Although I’ve walked this hill before , I thought I’d try it from a different approach. Setting off from the FCS car park at Inverchapel,following the red route to the view point then leaving the hardcore track for the open hillside.
I’m not going to lie……….the initial climb over the varied and steep terrain did have me taking a few picture opportunities ( breathers), my legs were paying the price of the constant climb. There is no path, so it’s pretty much do your own thing. I had an idea to follow fence lines but the steep rocky terrain put me off. I’d plotted a rough route,dodging the larger rocky outcrops,so that’s the route I took. Looking on a map and seeing what’s actually on the ground are two different things!! Zig-zagging up the hill I eventually got to the section where I could see the summit,the walk from here is quite straight forward. There are a number of old iron fence posts that guide you to the summit.
On the return, I decided to head out onto some of the outcrops to gain some great views over Loch Eck and the surrounding hills. I also decided to follow the fence line that took me back the the gate,mid hill. Thankfully I never took this route on the way up as the boulder strewn hill was not ideal walking terrain, especially with a dusting of snow. Some voids could take your leg !!
Despite the constant climb,it was a great way to do this hill. A great view was always had,more so with the hills topped with snow.
Below are all my pics (almost 100),I couldn’t bare to miss any out…………….well there is that dodgy ‘selfie’!!! Feel free to print it and it’ll keep the kids away from the fire !!
For interactive map and locations of pictures,click HERE
I’ve made that climb a few times, on pretty much the same line you followed. The views are glorious. There’s nothing exposed, but it is a climb.
David, it sure is a climb! Next time I’d return via the ascent route, easier going. Or take in the wee bothy above Pucks Glen.