Ben Aan (A’an) is one of the most popular walks in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. While not having the height of Ben Lomond, Scotland’s most southerly Munro, if you want stunning views with a shorter climb, this miniature mountain is an epic choice.
It’s enviable position provides spectacular panoramic views of surrounding mountains, glens and lochs.
In this guide we cover details about completing the Ben A’an Hike and a map to help you find your way to one of the best places to visit in Loch lomond.
BEN AAN WALK DETAILS
- Start/End: Ben A’an car park off the A821
- Distance: 3.7km / 2.25 miles
- Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation Gain: 340m
- Terrain: Can be boggy in places. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
WHAT IS BEN AAN?
Ben A’an, also known simply as Ben Aan, is a hill with a pointed peak, located in the heart of the Trossachs, Scotland. The largely treeless summit is 1491ft/454m, and consists of several crags and outcrops.
OVERVIEW OF BEN AAN WALK
The Ben Aan hike begins and ends at a pay and display car park along the A821 (Dukes Pass), between Aberfoyle and Duncraggan.
The first views, overlooking Loch Achray, are visible after walking for about 5 minutes. The climb is quite steep, but the views when you reach the top are worth it.
The path is well defined and straightforward, but can be slippery in heavy rain. Ben Aan weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for any sort of conditions. We encountered some rain in late June, which quickly dissipated.
The return to the car park is along the same route. As it’s downhill, it will only take about 30 minutes.
BEN AAN HIKE MAP
On the map below, you can see the carpark and pathway, with the walking route to the summit.
How to use this map | Click on the top right corner of the map to open a larger version in a new tab or the star to save to your Google Maps.
BEN AAN CAR PARK
The car park for Ben A’an is located off the A821, the Duke’s Pass, considered one of the best drives in Loch Lomond. It’s 6 miles or 15-minute drive north of Aberfoyle. The car park is pay and display and, although it’s been enlarged recently, can still fill up quickly.
Payment via cash or card, with no change given. There are no facilities.
- Up to 1 hour – £2
- Vehicle all day – £5
BEN AAN WALKING ROUTE
STAGE 1
From the car parking area, cross the road and join the signed path which heads straight uphill. When the path swings left, take the path that continues straight ahead amongst the trees.
The route climbs steeply close to the edge of the woods, crossing a footbridge with a stream flowing underneath.
STAGE 2
The trail ascends steeply up the far side of the burn. Cross a small stream via a stepping stone. Further along the path, the trees thin out as you reach a felled area of forest. Non-native conifers have been removed, ready for native trees to be planted.
Ben Aan’s pointed summit comes into view in the distance.. This is where you are headed.
STAGE 3
Once you head past older trees, follow the path as it swings right. There are no markers, but the way is clear, via stones cutting through the trees.
Looking backwards, you can see the zig zagging route that has brought you to this point.
STAGE 4
The main path ascends around the back of the summit, but the views along the way are stunning. Before continuing to the left to reach the summit, walk ahead for your first incredible viewpoint, 13km-long fresh water Loch Katrine.
- Scottish Outlaw Rob Roy MacGregor was born at the head of the loch.
- Queen Victoria famously sailed up the loch in 1869.
- After a visit to Loch Katrine, literary figure Sir Walter Scott, was inspired to write his famed poem “Lady of the Lake”.
STAGE 5
Once you have enjoyed the viewpoint, bear left and follow the last section of the path. There is one last rocky section between you and the summit.
From the prominent rocky summit, you have stunning far-reaching views. Loch Katrine is ahead of you in all its glory. At the foot of the loch above the woodland is Ben Venue. To your left is Loch Achray and part of Loch Venachar, whilst to your west is the prominent summit of Ben Lomond.
Retrace your steps back to the car park, enjoying the amazing views as you walk towards Loch Achray.
TIPS FOR VISITING BEN A’AN
The area is popular with walkers and bird watchers, however here are some tips for having the summit to yourself.
- Plan to arrive as early as possible in the morning, or early evening.
- The best times to walk the trail are May through September.
- Wear sturdy walking shoes and a waterproof jacket.
- Take water and sun protection with you.
- Keep dogs on a leash.
THINGS TO DO NEAR BEN AAN
There are so many wonderful things to do in Loch Lomond. Many of these attractions are nearby, and can be easily reached from Ben A’an on a day trip.
Loch Katrine – Take a cruise aboard Sir Walter Scott Steamship to enjoy the wonderful views from the water.
Balmaha – One of the prettiest villages in Loch Lomond & The Trossachs, and home to another great walk – Conic Hill.
Dukes Pass – This scenic road is part of the newly revitalised Trossachs Trail, and runs from Aberfoyle to Kilmahog, near Callander.
If you have any questions about how to visit Ben Aan in Trossachs National Park, or if you want to share your experience, let us know in the comment section below.
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