Knockan Crag trail

Summary

This interpretative trail brings the geology of the Moine Thrust to life as the path climbs past the exposed rocks and up onto the top of the Knockan Crag. From here there are spectacular views over Assynt. The trail includes sculptures and poetry as well as places to sit and a treasure hunt for younger children.

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Grade

Bog Factor

Rating

Terrain

Easy to follow trail with some sections of rocky steps. As the path climbs to the top of the crag it can be exposed and therefore waterproofs and good footwear are needed.

Getting there

Start

Knockan Crag visitor centre on A837 just south of Elphin.

Public Transport

Very limited bus service from Ullapool.

Start Grid Ref

NC188091

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Walk Statistics

Distance: 2km / 1.25 miles
Time: 1 hour
Ascent: 185m (Profile)

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Walk Description

User reports (7)

Stage 1

From the car park walk up to the hexagonal visitor centre with its turfed roof. Here there is an explanation of the Moine Thrust, why one type of rock 500 million years older ended up being thrust upwards to lie above another band of rock. From the centre follow the path and at a junction keep to the lower path, marked Trails.

Stage 2

The trail passes a pipe rock display explaining that the white tubes seen in the rock here are fossils of pipe worms. The path continues upwards, turning left at a junction and climbing to pass Jo Smith's impressive Globe sculpture on the right.

Stage 3

Soon the path crosses a small wooden bridge, continue upwards following a sign for Moine Thrust. Eventually you reach an area where the two rock bands are exposed.

Stage 4

Continue on the path as it climbs up the crag on well made stone steps. From this section there are lovely views back over the Inverpolly area.

Stage 5

A short diversion to the left takes you to a viewpoint at the northern end of the trail. From here you can see out over Assynt, with Suilven and Canisp both prominent. Backtrack to the main path and follow it along the top of the crag. Part way along there are particularly good views of Lochan an Ais below and wee Stac Pollaidh in the distance between Cul Mòr and Cul Beag.

Stage 6

The path passes another short diversion to the left to the Eagle Stone viewpoint and then descends in a series of zig zags back to the car park.

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