The 'zig-zags', Ben Nevis, May 2009

The 'easiest' route up Ben Nevis has various names, The Pony Track, Mountain Path or Tourist Route' which ever you prefer to use it is still a big day out! We usually start at the visitor centre in Glen Nevis which is at an altitude of only 30 odd metres above sea level. There is a well made path that contours Meall an t-Suidhe, the path has quite a few awkward steps on the way up to Lochan Lochan Meall an t-Suidhe . It usually takes about one and a half hours to this point at 600m. Then begins the zigzag path that goes up the west flank of Ben Nevis. The first part of this section has been improved recently and shortly after the crossing of the Red Burn (the half way point) the path becomes more boulder like but still a decent track. After 9 corners in the path we get to the plateau area, 20 mins from the summit. The average time to the summit is around 4-5 hours including stops. It's around 3 hours down, using the same route.

Even though this is the 'easiest' route to the summit of Ben Nevis it should not be under estimated. You will need a reasonable amount of fitness with some prior walking, hiking or trekking experience to enjoy the ascent.

Above Glen Nevis, May 2009

Great views above Glen Nevis looking across to The Mamore mountains. This side of Ben Nevis is managed by The John Muir Trust. The original name for the path is The Pony track, named after the four legged animals who helped transport the materials up the mountain for the weather Observatory built in 1883

Near the half way point,July 2009

Nearly half way and it's flat walking! It usually takes about one and a half hours to an area known by most as 'the half way lochan'. It isn't quite halfway though and it's correct name is Lochan Meall an t-Suidhe

Top of the zig-zags, July 2009

The views get better and better as the path leaves the zig-zags and onto the plateau with only 20 mins to the summit.

Nearly there! May 2009

Up to July there is snow lying on the summit plateau, with large cornices still on the gullies which cut into the summit area. Care should be taken when in bad weather, but there are many days like this!

Celebrating on the summit

The highest point in Britain at 1344m. There are many sunny and warm days on the top but the average temperature difference between Glen Nevis and the top is around 10 degrees centigrade. The final half hour walk across the plateau to the summit can be challenging navigation in bad weather.