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Ben Nevis guides
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About Ben Nevis
- Elevation
- 1,345 m (4,413 ft)
- Country
- United Kingdom
Climbing history
First recorded ascent in 1771. At 1,345m, the highest peak in the British Isles. The North Face offers serious winter climbing. An observatory operated on the summit from 1883-1904. Popular destination with over 150,000 annual visitors.
Notable itineraries
Mountain Track/Tourist Path (1 day): Well-maintained path from Glen Nevis. CMD Arête: Scrambling route via Carn Mor Dearg. North Face: Major winter climbing venue with many routes. Tower Ridge: Classic rock climb.
Weather and best time to go
Weather: During the summer, average temperatures on Ben Nevis hover between 5 ºC and 10 ºC (40 ºF to 50 ºF). Rain is quite common during the peak of summer as are thunderstorms. During the winter, the summit is generally below freezing and snow is not uncommon., Best Time to Visit: June to August, Average Expedition Length 1 day
Currency
British Pound (GBP) is the currency. Credit cards widely accepted in Fort William. No permit required. Free access. Ben Nevis Inn and other accommodation at base.
Languages
Official: English. Scottish Gaelic historically spoken. "Ben Nevis" is Anglicization of Gaelic "Beinn Nibheis." Highland culture strong in area.
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Recommended gear for Ben Nevis
Essentials picked for multi-day treks. Recommended by our expert team.
- Salomon Quest 4 GTX Backpacking Boot (Men's) (trekking boots): View at Campmor
- Leki MCT Vario TA Trekking Poles (trekking poles): View at Campmor
- Osprey Talon 22 Backpack (daypack 30-40L): View at Campmor
- Patagonia Men's Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket (rain shell): View at Patagonia (Impact)
- Patagonia Men's R1 Air Full-Zip Hoody (fleece / mid layer): View at Campmor
- Sawyer Squeeze 32 oz Water Filter System (water filter): View at Campmor
- Global Rescue membership (rescue and evacuation): View at Global Rescue
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