Conic Hill Loch Lomond
Conic Hill offers spectacular views of Loch Lomond and the Highland Boundary Fault, a rewarding hike for all.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the crowds, better parking
Conic Hill Loch Lomond
Best Time
Beat the crowds, better parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Conic Hill offers spectacular views of Loch Lomond and the Highland Boundary Fault, a rewarding hike for all.
"Conic Hill gives you stunning views of the Eastern end of Loch Lomond from an easily accessible hill."
🚗 Parking Tips
Arrive early for parking at Balmaha Visitor Centre. Small charge applies.
👟 Footwear is Key
Wear sturdy hiking boots; the path can be slippery when wet.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Summit Panorama
Conic Hill Summit
Panoramic views of Loch Lomond and the Highland Boundary Fault. Absolutely worth the climb!
Loch Lomond Shoreline
Balmaha
The charming village of Balmaha offers a perfect starting point and post-hike relaxation by the loch.
Woodland Trails
Lower slopes of Conic Hill
Enjoy a peaceful walk through lush forests before the ascent begins.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Prepare for the Path
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Tips
Arrive early for parking at Balmaha Visitor Centre. Small charge applies.
👟 Footwear is Key
Wear sturdy hiking boots; the path can be slippery when wet.
☀️ Sun Protection
Even on cloudy days, the sun can be strong. Bring sunscreen and a hat.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially on warmer days.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Tips
Arrive early for parking at Balmaha Visitor Centre. Small charge applies.
👟 Footwear is Key
Wear sturdy hiking boots; the path can be slippery when wet.
☀️ Sun Protection
Even on cloudy days, the sun can be strong. Bring sunscreen and a hat.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially on warmer days.
🐶 Dog-Friendly
A great walk for dogs, but keep them on a lead.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Conic Hill for its breathtaking panoramic views of Loch Lomond and the surrounding landscape, calling it a must-see. The well-maintained path makes it accessible for most, though some steeper sections require moderate fitness. While it can get crowded, the experience is widely considered worthwhile, with many recommending it as a top Scottish hike.
"Despite visiting in the middle of August, the weather was not the most favourable, with occasional wind and light rain. This did not deter us from climbing to the top, and the experience was entirely worthwhile. We noticed that some people only climbed halfway up, and even from that point, the views were fantastic. Therefore, we definitely recommend going as far as you can, even if you do not plan to reach the very top."
David Almeida
"Beautiful trail with beautiful views!! It's not too difficult but does have steeper sections. There were a lot of people, but that didn't take away for the experience. It is very well taken care of as well. Took us about 1.5 hours to get up and down taking break into counts so it definitely can be done quicker. Heavily recommended!"
Oliwia R
"Conic hill gives you stunning views of the Eastern end of Loch Lomond from an easily accessible hill at 1184ft. The path to the summit is very well constructed and maintained. The walk starts from Balmaha visitor centre car park and parking is plentiful with a small charge. Conic hill is signposted and easy to follow on a well defined path to the summit. You start walking through a lush, woodland before the trees open up and the views of Loch Lomond can be seen. The view at the top is a jewel and you can see the clear line of the Highland boundary faultline where the division of the highlands and the lowlands join and on a clear day you can see Goat fell on Arran and Ailsa Craig. Conic hill can be enjoyed by most people of reasonable fitness, just be canny on the stone path when it is wet as it can be slippery. There are also amenities in Balmaha with a village shop and the Oak tree inn for food, drink and accommodation."
irvine tweedie
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can drive to Balmaha, which takes about 45-60 minutes from Glasgow. Alternatively, take a train to Balloch and then a bus or taxi to Balmaha.
Yes, there's a visitor centre car park in Balmaha. It can get busy, so arriving early is recommended. There's a small charge for parking.
Yes, you can take a bus from Glasgow or Stirling to Drymen or Balmaha. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.
The most popular route starts from Balmaha, offering a direct and well-marked path. The West Highland Way also passes over Conic Hill.
While the main path is well-maintained, it has steep sections. Those with mobility issues might find it challenging, but the lower parts offer lovely views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there's no entry fee to hike Conic Hill itself. You only pay for parking if you use the Balmaha Visitor Centre car park.
