An active weekend of walks in Glencoe using the SYHA as a base (17 members)

On Friday (9^th July) the two Dave’s journeyed round to the North side of Loch Leven, where a Scottish Rights of Way track started near Callert House. They climbed Tom Meadhoin (621m) and a ‘Graham’ and in the now settled evening were rewarded with extensive views across Loch Leven to Glencoe and to the Mamores. On Saturday they travelled to Mamore Lodge, where they headed up the land rover track to Loch Eilde Mor before crossing the dam at its outlet. They continued along the path to Meall na Cruaidhe before climbing the broad SW ridge to the summit of Glas Bheinn (789m) a 'Corbett'. Return was by the same route arriving back at the car at 5.00pm, and finishing off with refreshments at The Ice Factor in Kinlochleven.

On Saturday (10^th July) eight members climbed Buachaille Etive Mhor up the much improved path in Coire na Tulaich. They reached the summit of Stob Dearg (1022m), the highest of the two Munros on the Buachaille in misty conditions at the top. From there they headed to the second top and continued down to Glen Etive to complete their ‘through walk’.

Five members of the group opted for a circular walk taking in the highest mountain in Argyll - Bidean Nam Bian (1150m), the route being by following the excellent path up into Coire Nan Lochan then up grassy slopes to gain Stob Coire Nan Lochan's north ridge continuing up over extensive boulders to the summit at 1115 meters - this top not qualifying as a munro due to its close proximity of Bidean. The ridge was then followed to the munro summit before dropping down to the Bealach Dearg, descending steeply from there on very loose scree before continuing down into Coire Gabhail along the area known as the Lost Valley

On Sunday (11th July) misty conditions and heavy rain thwarted attempts by eight members to climb tops in the white corrie region of Glencoe.  The above pairing of the two Dave's however were joined by John Low as they headed off to climb Sgorr na Ciche (Pap of Glencoe). The day was forecast to be the best of the weekend, but after a bright start it deteriorated with low cloud and persistent rain. The track starts at a gate next to that marked Laraichean and the track followed to a fork where the right branch is taken and the hillside traversed to reach a gully. The path ascends and eventually cuts to the right before turning back on itself to reach the col. The final slope rises steeply which made scrambling slippy on the wet rock. This is a hill that requires respect especially in adverse weather conditions and is definitely a peak for a clear day.

Great weekend had by all!

TOMINTOUL TO INVERCAULD

Twenty-one members attended the through walk from Tomintoul to Invercauld.

From the south end of Tomintoul the walkers took the small road heading southwest to pass Delnabo Lodge, turning south to cross the River Avon at Delavorar.  From here they headed south following the River Avon upstream to Inchrory. From Inchrory they continued south up Glen Builg to Loch Builg, passing Loch Builg on the east side to join the track by the River Gairn. They then continued south along the track, steeply uphill to the Bealach Dearg.  From the shelter they headed due south towards Invercauld House and then to Invercauld Bridge. The walk was 20 miles and took around 9 hours to complete. Weather was ideal for a long walk with a breeze to make it more pleasant.

Seventeen members and two guests made the journey to Strath Fillan, starting at the car park at Dalrigh. After crossing the bridge over the railway, the route was through the pine woods to reach the open hillside and continuing along a path up the north west side of the Allt Coire Dubhchcraig. The path climbed up the grassy corrie, bearing south as the steeper upper slopes were reached, leading to summit at 978m. Good views of Ben Oss and Ben Lui which, had a covering of snow.

 After a short break seven members continued to Ben Oss, north west along the summit ridge, descending steeply to the col and climbing the ridge to the summit, at 1029m again good views were had especially of Ben Lui. Both groups retraced the route back to Dalrigh.

29 people attended the May weekend, held this year at Cairngorm Lodge (Loch Morlich). Walks over the weekend were:

Friday 30th April
A couple of  members stopped to climb Geal-Charn Mor, near Lynwilg, with three others attempting a top in Drumochter pass.

Saturday 1^st May
The walk started from the hostel to Ryvoan Bothy. From here it was uphill to the first top Meall a' Bhuachaille a Corbett at 810m,  (after descending the path a few headed down as the weather was misty and cold). The remainder carried on to do Creagan Gorm 732m and the third and last top, Craiggowrie 687m. The path dropped to Glenmore forest and back to the hostel by way of Badaguish Outdoor Centre.

