Highlight • Summit
The Cobbler (Ben Arthur)
Hiking
5.0
(162)
Running
5.0
(1)
This is one of the finest Corbetts, the Scottish mountains that reach a height between 2,500 and 3,000 feet (762 to 914 m). The freakish triple summit shape is unmistakable. Said by some to resemble a cobbler bending over his last, the moniker seems to have stuck. Regardless of name, the mountain played an important part in the early development of Scottish rock climbing due to its tremendous rock towers and its proximity to the population centres of the Central Belt.
A remarkable mountain with a summit that requires nerves of steel to reach
Its popularity has given rise to a network of good paths and it is easy to link walking routes to the Cobbler with the other high summits of the marvellous Arrochar Alps. There are wild camping restrictions in the area, check the national park website for more information.
Despite its potentially intimidating appearance, there’s nothing technical about the hike and children should be fine. Until, that is, you get to the summit and are met with a unique obstacle.
The actual summit is the flat top of a small rock tower. To gain this prize, you first have to pass through a gap in the tower (known as ‘threading the needle’) to a upward sloping platform with a horrifying drop on the right-hand side. Make your way up the rocky platform as if it were a staircase and you’ll soon find yourself on the top. It’s not actually very technical, but it can be hugely unnerving.
Whether you scramble to the true summit or not, the view is wonderful, with Long Long and Arrochar (your best base for adventures here) directly below and Ben Lomond appearing as a distinctive cone to the east. Neighbouring Beinn Narnain’s tabled summit looks splendid, as do the rest of the bristling Arrochar Alps.
Winter conditions will create potentially dangerous difficulties for those without relevant skills and experience. If in doubt, choose a lower objective.
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
October 19, 2021
Hiking
February 12, 2019
Hiking
September 8, 2020
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near The Cobbler (Ben Arthur)
4.3
(58)
297
hikers
10.2km
04:23
820m
820m
Embark on a rewarding hike up The Cobbler, also known as Ben Arthur, a distinctive mountain in the Arrochar Alps. This moderate circuit from Succoth covers 6.3 miles (10.2 km) with a significant elevation gain of 2705 feet (824 metres), typically taking around 4 hours and 23 minutes to complete. You will start on a well-maintained path through forestry, which soon transitions to rough mountain tracks with increasingly steep and rocky sections as you ascend, offering panoramic views of Loch Long and the village of Arrochar, with the Narnain Boulders serving as a familiar landmark.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as parking is readily available at Succoth, making it an accessible day trip from cities like Glasgow. While the trail is generally considered an easy hillwalk in favorable conditions, its difficulty can change significantly with the seasons. If you plan to hike in winter, be prepared for a challenging environment that may require proper gear like crampons and ice axes.
The Cobbler is renowned for its unique, jagged profile, often said to resemble a cobbler bending over his last, making it one of the most recognizable peaks in the Southern Highlands. A highlight for many is the scramble to the true highest point, involving a feature known as "threading the needle." This is not technically difficult but requires confidence and should be avoided in poor weather, adding to the mountain's appeal despite its Corbett status.
4.8
(124)
1,184
hikers
17.1km
06:21
950m
950m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.7
(218)
2,006
hikers
19.1km
07:28
1,210m
1,210m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 930 m
Good to know
Family Friendly
yes
Wheelchair access
no
Dog Friendly
yes
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Thursday 7 May
14°C
5°C
26 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h
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