Ben More

Ben More, at 1,174 metres, is the highest of the Crianlarich Hills and one of the most recognisable summits in the southern Highlands, rising as a steep pyramid above Glen Dochart and easily seen from the A82 and A85.

The standard route starts from the roadside near Benmore Farm on the A85, a short drive east of Crianlarich. A signed path zig-zags up the initial slopes before passing through a gate, beyond which the route climbs relentlessly straight up the hillside — steep, often boggy underfoot, and offering little respite until easier ground is reached higher up near a stone dyke. The path follows this dyke before a final pull to the large summit cairn and trig point.

Many walkers combine Ben More with its close neighbour Stob Binnein, descending around 300 metres to a bealach before climbing again to the second summit — together the two peaks are a classic and popular pairing, visible together from much of the central belt.

The out-and-back route to Ben More alone is around 8 kilometres return; adding Stob Binnein extends the day to around 12 kilometres with significant additional ascent. Most parties allow six to eight hours for the combined round.

The direct ascent route is unrelentingly steep with no real flat sections, and the upper corrie of Sloc Curraidh is a recognised avalanche hazard in winter conditions — this is not a hill to underestimate despite its straightforward appearance and easy road access.

Parking is informal at the roadside near Benmore Farm; Crianlarich itself is served by train and coach from Glasgow.