Glen Nevis
Glen Nevis Forest Notices
COVID-19 has changed lots of things we do. And as we re-open the majority of our facilities and welcome more of you back in Phase 3, we need your help to do it safely. Please check what’s open before you travel; enjoy your visit safely by following NHS and Scottish Government guidance; take your litter home with you; and follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
At this location:
- The car park is open and normal charges (if any) now apply.
Please bear with us and check back regularly for updates. You can also find more information by visiting our COVID-19 page and our FAQs.
Gateway to one of Scotland's iconic glens
This is the gateway to one of Scotland’s most beautiful glens, watched over by Britain’s highest peak. But you don’t have to climb high or go far to enjoy some stunning forest, mountain and loch views.
Explore the full length of the glen by car or bike, or leave your vehicle at our Braveheart car park and follow the trails to explore the extensive remains of an Iron Age hill fort or to enjoy panoramic views across Lochaber and along the Great Glen.
Forests around Fort William Guide Map (PDF 6.8MB)
Guide Map to the Great Glen (PDF 7MB)
Walking trails
Cow Hill circuit
A loop all the way round Cow Hill, the wee hill with big views. There's also an option to branch off the circuit to visit the top of the hill. Great views of lochs, Ben Nevis and the Mamores.
Mostly wide, firm path although some short sections can be narrow, loose or rough.
Allow 2¾ hours
The section of trail on the south of the hill is known as the ‘Peat Track’ – local crofters used it on their way back from cutting peat for fuel, and it has the best views of Ben Nevis. The trail is popular with mountain bikers as well as walkers: on blind corners, be aware there might be a biker just round the bend.
Dun Deardail trail
Walk up through the forest to the open summit of this important iron age hill fort. Great views, enjoyed by people here for thousands of years.
A long, moderately steep climb. The path to the fort is steep and rough, with uneven stone steps.
Allow 3½ hours
This longer trail has a real sense of adventure. It’ll take you through the forest and onto the open summit of Dun Deardail (pronounced "dun jerra-dil"), an Iron Age hill fort. People lived here in a compound that would have had several round huts, encircled by a rampart. See if you can spot the grassy remains of the outer wall. The views of the glen and Ben Nevis from here are spectacular on a clear day.
Activities
Ben Nevis
Glen Nevis is the starting point for the classic walk up Ben Nevis. It's a popular challenge, but don't be tempted to undertake this walk on a whim. It's a long, arduous day of hillwalking for which you'll need to pack food and drink, warm and waterproof clothing, and sturdy hillwalking boots. The summit can be freezing cold with near zero visibility even at the height of summer, so take a map and compass too. Find out more about the route at WalkHighlands.
Facilities & access
There are plenty of public toilets and places to eat, drink and stay in Fort William and wider Glen Nevis.
Getting here
From Fort William head along the Glen Nevis road for about ¾ mile. The Braveheart car park is on the right-hand side of the road.
Using SatNav?
PH33 6PF is a postcode on Belford Road. Continue up the Glen past this spot to find the car park.
Get in touch
Have a question or suggestion for improvement?