Ben A'an facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ben A'an |
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The hill of Ben A'an in the Scottish Highlands
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 461 m (1,512 ft) |
| Naming | |
| English translation | Small Pointed Peak |
| Language of name | Scottish Gaelic |
| Geography | |
 Ben A'an
Location in Scotland
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| Parent range | Trossachs |
| OS grid | NN 502 082 |
| Topo map | OS Landranger 57 |
Ben A'an is a popular hill located in the Trossachs area of Scotland. It's often called a "small mountain" because of its pointy shape. Even though it's not super tall, it offers fantastic views. This makes it a great spot for a fun hike.
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Where is Ben A'an?
Ben A'an is found in the Trossachs region of the Scottish Highlands. This area is north of Glasgow. The hill stands tall above two beautiful lochs: Loch Katrine and Loch Achray.
What does the summit look like?
The top of Ben A'an doesn't have many trees. Instead, you'll see lots of rocks and rocky cliffs. The very highest point is 461 meters (1512 feet) high. It has a rounded shape, which is different from its lower, pointy west side.
How to Hike Ben A'an
The most common way to climb Ben A'an starts from a car park. This car park is near the shore of Loch Achray. Look for signs that say "Ben An" (which is a slightly different spelling).
Starting the climb
From the car park, the path goes straight uphill. It heads towards the north-northeast. Soon, you'll follow a small stream called the Allt Inneir. This part of the path leads you north-northwest to a lower, flat area called a saddle. This saddle is about 246 meters high.
Reaching the top
After crossing the saddle, the path turns northwest. You'll then follow another stream, the Allt na Cailliche. This part of the climb is quite steep. You'll walk below the rocky cliffs of Ben A'an. Near where the stream starts, the path turns west. It goes behind the pointy west side of the hill. From there, it's a short climb to the top of the west peak. This is where most hikers aim to go. There isn't a clear path to the very highest point of the hill.
Amazing Views from the Top
Even though Ben A'an isn't a huge mountain, the views from its summit are incredible! You can see all around you. You'll spot many surrounding lochs (lakes), glens (valleys), and other mountains.
What can you see?
From the top, you can clearly see Loch Katrine and Loch Achray. You might also spot Ben Venue, another nearby mountain. On a clear day, you can even see as far as the Arrochar Alps. These mountains are located on the western shore of Loch Lomond. It's a perfect place for taking photos!
What Does "Ben A'an" Mean?
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The name "Ben A'an" was actually a mistake! A famous writer named Sir Walter Scott changed the original name. He made it sound more English.
The real meaning
We aren't completely sure what the hill's original name was. Some people think it might have been Am Binnean. This means "the pinnacle" or "the peak." Other ideas suggest it means "the small pointed peak." Either way, the name describes its distinctive shape perfectly!
Images for kids
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The hill of Ben A'an in the Scottish Highlands
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Hikers near Ben A'an's summit
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The hill in a James Valentine picture
