Blackcraig Circuit in reverse

Hill: Blackcraig & Blacklorg

Type: Graham/Donald

Tramping the same old hills but hopefully not for much longer. Back to Glen Afton. For a change I decided to do this in reverse of the normal circuit. Just blogged the start as it was different then just snaps.

From parking the meandering tree line our route

Parked at the usual spot we walked back to the farm and followed the track beside the Craig burn. Most previous outings I have descended off the nose of Craigbraneoch but I thought walking further up the track would  make for an easier climb, wrong!

The track was built for forestry purposes but stopped early, maybe they made too much money from the windfarms across the way to be concerned about tree planting. However, they might not have planted too many trees but the did build deer fences and doublers at that in some sections.

Deer fence

So, my plan to go further up the track was curtailed as I wanted walking fitness but I did not want to climb deer fences.

After deciding no climbing fences it was now onto the rough stuff, very rough stuff. Rather than contouring it was easier to go uphill at an angle heading for the plateau just short of the top. 

Steep ascent on rough ground

Slow going as the underfoot was Galloway terrain at its worst. Lots of rocks hidden and not. Lots of holes likewise. Plus it was a steep gradient ranging in the 30-50% and at times even steeper, face in all four hands and feet required. I wanted to work on my hill fitness and I was getting it. Breathing too hard, wow.

Cannock Hill, Alwhat behind

Blacklorg

Blacklorg cairn looking east

Blackcraig from Blacklorg

Blackcraig from boggy plateau

Finally on top and it was a case of following the normal circuit in reverse. Enjoyable as different perspective of the prolonged views mainly south. Although extremely windy and cold the sky stayed clear for the most part so views were excellent.

Blackcraig trig looking north

More turbines to spoil the descent

Quintin Knowe, disputed boundary marker between Ayrshire & Dumfries

New track

Looking over to Craigbraneoch

Another step forward in the fitness battle and a good walk on a bracing day.

Ascent: 762m

Distance: 13.3km

Time: 5.18

Wildlife: Chaffinch; Meadow Pipit; Skylark