Ptarmigan ridge

Overview

Located within the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park and situated on the eastern shores of Loch lomond itself, Ben Lomond is probably one of the busiest mountains in Scotland. This is generally due to the proximity of Glasgow and offers an explanation to the translation of its name (Beacon Hill).

The summit is a fairly short, level topped ridge that offers fantastic views if you are fortunate enough to get a clear day. Views onto Loch Lomond, Loch Sloy reservoir/dam lodged in between the Arrochar Alps and beyond to the Crianlarich Hills with Ben More very distinct at the end of this range to name but a few of the sights to sit and admire.

Approx time taken: 5 hours

Getting There

From Glasgow take the A82 Loch Lomond road until reaching the Balloch roundabout (the one with the metal ducks). Turn right onto the A811 and continue along this road until reaching Drymen. From there take the A837 to Balmaha and continue onwards to reach Rowardennan (care should be taken on this road as it is very narrow and not in the best of conditions).

Route Description

From the car park at Rowardennan head north for roughly one mile along the private road until reaching Ardress. From here veer right, following the path above the Ardress burn until reaching the style. Continue up a very step intermittent winding path leading to Tom Fithich. Continue north across the fairly level track on Ptarmigan gradually changing your bearing to north-east as the track heads towards the Bealach Buidhe on the north-west ridge of Ben Lomond. Continue onwards for roughly 500 yards where you bear east-south-east at the beginning of the outcrops. The path steepens considerably as you weave your way through the rocks on the final push to the summit. The summit will probably be fairly busy with the people that have came via the trade route.

Descend either by the way you came or down the prodominant path (trade route) that heads back down in a south-easterly direction.

Essential Gear

Summer conditions: Backpack, walking boots/trainers, hat, gloves, water, food, waterproofs(your in Scotland you can bet it is going to rain at some point), map, compass, first aid kit, penknife, spare socks, walking poles can be good to ease the jarring on the old knees and your camera.

Winter conditions: All of the above and ice axe, crampons, helmet and rope.

Images

View Ptarmigan ridge Image Gallery - 13 Images