Dumgoyne and Earl's Seat, near Killearn

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.

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 start point in Google Maps for directions.

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 Essentials page for basic information on the skills, techniques and knowledge needed for winter hillwalking.

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Grade (key)

Bog Factor (key)

Walk Statistics

Distance: 10.75km / 6.75 miles
Time (summer conditions): 3 - 4 hours
Ascent: 709m (Profile)
Start Grid Ref: NS526827

Summits Climbed

Sub 2000: Earl's Seat

Maps / GPS

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Accommodation

Walk Description

Stage 1

There is limited parking at the west side of the road just north of Glengoyne Distillery and also just opposite the 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 north end of the parking area, cross the road and head up the track passing a couple of houses. Keep right further on where the track forks and go over the bridge. Here you can follow the shortcut through the trees on the left to emerge below a house. Bear right through the metal farm gate and at the edge of the pine trees turn left to follow a faint path over a track and the field to stiles leading directly to the steep path up Dumgoyne.

Stage 2

Follow the main path which heads directly up the steep slope and is a bit eroded in places and then bears right on a better path to curve round to make a more gentle approach 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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