Stob Binnein

Hiking trails to Stob Binnein are usually climbed in conjunction with its slightly bigger twin, Ben More. While that mountain sits in the spotlight, the more shapely Stob Binnein is actually only 30 feet (10 m) lower, at 3,822 feet (1,165 m), and is a glorious hike in its own right. 

Whilst hikers usually climb Stob Binnein from the north, you can also start from Inverlochlarig in the south. Whichever direction you hike from, standing on Stob Binnein’s lofty summit in clear weather is a breathtaking affair. You might need a sit down to admire it though, given the challenging, breathless ascent. 

Hiking up the Crianlarich twins

These twin peaks make for a fantastic day out by themselves but if you want to push yourself to the max, you can add in numerous surrounding Munros too. As it is, hiking Ben More and Stob Binnein sets you up for an exhilarating day alone, as to get from one to the other requires significant descent and reascent. 

Benmore farm, to the north, is a typical starting point and can be found just east of Crianlarich, a good place to make your base. The trails begin steep and stay steep so layer accordingly to allow for the inevitable and quick build up of body heat. As you climb though, the glen drops away beneath you and the views soon become blissful. 

Ben More is typically ascended first, via Cuidhe Chrom, but you can hike direct to Stob Binnein if you prefer. Winter and spring conditions can get perilous here and when the weather turns wintry, only experienced mountaineers with the right equipment should attempt the mountain. 

From the summit, look south across the extraordinary Trossachs and Arrochar Alps. To the north, Ben More can be admired and behind, peaks puncture the sky at regular intervals.