Ben Lomond, Rowardennan, Loch Lomond

We stayed in a bunkhouse at the base of the Ben, learning about its various uses and also a wicker outbuilding constructed and maintained by staff and volunteers.
The next morning we were given a walking talk, up the Ben, by Alisdair, the ranger for Ben Lomond. He explained the history of the Ben, from iron reserve extraction to the current peat bog restoration efforts. He also showed historical images of pathway damage and degradation to contrast with the modern day improvements we could see with our own eyes, carried out by National Trust for Scotland's upland pathway team and volunteers.
We reached the summit of the iconic Ben, in warm sunshine, and posed for photographs on route. We saw crows and lapwing, among other wildlife. We also interacted with passers by, member of the public and tourists, explaining a bit about who we were and our work. Later in the contract we are expected to carry out work of our won to conserve and enhance a section of the pathway, so it was a good insight into some of the challenges this iconic and well-used Ben faces.
The day left me with a sense of satisfaction, both at reaching the summit and the physical outdoor exercise it provided, but also satisfaction in learning more about the history and current challenges that the famous peak experiences.