Sunday 2^nd May
Climbed Sgor Gaoith 1118m from Glen Feshie. Impressive looking cornices overhanging Loch Einich. Members retraced their steps back to Glen Feshie. Very cold on top, with the sun appearing on the way back down.

Twenty-four people attended Friockheim and District Walker’s meet to Ben Vorlich on Sunday the 19^th April 2010

The walk started from Ardvorlich on the south Loch Earn road. It took 2-1/2 hours to reach the top of Ben Vorlich. Snow showers and low cloud meant that only a brief stop was made at the summit cairn. Walkers then followed the same path back down. On approaching the starting point the weather improved allowing an impressive view of Ben Vorlich’s top, covered with the recent snow showers.

Twenty-one people attended Friockheim and District Walker’s meet to Glas Tulaichean on Sunday the 21st March 2010

The walk started from the Spittal of Glenshee and followed the remains of a railway track which starts just past Glenlochsie Farm.

The 2 foot 6 inch gauge private railway, constructed in 1920, was built for transporting quarried stone and carrying shooting parties to the grouse moors. It was 2.5 miles long and climbed 500 feet.

A broad track was followed to the top of Glas Tulaichean (1051 m (3448 ft)) The last part of the climb was covered in snow and the temperatures at the summit were very cold with a stiff breeze. Only stopping briefly the group headed back down to get out of the wind enjoy their lunch stop.

Congratulations goes to Janice Lemanczyk who climbed her first Munro.

The walk took 7 hours to complete and the conditions were dry and slightly cloudy.

Twenty-Nine people attended Friockheim and District Walker’s meet to Dunkeld - Deuchary Hill.

The walk started from the Cally Car Park and climbed gently through woodland and over good tracks, passing Mill Dam and headed towards Loch Ordie. Before reaching Loch Ordie the walkers split into two groups, twenty-one climbing Deuchary Hill with the remaining eight taking the path to Loch Ordie and around Deuchary Hill. The two groups met up and followed the path back to Mill Dam and the Glack returning to the starting point at the car park. The walk was appx 21 kms and took 5-1/2hrs. The weather was very cold but bright and sunny

Due to weather conditions, the scheduled walk for Glen Esk on Sunday 13th January 2010 was changed to a coastal walk from Inverkeilor to Arbroath via Corbie Knowe & Auchmithie. Eighteen members met at the Victoria Park in Arbroath before heading off to Inverkeilor, leaving sufficient cars for the end of the walk to assist drivers in collecting their vehicles back in Inverkeilor.

The Walkers headed east from Inverkeilor to Corbie Knowe a rather rustic and hap-hazard settlement of beach huts, cabins and caravans jostling for position at the south end of the bay. Prior to this the area was used as a camping ground. A coastal footpath has been constructed by a group of local residents who maintain the path between themselves and Ethie Haven, where the group next headed down to for the first break of the day. Ethie Haven is an old fishing hamlet on the North Sea coast of Angus, lying in a secluded location at the south end of Lunan Bay. Once a thriving fishing village occupied by line fishers and salmon netters, Ethie Haven is now an idyllic retreat with renovated holiday homes. To the south stands Ethie Castle, a Carnegie stronghold from the mid-16th Century, eventually inherited in 1596 by Sir John Carnegie who was created Lord Lour in 1639 and Earl of Ethie in 1647, titles which he later exchanged for those of Baron Rosehill and Inglismaldie and Earl of Northesk.

The party then climbed back up on to the cliff top before stopping briefly by the Chapel that overlooks Kirk Loch. The walk continued round the cliff top before following the path, muddy in places, to arrive at Auchmithie in time for a lunch stop. It was then along the cliffs to Arbroath.  All enjoyed stunning clifftop views in nice bright conditions and covered some 10 miles in total. 

Thirteen members attended Friockheim and District Walker’s meet in Glen Lethnot on Sunday the 20th December 2009.

