Conic Hill at a glance
Conic Hill rises to 361 m (1,184 ft) above Balmaha, on the east side of Loch Lomond. The hill sits on the Highland Boundary Fault. It is a much shorter day than Ben Lomond, but it is still a hill walk with steps, weather and a rocky finish.
Walking guides give the route from Balmaha as about 4 km (2.5 miles) there and back, 2 to 3 hours and 350 m (1,150 ft) of climbing. The path up is good and has steps. The last detour to the summit includes a short rocky section.
The Conic Hill walk, step by step
The figures are those of a walking guide for the route from Balmaha. Add time for rests and the weather.
Start in Balmaha
The walk starts at the village, where the visitor centre and the car parks are. If you drive, sort out your parking first, because Balmaha has two different car parks.
The climb
The path is well made and has steps. Expect a steady uphill walk of about 350 m (1,150 ft) in total. Take your time on the way up, and keep some energy for the descent.
The summit detour
The last stretch to the highest point includes a short rocky section. Take care here, especially when the rock is wet.
The way back
Return by the same route to Balmaha. Allow the full 2 to 3 hours for the round trip, and more if you stop at the top.
Loch Lomond tours and boat trips
Guided trips and cruises around the loch, from day tours to boat rides, with live prices and availability.
The view from Conic Hill
The path gives you a wide view of Loch Lomond and its islands. On a clear day the loch and its islands lie below you. In cloud, the view can disappear completely, so choose your day with the forecast in mind.
The ferry to Inchcailloch, an island with woodland paths, also leaves from Balmaha. You can pair the two on one day, as both start from the same village.
Getting to Balmaha and parking
By bus from Balloch or by car through Drymen. Parking is charged, and two different car parks are in use.
By bus
Bus 309 runs from Balloch to Balmaha in about 30 minutes. Check the current operator and timetable before you go. Our Balloch page covers the train from Glasgow.
By car
Drive to Balmaha through Drymen and the B837. The road beyond Balmaha leads on towards Rowardennan and ends at the car park there.
| Stay | Council car park, Balmaha, 2026 |
|---|---|
| Up to 2 hours | £3 |
| Up to 4 hours | £4 |
| All day | £5 to £6 |
Charges apply from 08:45 to 17:00, and in Balmaha that includes Sundays. The all-day charge is £5 to £6 in 2026, so budget for the higher figure and check the machine. A separate private car park with number plate recognition (ANPR) also serves Balmaha. Do not assume the council rates apply there.
Balmaha Visitor Centre
The centre is useful for advice before the walk. Toilets cost £0.50.
| Months | Opening hours |
|---|---|
| April to September | Daily 09:30–17:00 |
| October | Daily 09:30–16:00 |
| November to March | Saturday and Sunday only, 09:30–16:00 |
Dogs, lambing season and safety
The operator of the West Highland Way closes the fenced fields at the access to the hill to dogs during lambing, usually for six weeks from mid-April to the end of May. A signed diversion is in place. This is not a ban on dogs on the whole mountain. Follow the signs at the access for the exact dates.
Keep dogs out of fields with lambs, calves or other young stock, and keep them on a short lead or under close control near livestock. The idea that dogs are fine anywhere as long as they are on a lead is wrong for lambing fields.
- Check the forecast. Conditions on the top can differ a lot from the village.
- Wear shoes with grip and take water and a waterproof.
- In an emergency call 999 and give your exact location.
- Midges are usually active from May to October, worst in the morning and evening in still air. Check for ticks after walking through grass or woodland.
Plan the rest of your trip
More walks and practical guides for the loch.
Conic Hill: frequently asked questions
How long does the Conic Hill walk take?
Walking guides give 2 to 3 hours for the round trip of about 4 km (2.5 miles) from Balmaha, with about 350 m (1,150 ft) of climbing. Allow extra time for stops and the rocky detour to the top.
How high is Conic Hill?
Conic Hill is 361 m (1,184 ft) high. It sits on the Highland Boundary Fault above Balmaha.
How do I get to Conic Hill without a car?
Take the train from Glasgow Queen Street to Balloch, then bus 309 to Balmaha, which takes about 30 minutes. Check the current times for your day.
How much does parking in Balmaha cost?
The council car park charges £3 for up to 2 hours and £4 for up to 4 hours in 2026. The all-day charge is £5 to £6, so plan for the higher amount. Charges run from 08:45 to 17:00, including Sundays. A separate private ANPR car park has its own rates.
Can I take my dog up Conic Hill?
The fenced fields at the access are closed to dogs during lambing, usually for six weeks from mid-April to the end of May, and a signed diversion applies. Elsewhere, follow the signs, keep dogs out of fields with young stock and keep them under close control near livestock.
Is the walk difficult?
The path is good and has steps, but it is still a hill climb. The final detour to the summit has a short rocky section, so wear proper footwear and avoid it in wet or windy conditions.