North Face

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Walk in the shadow of the mountain

Watched over by the towering cliffs of ‘the Ben’, there’s a waymarked trail here that will give you a taste of the open country. It’s also a popular starting point for hill walks to Carn Mor Dearg and Ben Nevis. Please note these routes are only suitable for very fit and experienced walkers – the route from Glen Nevis is easier.

Download our guide map of the Great Glen (PDF 5.8MB) or our map of the forests around Fort William (PDF 6.9MB) to explore the area further.

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Recharge your batteries

You’ll find public toilets and places to eat in Fort William.

Walking trails

North Face Trail

A steep climb is rewarded with magnificent views into the towering North face of Ben Nevis, over Fort William and out west towards the road to the Isles.

A good smooth surface, with long steep slopes throughout. The upper path is narrow and can be slippery when damp.

2 ¼ miles /
3.5 km
Allow
1½ hours

More information...

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Following the Allt a Mhuillin (the mill stream), this steep path has fine views of Ben Nevis and Loch Eil. Britain’s highest mountain is particularly impressive from this trail, as the menacing 2000 ft (610 m) cliffs of the North Face tower above you. You may well see climbers tackling the challenging routes across the rock face.

Beyond the stile the path enters open hillside: you’ll need the right clothing and equipment for this.

Cycling trails

Mountain biking trails

The River Lundy Trail from Leanachan passes through North Face. It’s a good route for walking or gentle cycling.

If you’re heading for the hills, check the route guides to Ben Nevis and Carn Mor Dearg at MunroMagic and WalkHighlands. These are challenging routes across open mountain, with no waymarkers: check our advice on hillwalking before you set off.

Contact: Lochaber Forest District

Address: Torlundy, Fort William

Postcode: PH33 6SW

Telephone: 0300 067 6870

Email: lochaber@forestry.gsi.gov.uk

How to get here

From Fort William take the A82 north for 2 ½ miles (4km). Turn right at the signpost for Torlundy and look for the Forestry Commission signs leading up a forest road to the parking in the Forest. The car park is at grid reference NN 145 763.

Using SatNav?

PH33 6SW is a postcode opposite the turning for Torlundy.

Public transport

Buses from Fort William pass the turning for Torlundy. You’ll find details at Traveline Scotland.

Nearby places

You can also explore the forest below Ben Nevis from Leanachan, or find more wonderful trails at Glen Nevis. Explore further afield with our guide to more fabulous forests along the Great Glen between Ballachulish and Inverness.