Ben Lawers National Nature Reserve, located near Killin in Perthshire, is a premier destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. Managed by the National Trust for Scotland, the reserve encompasses approximately 4,500 hectares of the southern and eastern slopes of the Ben Lawers and Tarmachan ranges. It is renowned for its rich biodiversity, including rare arctic-alpine plants and diverse wildlife.
Ben Lawers is celebrated for its exceptional collection of rare arctic-alpine flora, making it one of the most botanically significant sites in Britain. The reserve is home to over 600 species of lichen and various rare plants. Wildlife enthusiasts may encounter red deer, ptarmigan, ravens, ring ouzels, skylarks, and black grouse.
Standing at 1,214 meters (3,984 feet), Ben Lawers is the tenth highest Munro in Scotland. The most popular ascent begins at the Ben Lawers car park, situated at approximately 400 meters elevation, providing a head start for climbers. The route typically includes an initial climb over Beinn Ghlas (1,103 meters), another Munro, before reaching the summit of Ben Lawers.
The trail is well-maintained, with a clear path leading through diverse terrains, including grassy slopes and rocky sections. The round trip is approximately 7 miles (11.3 km) and takes about 5 to 6 hours to complete, depending on fitness levels and weather conditions.
The Ben Lawers car park is the primary starting point for most hikes and is located off the A827 road, about 3 miles east of Killin. A parking fee of £4.00 applies. Please note that there are no toilet facilities on-site; the nearest public restrooms are in Killin or Kenmore.
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