This short, waymarked forestry walk climbs from a car park overlooking the Crinan Canal to reach a superb panoramic viewpoint above the trees.
Forest paths and tracks; steps on the steep climb up to the summit
None to start.
Dunardry forestry car park.
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The walk begins from the Dunardry car park, maintained by the Forestry Commission and just off the B841 to the west of Cairnbaan. The car park is above the level of the Crinan Canal and its picnic tables offer a stunning view over the Dunardry Locks and basins. The walk, which is waymarked in yellow, starts by continuing along the track and passing through a gate into the forest plantations.
A path soon comes in from the left down some steps; this is used on the return. Continue ahead on the track, with occasional views over the Moine Mhòr (Great Moss) glimpsed between the trees; on a clear day it is possible to pick out Ben Cruachan. At a fork, keep left on the main track, which now climbs uphill to the left. Ignore a minor track off to the left and continue ahead, now with views over Loch Crinan towards the islands of Scarba and Mull. Continue through a gate and past a quarry to reach another track junction. Turn left here and follow the track past some ruined crofts.
As the track bends to the right, a signpost indicates the start of the short but steep diversion to the summit of Cruach Mòr Dunardry. Head up this path, ascending some steps to reach the small and shapely summit which projects up above the trees. The top is marked by a triangulation pillar, and a wooden bench provides the opportunity to enjoy the superb all-round views. Scarba and Mull and the Moine Mhòr are all better seen from here, together with sections of the canal, the forests of Knapdale and even the Paps of Jura.
Return back down the path to the forest track and turn left to continue the walk. The track soon becomes tarmac; bear left at the junction. A short distance further and turn left onto a path once more. This descends the left side of the Dunardry Burn gorge, passing above a strange wooden sculpture. Ignore the path leading off to the right to a footbridge and instead continue down the left side, with views of several waterfalls and bridges down below.
At the next fork, again keep left on a path along a grassy terrace. There is soon a stone sculpture and a stunning view east along the Crinan Canal. Continue on the path which eventually descends to reach the track used on the outward journey. Turn right to return to the car park.
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