Ben Vrackie
Mountain Prominent Perthshire mountain overlooking Pitlochry
A popular hill near Pitlochry offering a well-trodden ascent, circular paths and summit panoramas; day-trippers appreciate the straightforward walk and views over Perthshire glens.
Ben Vrackie is a hill in Perthshire, Scotland, rising to 841 metres and overlooking the town of Pitlochry. It is a prominent local landmark and a frequent day-walk destination.
A well-defined path climbs from near the town up through heath and rocky ground to the summit ridge, which offers views across the River Tay valley and the surrounding Perthshire hills. The walk is popular year-round with locals and visitors for its convenience and vistas.
The hill is a natural feature of the southern Highlands and has long been used for recreation and grazing rather than settlement. Its accessibility from Pitlochry makes it one of the common day hikes in the region.
Ben Vrackie rises directly above Pitlochry in central Scotland, forming a conspicuous backdrop to the town and sitting within the rolling, forested landscape of southern Perthshire.
- Summit height: The summit is 841 metres above sea level and is a well-used day-hike from the nearby town, with clear paths on the usual ascent.
How to Get to Ben Vrackie #
Ben Vrackie is a short drive or bus ride from Pitlochry; the main car park and trailhead are a few minutes from the town center. Regular trains and buses serve Pitlochry from Perth and Edinburgh.
Tips for Visiting Ben Vrackie #
- The summit cairn can be windy; wear a layer against sudden gusts and stand on the sheltered lee if photographing.
- The town of Pitlochry makes a good base with frequent bus and rail services to the area.
- Consider the Ben Vrackie circuit that includes Craigower for varied terrain and good views.
Best Time to Visit Ben Vrackie #
Best during spring and summer for drier paths and more predictable weather; check conditions off-season.
Weather & Climate near Ben Vrackie #
Ben Vrackie's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with cool summers (peaking in July) and cold winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -2°C to 17°C. Abundant rainfall (1178 mm/year), wettest in January.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 4°C and lows of -2°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (151 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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February
February is cold with highs of 4°C and lows of -2°C. Regular rainfall (94 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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March
March is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of 0°C. Significant rainfall (106 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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April
April is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of 1°C. Moderate rainfall (63 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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May
May is cold with highs of 13°C and lows of 4°C. Moderate rainfall (74 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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June
June is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 7°C. Moderate rainfall (69 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is cool with highs of 17°C and lows of 9°C. Moderate rainfall (72 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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August
August is cool with highs of 17°C and lows of 8°C. Moderate rainfall (79 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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September
September is cool with highs of 14°C and lows of 6°C. Significant rainfall (102 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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October
October is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 4°C. Significant rainfall (127 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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November
November is cold with highs of 7°C and lows of 1°C. Significant rainfall (119 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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December
December is cold with highs of 5°C and lows of -1°C. Significant rainfall (122 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
