A compact Scottish peak offering immense rewards with breathtaking panoramic views over Loch Katrine and the Trossachs.
"The views are breathtaking and definitely worth the effort to the top!"
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The path is steep and rocky in parts; walking boots are recommended for grip and ankle support.
⬆️ Don't Underestimate the Climb
While short, the ascent is steep and can be tough on the knees. Take breaks and enjoy the journey!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Summit Panorama
Summit
Panoramic views of Loch Katrine, Loch Achray, and the surrounding Trossachs. Absolutely stunning!
+1
The 'Stairway' Ascent
The main trail
A steep, rocky path that tests your legs but rewards with incredible scenery at every turn.
Loch Katrine Vista
Along the trail and summit
Glimpses and grand views of the iconic Loch Katrine, a jewel of the Trossachs.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer Ben A'an: A Scottish Gem
Timing is Everything for Peak Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The path is steep and rocky in parts; walking boots are recommended for grip and ankle support.
⬆️ Don't Underestimate the Climb
While short, the ascent is steep and can be tough on the knees. Take breaks and enjoy the journey!
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera or phone! The summit views are breathtaking and perfect for photos.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry water, especially on warmer days, as there are no facilities on the trail.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The path is steep and rocky in parts; walking boots are recommended for grip and ankle support.
⬆️ Don't Underestimate the Climb
While short, the ascent is steep and can be tough on the knees. Take breaks and enjoy the journey!
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera or phone! The summit views are breathtaking and perfect for photos.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry water, especially on warmer days, as there are no facilities on the trail.
🗺️ Path is Visible
The trail is generally easy to follow, even if not explicitly marked.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Ben A'an for its 'sensational' and 'breathtaking' summit views, making the steep climb well worth the effort. It's described as a 'cute wee hill' that offers a challenging yet achievable hike for most, with a visible path making navigation straightforward.
"Cute wee hill, only 1 hour 30 mins up, and 30 mins down. Trail is easy (saw lots of small children and no technical aspects to the hike) and views are sensational. Easily reached via Trossachs Explorer bus (only operational July - first week of October). Went on a Sunday in late September ~3-5 PM and the peak was still a bit crowded."
Becca
"90% of the path and very steep. Quite challenging for a beginner but anyone can do it with some encouragement and lots of breaks in between. The views are breathtaking and definitely worth the effort to the top!
The path is not marked but you can’t stray from it as it’s very visible."
Sakura Morimoto
"It took us only 3 hours to complete our hike here at Ben A’AN including our time of rest, enjoying the views, taking photos & videos. For sure, half of the way is much challenging in terms of fitness but a friend with an encouragement & experience can make it happen together. We loved this hike!"
Binod Rokaya Magar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ben A'an is accessible by car, with a car park available. It's also reachable via the Trossachs Explorer bus, which operates seasonally.
Ben A'an is located in the Trossachs National Park, which is a reasonable drive from both Stirling and Edinburgh, making it a popular day trip destination.
The most common way is by driving to the Ben A'an car park. Public transport options like the Trossachs Explorer bus are available during peak season.
While cycling is popular in the Trossachs, the final ascent to Ben A'an is a walking trail and not suitable for bikes. You can cycle to the general area.
Yes, there is a dedicated car park at the base of the Ben A'an trail. It can get busy, especially on weekends.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Ben A'an is a natural attraction and does not require an entrance ticket. Parking may have a fee.
Ben A'an is accessible year-round, 24 hours a day. However, hiking in the dark is not recommended.
Parking at the Ben A'an car park typically incurs a fee. It's advisable to check current rates before your visit.
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on Ben A'an, but they must be kept on a lead, especially around livestock and other visitors.
Yes, many families hike Ben A'an. While steep, the visible path makes it manageable for children with encouragement and breaks.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The hike typically takes about 1.5 to 3 hours round trip, including time for breaks and enjoying the views.
It's considered moderate. The trail is steep and rocky in places, challenging for beginners but achievable with determination.
The summit offers breathtaking panoramic views of Loch Katrine, Loch Achray, and the surrounding Trossachs landscape.
The path is very visible and generally easy to navigate, even if not formally marked.
Wear sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good grip. Layers of clothing are recommended as the weather can change quickly.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early morning for soft light and fewer crowds, or late afternoon for golden hour and sunset.
Absolutely! The changing perspectives of Loch Katrine and the Trossachs provide stunning shots throughout the ascent.
Drone usage may be restricted in national parks. Always check local regulations before flying.
Expansive landscape shots of lochs, mountains, and valleys. It's a photographer's paradise.
The summit itself offers the most iconic panoramic views, but various points along the trail provide excellent photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Beginner Hikers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 The changing angles and light on the water and hills offer endless composition possibilities. Be prepared for a bit of a climb to get to the best vantage points, but the effort is always rewarded with postcard-perfect shots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ascent: A Rewarding Challenge
It's crucial to wear appropriate footwear. Sturdy hiking boots with good grip are highly recommended to navigate the uneven terrain and steep sections safely.
For those seeking a more serene experience, consider an early morning or late afternoon hike. This not only helps avoid the peak crowds but also provides the best light for photography.
+1 Sunrise and sunset hikes are particularly magical, offering a unique perspective of the Trossachs landscape bathed in ethereal light. However, always be prepared for changing weather conditions and carry a headtorch if hiking in low light. Summit Views: A Trossachs Masterpiece
+1 This iconic viewpoint is consistently praised by visitors for its sheer beauty and the sense of accomplishment it brings. The landscape unfolds in a magnificent tapestry of blues and greens, showcasing the wild, untamed beauty of the Scottish Highlands. Photographers will find endless inspiration here. The changing light throughout the day dramatically alters the mood and appearance of the landscape, making it a perfect spot for sunrise, sunset, or even a dramatic midday shot.
+1 The vastness of the view, combined with the intimate details of the lochs and surrounding peaks, creates a truly memorable photographic experience. Many visitors describe the view as 'sensational' and 'worth the effort,' highlighting its impact. Beyond the visual spectacle, the summit offers a moment of tranquility and connection with nature. It's a place to pause, reflect, and soak in the grandeur of Scotland's natural heritage.
The relatively short hike makes this incredible viewpoint accessible to a wide range of visitors, solidifying Ben A'an's reputation as a must-visit spot in the Trossachs. 
Social
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