Marilyn · North-West Highlands
Ben Hiel
The name means 'peak' in Gaelic. At 535m near Loch Shin in Sutherland, this is the kind of hill that experienced walkers love — not famous, not crowded, but a proper summit with proper views.
Gaelic: “mountain, peak” · Pronunciation: ben
Quick facts
- Height
- 535m/ 1755ft
- Difficulty
- 2 / 5Moderate
- Grid ref
- NC 59583 50038
Download GPX route file
Standard route
Standard route
A steady ascent via rough paths through the emptiest landscape in mainland Britain to the 535m summit. The walking is straightforward with clear views opening up as you gain height. Allow 2-4 hours.
Terrain
Quartzite scree, peat hags and rough moorland. The northwest Highland landscape is geologically unique and physically demanding.
In winter
Northwest Highland winters are dominated by wind rather than deep snow. The maritime climate brings frequent freeze-thaw. Navigation in low cloud is the primary challenge.
This hill is in the Torridon SAIS forecast area. Check SAIS forecasts in winter (December–April).
Best time of year
Getting there
- Glasgow7h 37m
- Edinburgh7h 7m
OS maps: OS Landranger 10, OS Explorer 447N, OS Explorer 447S, OS Explorer 448N
Current conditions
Daylight Today
- Sunrise
- 05:21
- Sunset
- 21:08
- Civil dawn
- 04:32
- Civil dusk
- 21:58
NOAA Solar Calculator · 2 May 2026