Climb Conic Hill
Climb Conic Hill
A Loch Lomond Classic Experience
Climbing Conic Hill is one of the most loved activities, not just in Balmaha but the whole of Loch Lomond. Here is some more information about the spectacular path that leads over the hill. With answers to some questions that you may be considering when planning your next visit to Balmaha.
Conic Hill Winter Repairs
This rapid rise in popularity means that the pathways need urgent repair.
The good news is that you will be fine if you plan to climb Conic Hill during spring or summer. The work, commissioned by the National Park, takes place in the winter months to have the lowest impact on visitors.
Here are the details from Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park of the planned closures.
From Tuesday, 1st November 2022 (estimated 4-5 days). For health and safety reasons, the path will be closed to the public while helicopters are transporting approximately 450 tonnes of stone to the site to begin the upgrades.
January-March 2023 (estimated 8-9 weeks). The path will also need to be closed while the second section of the path – from the ford to the forest boundary – is upgraded. The topography of this section of the path means that it will be too dangerous for the works to be carried out while the path remains open to the public. We expect work on this section to begin mid-January, and the closure date will be confirmed.
As an alternative, we strongly recommend visiting the beautiful Cashel Forest, a hidden gem in East Loch Lomond.
Where is Conic Hill?
Conic Hill is close Balmaha (see map above) and is accessed by a footpath leading from the main public car park opposite The Oak Tree Inn. Conic Hill is on the route of the West Highland Way and is climbed as part of the section between Drymen and Balmaha. This is one of the most well known walking routes in Scotland.
Below you can see a less well known view of Conic Hill, this is the view of it from nearby Inchcailloch Island. You can see the pathway winding up the hill.
Conic Hill view from Inchcailloch Island
What are the views from Conic Hill?
From Conic Hill, you can enjoy fantastic views across Loch Lomond, including some of its islands. In the distance, you can see the much larger mountain Ben Lomond, which is close to Rowardennan.
The Highland Boundary Fault line, which runs across Scotland, separates the lowlands and highlands. The fault line runs across the loch, with Conic an excellent vantage point to see where the lowlands become highlands.
Conic Hill during Autumn
How easy is it to climb Conic Hill?
From the Balmaha car park, the pathway goes through the forest, steadily climbing up. Once you've cleared the woods, there are some steps to climb, but then soon you can see behind you some excellent views of the loch. It won't take you too long to climb, but it's a steep ascent. Take it easy; use the excuse to pause and take in the view to allow you to get your breath back. The view rewards you for your effort, and keep thinking about the treats that await you at St Mocha Coffee Shop for when you return!
Conic Hill pathway
When should I climb Conic?
We all love climbing Conic and have enjoyed doing so at sunrise, sunset and all the times in between, on a bright clear day you won’t be disappointed. The scenery is different and equally beautiful through the changing seasons. A New Year climb is a tradition for many (followed by Hot Chocolate in St Mocha!). Take care if icy, though.
Snow on Conic Hill
Part of the West Highland Way
As mentioned, Conic Hill is on the path of the West Highland Way and a highlight of the 96-mile long-distance route from Milngavie to Fort William. If walking it book a stay at the Oak Tree Inn for the perfect experience, and if you arrive early in Balmaha don’t worry, you will have plenty to enjoy.
So many of our guests tell us that they didn't spend enough time in Balmaha on their West Highland Way adventure and come back afterwards to spend some time at The Oak Tree Inn to explore the village and surrounding scenery.
Conic Hill is very popular, so please stick to the main path, as this will help to protect it for many more people to enjoy.
Conic Hill on the West Highland Way
