Edenmill to the Whangie
Overview
12.8 km
Description
Starting and finishing at Edenmill Farm, this walk provides a taste of the most remote John Muir Way section, without the need to walk all 18 miles of it!
Start with a gradual climb to Kilmannan Reservoir before following the John Muir Way along the southern edge of Burncrooks Reservoir. The track then departs the Way, turning right to continue around the reservoir.
Just as you leave the reservoir behind, you have the choice to turn left up the grassy and often muddy track to the strange rock formations of the Whangie and Auchineden Hill, or continue straight on to shorten this route and head back on the main track to Edenmill.
The extra climb to the Whangie is worth the effort though, as you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views towards Loch Lomond, the Highlands and the Campsies.
Following the grassy unmarked path to descend from Auchineden summit, the trail rejoins the John Muir Way for the last downhill stretch back to Edenmill.
Terrain
This route is almost completely off-road and in fact the only tarmac section is the private road through Auchineden Estate on the final approach to Edenmill. It mainly uses well established paths and a section of the waymarked John Muir Way. The ascent up to the Whangie is on an unmarked and often boggy path from the northeast corner of Burncrooks Reservoir. Due to the hills and relatively remote location, we have graded it medium difficulty.
Getting There
By rail: There are no train stations nearby.
By bus: Strathblane has the nearest bus service, on the X10 Glasgow-Stirling route.
By car: There is ample parking at Edenmill Farm. Please take care on the private road leading into Auchineden Estate.
Facilities
This is a great area to get away from the bustle of city life although this does mean there aren’t any facilities once you’re out on the route. However Edenmill is a great base for exploring the area and you can treat yourself to a wee reward in the café and farm shop at the end of your walk.
For a full listing of businesses and attractions on this route, view it on the Plan Your Trip page.
Points of interest
The Whangie
Iconic hill walk up to Auchineden summit in the Campsie Fells, giving great hill and moorland vistas.
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Edenmill Farm
The start/finish of this route has a farm shop, café, accommodation and plentiful parking. You can also have your John Muir Way passport stamped here.
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