Conic Hill is accessible year-round, from dawn till dusk. The visitor centre and facilities may have specific operating hours.
The national park is free to enter. Specific attractions within the park, like some visitor centres or boat trips, may have charges.
While not strictly necessary due to the clear path, guided tours can enhance your experience by providing historical and ecological insights.
Yes, there are toilets at the Balmaha Visitor Centre, which are reasonably priced.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike to the summit and back typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your fitness level and how often you stop for photos.
It's generally considered a moderate hike. There are steep sections, but the path is well-maintained, making it suitable for most fitness levels. +1
The summit offers stunning panoramic views of Loch Lomond, its islands, and the Highland Boundary Fault. Even halfway up provides fantastic vistas.
Yes, Conic Hill is dog-friendly, but it's essential to keep your dog on a lead, especially on the steeper parts and near other hikers.
Wear comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes or boots. Layers of clothing are recommended as the weather can change quickly.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Balmaha has The Oak Tree Inn, offering food, drinks, and accommodation. There's also a village shop for snacks and supplies.
Absolutely! Pack a picnic to enjoy the views from the summit or a scenic spot along the trail. Remember to take all your litter with you.
The Oak Tree Inn serves traditional pub fare and local dishes. The village shop offers convenience items and snacks.
The Balmaha Visitor Centre has facilities, and nearby cafes like The Pier Cafe offer refreshments.
The Oak Tree Inn typically offers a range of options, including vegetarian dishes. It's always best to check their current menu or call ahead.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit provides the most iconic shots of Loch Lomond. The woodland sections also offer beautiful, atmospheric photography opportunities.
Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting. Midday can be bright but still provides clear views of the landscape.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A polarizing filter can help enhance the colours of the loch and sky.
Drone usage is generally restricted in national parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check the latest regulations for Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park.
Look for the distinct line where the landscape changes. The summit view clearly shows this geological feature stretching across the loch.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and water, and consider a picnic to enjoy at a scenic spot. The Balmaha Visitor Centre has facilities, and the Oak Tree Inn offers kid-friendly meals. A boat trip on Loch Lomond from Balmaha can also be a great addition to a family day out.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Bring your own food and drinks to avoid spending money at cafes or pubs. You can pack a picnic to enjoy at the summit or along the trail. Public transport options are available, which can be more economical than driving if you're coming from further afield.
🐕 Dog Owners
Always keep your dog on a lead, especially on the steeper, rocky sections and when passing other hikers or wildlife. Ensure you bring enough water for your dog, and be prepared to clean up after them. The varied terrain offers a good workout for energetic pups.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The West Highland Way Connection
+1The section of the WHW that crosses Conic Hill is known for its varied terrain, including woodland, open moorland, and the steep ascent/descent. It's a challenging but rewarding part of the trail, offering spectacular views that are a hallmark of the West Highland Way experience. Many hikers find the climb up Conic Hill a great test of their endurance early in their journey.
If you're planning to hike the WHW, be prepared for potentially crowded conditions on Conic Hill, especially during peak season. It's a popular section that many people aim to complete. Remember to be courteous to other walkers and hikers sharing the path.
Geological Significance: The Highland Boundary Fault
To the northwest, you'll see the rugged, mountainous terrain characteristic of the Highlands, while to the southeast, the landscape is gentler, typical of the Lowlands. This geological division is not just visually striking but also represents a significant tectonic boundary that has shaped Scotland's geography over millions of years.
On a clear day, the views from Conic Hill are exceptional, allowing you to trace the fault line as it stretches across Loch Lomond and beyond. It's a fascinating natural phenomenon that adds an extra layer of interest to the already stunning scenery.
Balmaha: The Gateway Village
For refreshments, The Oak Tree Inn in Balmaha is a popular spot, offering delicious food, a wide selection of drinks, and even accommodation. It's the perfect place to refuel after your hike or enjoy a meal with a view of the loch.
Balmaha also offers opportunities for other activities, such as boat trips on Loch Lomond, which can be combined with a visit to Conic Hill for a full day out. The village itself is picturesque and provides a tranquil setting to begin or end your adventure.
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