Ben Ledi

Ben Ledi is a Scottish Highland launch about 5 km NW of Callander in the southern Highlands. Access is on foot only — a 45-minute walk up from the parking. XC is possible from here but committing because of the lack of roads and forested areas over the back. Not regulated by any of the flying clubs, so awareness and self-sufficiency matter. No official landing area.

Launch & conditions

From the end of the bridge, take the wide path leading up through the trees. Take off anywhere above the old treeline — a common spot is the shoulder before the path turns sharply onto the ridge leading up to the summit (NN 572 088). About 45 min walking from the parking.

Getting there & local rules

Drive about 5 km NW of Callander. About 1 km before Loch Lubnaig, turn left (west) off the A84 at the brown sign for Strathyre holiday lodges. Cross the narrow metal bridge and turn left to park (NN 586 090). No official LZ. Usual landing: on the west side of the A84 near the group of 3 caravans — several narrow but ample fields between the river and the minor road to the holiday cottages. You can also land on the minor road if the fields are boggy — traffic is usually very light. Alternative: a large field on the east side of the river not far from the car park, though it sits immediately south of a large hillock and should probably be avoided.

Local rules & hazards

Not regulated by any of the flying clubs. XC is possible but committing — lack of roads and forested areas over the back.

Check conditions before you fly

A forecast for the valley is not a forecast for the launch. Before heading to Ben Ledi, read the wind and thermals for the site itself, confirm the day's rules with the local club, and remember the standing rule — when in doubt, don't launch. In the free OutDare app you can open Ben Ledi with a 7-day forecast built from high-resolution weather models, see who else has been flying, and get there with offline maps.