Explore Cowal

Waymarkers: blue markers
Distance: 3.1miles (5km)
Time: allow 2 hours 15 minutes
A longer hike which climbs higher Waymarkers: blue markers
Distance: 3.1miles (5km)

A longer hike which climbs higher up Kilbride Hill, through a stand of tall conifers and alongside the rushing Berry Burn. As it emerges from the depths of the trees, a wide panoramic view opens up, across to Loch Long, Helensburgh, Dunoon and Inverkip.up Kilbride Hill, through a stand of tall conifers and alongside the rushing Berry Burn. As it emerges from the depths of the trees, a wide panoramic view opens up, across to Loch Long, Helensburgh, Dunoon and Inverkip.

After Saturdays night walk, interest was shown from fellow walkers so a mid week walk was on the cards. Kilbride Loop was chosen as an intro to night walking, remaining on forestry roads and hardcore paths. Providing enough elevation to allow some great views. We were joined by members of the Dunoon Hill Runners, who of course ran the route plus some additional kms thrown in. Setting off from FCS Kilbride car park we crossed each other’s paths a few times on route. Great to see so many people on the hill, the darkness held no one back!!

In to the night

View after first section from Forestry road.

A gradual climb on the second path brings you to the top of the path where it contours the ditch before heading back down. From here the Runners were at the summit of Kilbride Hill and starting their decent.

Runners moving off the hill

View from top of loop

From here it was follow the Blue markers down hill until you join the top forestry road, turning right to find the first section and return the car park. We met the Runners again as they took the longer route back following the forestry road to car park.

The mandatory ‘standing view’ shot. Ha

Before heading back down to the first forestry road to return to the car park there was time for a wee play with the cameras.
It’s meant to say Explore Cowal, Ha.

Thanks to all who joined me/attended. A great turn out. Great to see something going on in Cowal !!!
Also thanks to Ian Orr for contributing some pics from the night.