Climbing routes for all abilities in Loch Lomond
Climbing is one of the most popular outdoor sports in the UK, and it’s no surprise when you consider all the different types of climbing you can ambark upon. There is a vast abundance of climbing locations throughout the UK and Loch Lomond up in Scotland is no exception! With a mixture of bouldering, sport, classic climbs and strenuous routes, there are plenty of climbing opportunities in Loch Lomond. This guide has been produced in partnership with the Mountaineering Council of Scotland who provided their valuable advice on the best climbs within Loch Lomond.
1. Ardvorlich – (Sport)
With a total of nine climbs on offer at Ardvorlich crag, and only 10 minutes from the roadside, you’ll find a good mix of balance and technical climbing up at Ardvorlich. This well-hidden crag offers a variety of climbs for experienced climbers. With names like Magic Carpet Ride and That Sinking Feeling, it’s not a kind one for beginners.
The routes can be downloaded from: http://www.ukclimbing.com/logbook/crag.php?id=2914
2. The Narnain Boulder – (Bouldering)
One of the more scenic climbs on our list, the Narnain boulders are almost moon-like in their appearance, and offer some stunning views when you reach them. Choose from 10 climbs at Narnain Boulders. For high boulders, try out The Crucifix and Two Hot Honies, while slightly easier bouldering can be found in The Quartz Wall and Left Wall routes.
The routes can be downloaded from: http://www.ukclimbing.com/logbook/crag.php?id=10415
3. The Cobbler (North Peak) – (Trad)
The Cobbler, also known by it’s original name Ben Arthur, is one of Scotland’s most distinctive mountains. Offering a great mix of classic routes and more severe climbs, the north peak of The Cobbler boasts some of the Southern Highlands’ most impressive rock features. The dramatic triple peaks of The Cobbler also provide some excellent climbing opportunities through most of the grade spectrum throughout all seasons. If you’re a more advanced climber why not try Club Crack.
The routes can be downloaded from: http://www.ukclimbing.com/logbook/crag.php?id=594
4. The Cobbler (South Peak) – (Trad)
Whether you’re a climbing novice or you’re used to difficult routes, there’s something for everyone on the south peak of The Cobbler. Offering two different facets, the open and sunny South Face offers bold climbing on good slabby rock, a lot less gloomy compared to the North face. Head to the south face for bold climbing, while the north face provides classic winter routes.
The routes can be downloaded from: http://www.ukclimbing.com/logbook/crag.php?id=594
5. St Bride’s Wall – (Bouldering)
A small roadside crag with easy access that is perfect for those after a short and sweet climb. It can also be visited as an extension to a visit to the nearby area or the more extensive Ben Ledi boulders. St. Bride’s Wall features a number of good, clean bouldering problems on this wall, along with a couple of trad routes, Diagonal Crack and Shelf Route. Parking is available in the layby next to St. Bride’s Chaple, and from there, simply walk across the field to access the wall.
The routes can be downloaded from: http://www.ukclimbing.com/logbook/crag.php?id=9053
6. Stank Glen Boulders – (Bouldering)
Just past the tree line of Stank Glen, bouldering opportunities are vast on the north side of Ben Ledi. With a boulder field strewn down the hillside, there’s something for everyone. Access to the boulders can be found by taking the single track road near the holiday chalets and following the forest track up the glen and turning left. Form
The routes can be downloaded from: http://www.ukclimbing.com/logbook/crag.php?id=3935
7. Glen Ogle – (Sport)
Whilst Glen Ogle may not hold the title of Scotland’s best area for sport climbing anymore, it still has an impressive selection of mainly short, powerful sport climbs on offer. Glen Ogle also has some hidden gems hidden amongst the crags that often get overlooked by climbers, so be sure to take advantage of the whole area as good sport climbing and bouldering spots can be found spread all over. Although fairly steep in nature, many of the routes seep after heavy rain. Glen Ogle is a one to attend with a keen eye to make wnsure all bolts are secure and safe, something to bare in mind.
The routes can be downloaded from: http://www.ukclimbing.com/logbook/crag.php?id=395
8. Stronachlachar – (Sport)
With small crags and boulders placed along the steep wooded slopes of Garradh, you’ll find both climbing and bouldering opportunities at Stronachlachar. Climbing routes tend to be shorter and sportier on good rock. Choose from 34 climbs in total, all offering spectacular scenic views over Loch Arklet and Loch Katrine. You can climb up at Stronachlachar all year round thanks to it’s south facing face, meaning it’s a real suntrap.
The routes can be downloaded from: http://www.ukclimbing.com/logbook/crag.php?id=8548
9. Creag Tharsuinn – (Trad)
High grade climbing routes are on offer at Creag Tharsuinn with steep rock on the north east ridge of Beinn Narnain, perfect for experienced climbers. Choose from routes such as Terminator, Deception and Route Sinister for nail-bitingly tense climbs.
The routes can be downloaded from: http://www.ukclimbing.com/logbook/crag.php?id=590
10. Arrochar Caves – (Trad/Caving)
Hard severe climbing is on offer at Arrochar Caves. Can you handle The Vice? A midge net is essential when you reach the top so be sure to get properly kitted out before you start.
The routes can be downloaded from: http://www.ukclimbing.com/logbook/crag.php?id=8811
The Mountaineering Council of Scotland is the organisation for Scottish hillwalkers, climbers and mountaineers, or simply anyone who loves Scotland’s mountains. Find out more or join them today at www.mcofs.org.uk or check out www.ClimbScotland.net for the latest news, ideas and advice aimed at getting young people climbing in Scotland.
