Minch Moor

Hill: Minch Moor

Type: Sub2k

Height: 567m

You can see the artwork on the bottom of box it is all over

Hope don't meet any of these today

I had been looking forward to this short ramble particularly as it is just packed with history. The ramble follows the Southern Upland Way from Traquair. No hardship it is a good track all the way. The only downside is that the route is criss crossed by the 7 Stanes MTB tracks so you have to keep your wits about you. If you wanted to make a circuit you would have to use bike tracks, well posted with many having no access signs for walkers. They cant stop you so your choice.

It was a very cold crisp morning with stunning blue skies. Sadly the initial third had a very low sun, so bright that even with polarised glasses on I could only look down not ahead. That's what I get for starting early.

Walkers bike on right but still saw bike tracks in the mud

First stopping point. A modern art collection of slates with the names and stories of local horses. The work being a celebration of border ponies and horses.

Birds are singing all around, they think spring is in the air, makes a fine accompaniment. 

Another modern input is called the Point of Resolution where they have cut oblongs into the heather terrain. The object to improve feed for various wildlife but particularly the Black grouse. Also to illustrate that the ancient round houses found around here were not round after all.

Its not long before the summit nears and a good time to reflect on who has come along this track. At one time it was the main route traversing southern Scotland. Religious importance for travellers between Kelso Abbey and Lesmahagow's Abbies. Edward the 1st brought his army when failing to conquer although he did remove some precious antiquities. Montrose, his cavalry and officers fled through after defeat at Philiphaugh. The sound of war horses coming through must have been spectacular. This route has much, much more, look it up.

The Sacred Well

Next up is the cheese well (modern name), a sacred well with long standing for such a small flow of water. It was first formally named on a map in 1601 but local legend has it identified 400 years earlier. Of course I had to drink from it, wondering who else might have done so, let the imiganation flow.

Walkerburn

From up here excellent views into the Yarrow valley and the hills behind.

Eildon hills in background

Now onto the open moor with its trig and cairn. The sun has not warmed this place up, iced water pools and a chilling breeze. Also a MTB emergency point!! However, the views are stunning in all directions. Even the Eildons in the haze.

I was the only walker but seen quite a few bikers so caution first and back down the ascent route albeit met bikers ascending it. Selfish, they have more than enough tracks for themselves. 

MTB highway to be crossed, Dun Rig behind

The descent provides more scenic views particularly over the Dun Rig circuit. 

Impressive Lee Pen

As you head towards Innerleithen the pointed Lee Pen looks like a great viewpoint, why is that not a Sub2k?

An interesting ramble. Some days are just so good, despite being short I enjoyed that one.

Ascent: 411m

Distance: 8.4km

Time: 2.28

Wildlife: Song Thrush; Blue Tit; Woodpigeon; Jackdaw; Great tit