Clashmach Hill is an open ridge lying southwest of Huntly. The ascent offers a pleasant walk with extensive views.
Summary
Straightforward ascent on a grassy track and path, can be muddy in places.
Terrain
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1. Park in Market Muir car park on George V Avenue, on the left side of the A97 into town. Begin the walk by heading back along the A97 to the large roundabout on the Huntly by-pass. Turn right here on the A96, crossing very carefully to reach the pavement on the far side. Follow this briefly before turning left onto a minor road past the auction mart, signed for Tullochbeg. Follow this road uphill until it turns sharp left with a bungalow ahead. Go straight on here up the drive, passing to the right of the bungalow and onto a grassy path. This runs between bushes and then bears right past a wooden bench with views back to Huntly.
2. The grassy path continues with gorse and fences on either side. Soon it bends left to climb more directly, and the fields on the right gradually become rougher and wilder. It leads up to a gate; cross the stile on the right. The route is now more open. Continue uphill, keeping the fence on your right, to eventually reach another gate and stile. Cross this and follow the grassy track between the gorse bushes.
3. This leads to a third and final gate and stile. Beyond, the path leads up to the ridge line and there is a sudden view of Ben Rinnes ahead in the distance, the erosion scar of its path clearly visible. The path now reaches a track running along the hill. Turn left onto this, making a note of where you joined the track so you can find your way back.
4. The summit of the hill is reached after a short distance, marked by a cairn and a triangulation point. The extensive views take in Huntly, the nearby Tap o'Noth, and the tors of Bennachie. The return is made the same way.
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