8.11 miles ascent 1520′ descent 1610′
The morning began as we returned to the trail from Drymen, which soon took us to a beautiful, woodsy path through double beech hedgerows.
Not long after getting on the trail we popped out onto a lovely hillside covered with gorse, open fields and sheep.
Continuing along an easy, wide path we descended into the Garadhban Forest. Distant hills and glimpses of Loch Lomond gave us an idea of what delights we had before us.
This trail marker is where one makes the decision to climb up Conic Hill or take the easier walk into Balmaha. We were not about to miss out on the promised panoramas that Conic Hill would afford and began that uphill trek.
As we rambled on through open pasture towards Conic Hill’s summit, the wide-open expanse of the landscape allowed a clear view of this day’s destination (far left on the lake, in the picture) and Loch Lomond.
We approached the Burn of Mar (“burn” is a stream or river in Gaelic) at the base of the “hill”. We comfortably crossed the stream over the Burn of Mar Bridge.
After crossing the burn the pitch of the trail increased as we started to work our way up toward Conic Hill’s summit.
The lower trail was a well drained, stoney path. The further up we went the muddier it became.
The stunning views lifted our spirits and removed any discomfort of the uphill slog.
Conic Hill is part of the Highland Boundary Fault, a geological feature that divides both the physical and cultural aspects of the Lowlands from the Highlands. We were able to sit down out of the wind, have a brief picnic and enjoy this spectacular sight.
As we continued on the trail, which took us over and down the “backside” of the mountain, we found that the trail was under construction and covered in rocks. The rocks eliminated our uphill experience of wading through the mud, but we had to pay close attention as to not trip.
The path then descended into the lush, bluebell adorned Queen Elizabeth Forest Park.
Just minutes later we arrived in the charming village of Balmaha and the relaxing Oak Tree Inn, our stop for the night. This Inn contained a delightful coffee shop with yummy pastries and, consistent with our general interest in bakeries and coffee shops, we had to check it out!
With time still left during the day, we scouted around the village and noticed there was a clear view of other hikers (where we had just climbed) on top of Conic Hill. Today was a most enjoyable day and a great introduction to more adventures to come in the next week.