Restrictions on a section of the West Highland Way near Conic Hill will mean a diversion for walkers with dogs during the lambing season. Lambing will be take place between 15th April and 15th May 2012 inclusive and will mean that walkers cannot take their dogs into the field with ewes in lamb, where the West Highland Way comes out of Garadhban Forest. The diversion for walkers with dogs is via Drymen, along the B837 Balmaha Road through Milton of Buchanan to Balmaha from where walkers with dogs can ascend Conic Hill with their dog if want to. Signs will be in place nearer the time.
Details of the route including maps showing the alternative dog route can be found on Walkhighlands. The Scottish Government recently announced a £250k funding package for the maintenance of the West Highland Way.
The seasonal announcement from the West Highland Way comes as Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) is undertaking a publicity programme to inform dog walkers of their rights and responsibilities in the Scottish Countryside. More information about dogs and the Scottish Access Code can be found on the SNH website.