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From £120.00

Location: Ben Nevis

Duration: 1 day

Client to Instructor Ratio: 1:3 Max

Ledge Route, Ben Nevis

Welcome to Ledge Route, widely acclaimed as the finest low-grade scrambling route on Ben Nevis. While the actual scrambling elements are relatively straightforward, this route is a grand adventure marked by its considerable length and a series of consistently awe-inspiring situations.

Itinerary

Before Your Course

Your EverydayClimbing mountain guide will be in touch one to two days before your course commences.  This pre-course contact serves to introduce your guide, confirm meeting details, and provide insight into the expected weather conditions. Our guides are readily available to address any queries you may have, ensuring you're well-prepared for your upcoming adventure.

On the Day

Explore the grandeur of Ben Nevis, the United Kingdom's highest mountain. This imposing peak provides climbers with five major mountaineering ridges. Our chosen path leads to the second ridge you encounter, offering a more accessible approach and descent compared to other options. Despite this, the route loses none of its commitment and grandeur, especially in the upper half, where a grand arete awaits.

Our adventure begins with a traditional climb through the enchanting woods alongside the Allt a Mhuillinn, perhaps sharing the path with fellow climbers with aspirations for the North Face. Eventually, practically beneath centre of the cliffs, we veer off the main trail, ascending and entering number 5 Gully. Here, we traverse on an oblique line to reach the starting point of our chosen route.

The route is long and engaging, offering a mix of easy, fun sections along with occasional moments of commitment, airiness, and exposure that will keep you fully engaged. One of the most memorable features is the Gangway, an iconic section that demands your attention. Here, your guide will ensure your safety with rope protection and guide you to the best hand and foot holds.

The setting throughout the route is nothing short of breathtaking. It gracefully winds its way through significantly steeper terrain, providing ample opportunities for quality scrambling. The route leads us to the high summit plateau of Carn Dearg, and from there, it's just a short 20-minute stroll to the summit of Ben Nevis. This makes our route an excellent choice for those seeking to conquer the mountain's highest point.

When it's time to descend, you have two options. You can choose to retrace your steps along the same route, avoiding the trickier sections as required, or opt for a rough descent down the Northern flank of Carn Dearg, leading you to the corrie floor and, shortly afterward, our path back home.

 

Not quite what you're seeking? No problem! We specialise in organising climbing, scrambling, or mountaineering guides for any route in the Scottish Highlands or islands. From the dramatic sea-stacks to the legendary Skye Cuillin, we've got your adventure covered. Feel free to drop us a line with your specific requirements, and we'll promptly respond to your inquiry.

Dates and Prices

Dates

This course is available year-round and can be scheduled on any day that suits your plans.

Feel free to reach out with your specific requirements or contact us using the form below, and we'll promptly respond to your inquiry.

Prices

Our prices are comprehensive and cover the following:

  • Information and support prior to the course
  • An AMI accredited, insured, and fully qualified guide
  • Professional-grade climbing equipment for each participant
  • Mountain safety gear
  • Memorable photos of your adventure

One person - £260

Two people - £310 (£155 per person)

Three people - £360 (£120 per person)

 

Is this for me?

This journey constitutes a significant journey on Ben Nevis and demands a strong level of fitness for both the approach and return. However, for those with the energy and determination, there are few mountain experiences in the UK more satisfying.

Ledge Route offers an excellent starting point for individuals who have never tried scrambling before. It is generally attainable for determined hillwalkers regardless of age or experience. While prior scrambling experience isn't required, having some hillwalking background and being in good physical shape is essential to make the most of this adventure.

Kit list

Required

• 25-35l backpack

• Mountain walking boots

• Walking poles

• Water bottle or hot drink flask (1 litre)

• lunch (around 1000cals.)

• Head torch + spare batteries 

• Thick socks

• Waterproof jacket and trousers 

• Thin fleece or light insulated jacket

• Thick fleece or mid insulated jacket

• Warm hat

• Gloves

• Hiking trousers

• Synthetic/merino base layers

• Personal medication

• Sun lotion & midge repellent/head net

• Waterproof stuff sacks for everything

Optional

• OS map

• Waterproof map case

• Compass (Silva type 4 recommended)

• Gaiters

Provided

• Harness

• Climbing helmet

• Belay device and karabiner

• Emergency shelter (Orange bag)

 

To guarantee your comfort and security throughout our activities, we strongly advise all participants to come prepared with the complete equipment listed. While our activities may proceed even if participants do not have the entire kit list, please be aware that EverydayClimbing and our instructors retain the right to modify the itinerary or conclude the activity early should the absence of essential equipment pose an elevated risk to the group, exceeding acceptable safety standards.

As part of our unwavering commitment to eliminating barriers to outdoor adventures, we offer a selection of equipment available for use by anyone, with no questions asked. Your safety and enjoyment are our top priorities. Just drop us a line and let us know what you require.

Enquire today