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Conic Hill Hike

By François · updated in June 202506/2025My rating

Key facts about the hike

Difficulty
Easy Hikes are rated from very easy to very hard: my difficulty scale
Duration
2h30 Estimated time, short breaks included (photos, water, snacks), picnic not included: how it is calculated
Distance
4.4km
out and back
Elevation gain
360m
Type of route
Out and back
Maximum altitude
358 m
Vertiginous Five levels, depending on how exposed the route is: the levels in detail
Slightly
Marked
No
Popularity
High
Region
Lomond
Start point
56.08584, -4.53868
Activity
Hiking

Hike overview

The Conic Hill hike is one of the most iconic walks in Loch Lomond, offering spectacular views of the loch and its islands from the summit. Located on the Highland Boundary Fault, this viewpoint allows you to see the natural border between the Lowlands to the south and the Highlands to the north.

Starting from the charming village of Balmaha on the loch's shore, this short climb attracts nearly 250,000 hikers each year, drawn by the exceptional panorama.

Map and elevation profile of the hike

Conic Hill Hike

Difficulties of the hike

The well-maintained trail presents no major difficulties. It begins with a forest crossing, then continues with a steeper section via recently renovated wooden and stone stairs. Only the last few meters before the summit are more rugged and slightly dizzying. However, they are not necessary to admire the view, which is just as beautiful beforehand.

What you'll love

  • The exceptional panorama of Loch Lomond, its many islands, Ben Lomond (the southernmost Scottish Munro), and the Arrochar Alps.
  • The view of the Highland Boundary Fault, marked by the alignment of the islands in the loch and the ridge of Conic Hill, which marks the spectacular transition between the landscapes of the Lowlands and the Highlands.

Practical information

Parking

There is a large paid parking lot at the Balmaha Visitor Center (indicative price in 2025: £3.40 for four hours).

Loch Lomond
Loch Lomond
Conic hill ascent
Conic hill ascent
Loch Lomond
Loch Lomond
Loch Lomond
Loch Lomond
Loch Lomond
Loch Lomond
Loch Lomond from the summit
Loch Lomond from the summit
Start and end of the hike in the forest
Start and end of the hike in the forest
Loch Lomond
Loch Lomond
Loch Lomond
Loch Lomond

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Printed from www.horizonrando.fr/en/scotland/conic-hill/