Munro Profile 47: Beinn Ghlas

Region: Loch Rannoch to Loch Tay
Height: 1,103m (3,619 ft)

Beinn Ghlas is the quiet companion to Ben Lawers, often climbed en route to its loftier neighbour. But it’s a Munro in its own right, with a graceful ascent and wide views across Loch Tay. Its proximity to the Ben Lawers Nature Reserve makes it one of the most accessible Munros for campervan travellers, with well-maintained paths and nearby facilities.

Trailhead and Parking

Primary Access Point: Ben Lawers Nature Reserve Car Park
Location: Off the minor road from Killin to Glen Lyon
Grid Reference: NN608378 (trailhead)
Summit Grid Reference: NN625404

Capacity: Moderate; suitable for daytime campervan access
Facilities: Toilets (seasonal), information boards
Charges: Free
Overnight: Not permitted

Alternative Options

  • Killin: Campsite with full facilities, 15-minute drive from the trailhead
  • Wild parking: Possible in designated laybys along Glen Lochay road (check signage)
  • Bridge of Balgie: Alternative access for extended circuits

Route Overview

Standard Ascent: Direct Path via Beinn Ghlas to Ben Lawers
Distance: Approximately 7 km round trip (Beinn Ghlas only)
Elevation Gain: Around 700 metres
Terrain: Well-defined paths, grassy slopes, occasional rocky sections
Time Estimate: 3 to 5 hours

Navigation Notes

  • The path is clear and well-marked, and a map and compass are still recommended
  • Often climbed with Ben Lawers as a two-Munro circuit
  • Weather exposure is moderate; the summit can be breezy and cloud-covered

Campervan Suitability

Day Parking

  • Ben Lawers Nature Reserve Car Park allows daytime campervan access
  • Killin offers overflow options and amenities

Overnight Options

  • Killin Campsite: Toilets, showers, electric hook-ups
  • Wild parking may be possible in designated laybys (check signage)
  • No overnighting permitted at Ben Lawers trailhead

Fuel and Supplies

  • Killin: Fuel station, shop, café
  • Nearest large supermarket: Aberfeldy

Legacy Log

  • Name origin: “Beinn Ghlas” translates to “grey-green hill”
  • Summit features: Cairn with views across Loch Tay and the Lawers range
  • Known for: Accessibility, pairing potential, and gentle ascent
  • Popular with: Beginners, families, and those seeking a short but satisfying climb

Closing Notes

This is Munro Profile 47 in your campervan-access series. If you’ve climbed Beinn Ghlas, paired it with Ben Lawers, or found a reliable overnight spot nearby, feel free to share your comments. Your insights help shape the archive and support fellow travellers.

Sources Used
These sites provide far more detailed and comprehensive overviews of the walks and Munros than I could hope to cover here:

Explore more with us: