Dumgoyne and Earl's Seat, near Killearn

Summary

The distinctive wee steep peak of Dumgoyne is a popular local landmark. This route combines it with a moorland ramble to Earl's Seat with extensive views north and the possibility of a dram on return.

Grade (key)

Bog Factor (key)

Rating

Terrain

Track, then very steep path, eroded in places, moorland path to Earl's Seat can be boggy.

Public Transport

Regular bus (10) from Glasgow will stop at distillery on request.

Start

Glengoyne Distillery on A875. Open in Google Maps.

Hillwalking in Winter

Please note that hillwalking when there is snow lying requires an ice-axe, crampons and the knowledge, experience and skill to use them correctly. All route descriptions and difficulties given here are for summer conditions. See our Winter Skills page for basic information on the essential skills, techniques and knowledge needed for winter hillwalking.

Walk Statistics

Distance: 10.5km / 6.5 miles
Time (summer conditions): 3 - 4 hours
Ascent: 709m (Profile)
Start Grid Ref: NS526827

Summits Climbed

Sub 2000: Earl's Seat

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Accommodation

Walk Description

User reports (42)

Stage 1

There is limited parking at the west side of the road just north of Glengoyne Distillery (note the distillery car park is for visitors only - there is more parking at a small layby on the right heading north on the A875 just after the junction with the A81 at approx. NY525 833). From the parking area head south along the road until after the distillery, then head left through the field towards the stile over the fence at the back. Continue uphill on the grassy track; when it meets a larger track, go straight across.

Stage 2

Follow the main path which heads directly up the steep slope and is a bit eroded in places. At a fork bear right on a better path which curves round for a slightly gentler approach, soon curving left (ignore a sheep path ahead) to climb to the summit. The hill is a volcanic plug and where the rock is exposed near the top evidence of its former life as molten lava can be seen in the small air holes found in the rock in places. The summit is marked with an upright stone and has fabulous views in all directions on a clear day.

Stage 3

From the summit head almost due north to pick up a clear path descending, take care to pick a safe route as the crags on the east side are very steep. Below, the path heading towards Earl's Seat is clearly visible, except in winter conditions. Follow the path across the dip and when a crossroads of paths is reached turn right to head ENE towards Garloch Hill. Dumgoyne looks most impressive looking back as you start to climb.

Stage 4

The path widens to a grassy vehicle track, passing the ruins of a building and then the small cairn of Garloch Hill and keeping fairly close to the edge of the escarpment, descending to a fence (there is a gate just a short way right, south-east) and continuing over undulating ground which can be boggy in places but is generally easy going to reach another cairn.

Stage 5

From here Earl's Seat can be seen ahead to the south east. The track continues towards it, on the final summit climb the fence to reach the trig point. There are great views particularly north to the Loch Lomond peaks. From Earl's Seat you can either retrace the outward route along the edge of the escarpment which has better views or take a direct line back towards the shoulder between Garloch and Clachertyfarlie Knowes as shown on the route map. For this option follow a faint path WSW.

Stage 6

The route crosses tussocky and wet ground with only an indistinct path, heading between the two lines of fence once off the slope of Earl's Seat is the best option. Cross a short area of peat hags to regain the outward route near Garloch Hill and descend to the north of Dumgoyne to emerge at the stiles where you retrace the outward route back to the distillery.

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