Conic Hill Walk From Balmaha: Our Experience and Views

We went up Conic Hill when we were visiting our friends in Glasgow. It was one of the outings they took us on, and I’m very glad they did. The walk begins in Balmaha, on the eastern shore of Loch Lomond.

Our Conic Hill Walk From Balmaha

Conic Hill is 361 metres high. The climb certainly gets the heart pumping. We had a two-year-old with us, who did an amazing job through the initial woodland part but had to be carried up the steeper bits further on.

What Was The Walk Like?

It’s a rewarding walk, as you do get a bit hot and sweaty going up and the views are amazing. You need a reasonable level of walking fitness, and I wouldn’t call it an accessible climb for everyone. There are steep sections, steps and exposed ground higher up.

Our two-year-old walker needed carrying for part of the climb. Factor that in if you’re taking small children; it’s a long way to carry someone if you’re already finding the slope hard work yourself.

Views Across Loch Lomond

The views as you ascend are spectacular and you can see right across Loch Lomond. We kept stopping to look. It’s a lovely place to appreciate just how much water and countryside there is around you.

We had a mixed bag of weather. It was quite clear going up Conic Hill, but as we reached the summit it had started to cloud over. We could only really take in the views from one side. What we did see was spectacular.

Check the forecast before setting out and take suitable walking footwear, warm layers and waterproofs. Our cloudier finish was a reminder of how conditions can change during a walk. Turn back if conditions become unsuitable for your group.

Starting From Balmaha

We started from Balmaha, where there is a car park and visitor facilities. The Oak Tree Inn is opposite the car park and is somewhere to look at for lunch after your walk. Check its opening times before relying on a meal there.

For the route and any restrictions, see the National Park’s Conic Hill information. We stopped to look at the views quite a lot, so I wouldn’t plan a walk against a tight deadline. Leave plenty of daylight for getting back down. There’s parking in Balmaha; check the charges and signs on arrival.

More Ideas For Your Scotland Trip

We also visited Glengoyne Distillery while staying with our friends, and went out to Lebowskis in Glasgow.

Conic Hill was a lovely walk with friends. For a couples’ trip, Stylish London Living has more ideas for romantic dates in Scotland.