LIFETIME of WALKS by DEREK HARWOOD

202 of 205 'AA' Walks completed. Started from Drumclog Moor Car Park opposite Mugdock Reservoir. Sylvia reading book in car. Walked along path parallel to road, behind recently erected high metal fence. Quick visit to reservoir sluice gates then a steady climb to Mugdock Castle car park track entrance. Watched rabbit in field opposite wood. Good alternative new path in wood parallel to road and track to Mugdock Castle Car Park. Only one pair of metal gates found at point '4', no second gate or gates. After Mugdock Castle turn right at first finger post and left at second finger post, point '5', to wooden gate on old avenue. Continue on old avenue passing history trail no.10 and shooting huts before gate and Kyber car park, to lane. No stile at point '6', the entrance to car park. Pass entrance to Craigallian House and onto old original gate at point '7'. Good path from '7' to '8', past dense coniferous woods. Some woods newly planted. Path becomes good track at point '8'. Note, private road to left. Many rhododendron bushes on track to point '9'. Fork at '9' obvious, no alternative. Pass fallen trees in woods after '9' then steady descent to West Highland Way at hairpin left point '10'. Excellent views to Carbeth Loch and Craigallian Loch Valley. Blue bells and goose in full bloom. Lots of walkers in small groups just started the West Highland Way, all in good spirits because of the abnormal pleasant sunshine. Memories of my first section of the Way in 1993. See Walk No. 231. No stiles or gates to worry about until point '14' where track finishes at gate. Take path to right. Good views alongside Craigallian Loch. Care required through Mugdock Wood if grassy track is used, other than the West Highland Way, due to the many side tracks and the trip hazards of tree routes. Young deer crossed track as I entered the wood. Keep river on right until the track is reached at point '18'. Take small track second from right. Great care required from this point due to the many tracks in all directions. Follow signs to Drumclog Moor car park. The paths are better as the car park is approached. If you are not sure of your way ask the dog walkers, the Scottish people are very friendly.
Location: www.streetmap.co.uk , - Start & Finish: Drumclog Moor Car Park 255450/675960, - via: Mugdock Castle 255015/677160, - via: Craigallian Loch 253450/678110. (Click on location and use Zoom).

Hazards: Excellent varied walk, which makes navigation difficult. Ensure the weather is good and take a good map.