THIS WEEK'S WALKS

 Sunday 9th February: Two walks

“B+” walk: Ballochling Loch and Craiglee Circular (from Loch Doon)

Walk distance: approx. 7 miles

Total ascent: approx. 1,100 feet

This walk offers stunning views when the weather is right. The route has a mixture of walking surfaces - forest track, grass trails, and some challenging tussocky sections on the pathless ascent from Ballochling Loch to Craiglee.

From the car park we follow Forest Drive and wind our way up to Ballochling Loch. We approach the Craiglee ridge on the west side of the cairn. We then head past Craiglee summit (523m) and follow the faint path to the Wee Hill of Craigmulloch (427m). The final stretch is the grass trail section of the Loch Doon Castle loop which takes us back to the car park.

The walk will be led at a relaxed pace. The “B+” grading is mainly for the section from Ballochling Loch to the Craiglee ridge. As the ground is soggy and uneven in places, boots, gaiters and poles are highly recommended. 

Meet at Ayr College car park at 8.45am for a 9.00am departure.

The walk will start at 10.00am from the Forest Drive car park at the southern end of Loch Doon (about half a mile beyond the Castle car park).

“C” walk: Mauchline Circuit, including River Ayr Way

Walk distance: 8 miles

We will leave Mauchline through the old part of the town going towards Tarbolton Road, then onto Redcraig Road, to walk a circuit round Mauchline. Using mainly quiet minor roads, we will cross the A742 to Goukthorn and continue to the Haugh. After our lunch stop we will follow the River Ayr Way to Howford Bridge and go up through woodland to return to the car park.

Meet at Ayr College car park at 8.45am for a 9.00am departure.

The walk will start from Loudoun Street car park (KA5 5BU), Mauchline, at 9.30am.