The walk started at Waterhead at the head of Glen Lethnot and followed a track up the Hill of Berran, then headed easterly to a Stalkers hut, where the group stopped for a break from the cold wind.
They then headed south to the southern ridge of Shank of Peats (706m) then on to the Hill of Glansie (726m). From here they went east to Birse Shades, Mount Sned (621m) and to the final top, the Hill of Mondurran (602m)
From there it was back to the starting point. The weather stayed bright and great views were enjoyed of the snow covered surrounding hills, with a particularly good view of Mount Keen.

Twenty-eight members attended Friockheim and District Walker’s through walk from Spittal of Glenshee to Bride of Cally on Sunday the 18th October 2009.

First part of the walk started at the Spittal of Glenshee, following the signs for the Cateran Trail. The path climbed to the highest part of the walk at 700 meters and followed the track down to Enochdhu (`black meadow` or `moor). This settlement was once a gathering point for Caterans following a cattle raid. Another 3 miles brought the group to Kirkmichael, where 2 members decided to take the opportunity of only completing the first 8 miles of the walk by taking the bus down to Bridge of Cally.

For the next 8 miles the Cateran Trail winds its way through the soft green contours of Strathardle glen, with the final stretch through Blackcraig Forest to the destination of Bridge of Cally.

Total distance covered was 16-17 miles and the weather remained dry and bright.

The Club’s annual high tea followed at the Red House in Coupar Angus

Friockheim and District Walker’s meet to the Glen Shee area on Sunday 20^th September 2009 was attended by twenty-six members and Danka whom club members will remember as a guide from the clubs 2008 walking holiday in the Tatra Mountains.

The walk started from the small car park north of the ski centre along the side of the burn and up the rocky slopes of Carn an Tuirc (1019 metres), the group then split with eighteen members heading across the plateau and up to Tolmount (958 metres). After a lunch stop at Tolmount the path was followed to Tom Buidhe (957 metres) then west over Ca Whims and on to Cairn of Claise (1064 metres) along the top of Garbh Choire following the ridge to Sron na Gaoithe and down the steep slopes back to the car park. The remaining group of nine walked from Carn an Tuirc to Cairn of Claise and followed the same route back to the cars.

Twenty-two members attended Friockheim and District Walkers bus meet to Dalmally, Argyll on Sunday 16th August 2009.

There were two walks, thirteen members set out to climb the Dalmally Horseshoe, starting from a gate that marks the beginning of an old railway track, to a disused lead mine and then following the track passing an old quarry. They crossed a footbridge over the Allt Coire Ghlais and from there they continued up over unmarked soft ground and fairly steep grassy slopes. At 700 metres the wind gusts were very strong, knocking people over, so for safety’s sake the group headed back down to the starting point, disappointed in not achieving what they set out to do

The second group of nine members walked up Glen Strae and back, a distance of 18km, eagles being spotted en route. The weather was reasonable for some time but eventually heavy rain fell towards the end of their walk.

Twenty-four members attended Friockheim and District Walker’s meet to Newtonmore and the Monadhliath Mountains, Sunday the 19th July 2009.

There were two walks, both starting from a parking area on a minor road on the outside (north) of Newtonmore. From here all members headed off on the road to Glenballoch House. From here the members split into two groups, the larger group of twenty-one followed the track by Allt Fionndrigh, NW for approximately 3kms, then turned SW and ascended a boggy path and then headed round the skirts of Meall na Ceardaich over what was largely a peat bog to avoid following the even boggier Gleann Balloch. It was hard going to pick up a path to the ridge leading up to the summit of Carn Dearg. The rain persisted and eventually relented briefly at the top of Carn Dearg, with the sun appearing for appx 5-10 minutes.

After a brief stop at the cairn they headed off downwards, dropping steeply to pick up the faint track from Loch Dubh down Gleann Lochain. On the path the main group met up with the three members that had taken an easier option of heading to Loch Dubh and back. They all followed the path which become more distinct as it approached the bothy at Dalballoch. The weather picked up on the last section of the walk following the River Calder back to the starting point. The walks were 18kms and 16kms respectively, taking 7-1/2 hrs.

IT WAS AN EARLY START FOR 22 MEMBERS OF FRIOCKHEIM & DISTRICT WALKERS, WHEN THEY DEPARTED BY BUS AT 6AM ON SUNDAY 21ST JUNE TO TRAVEL TO GLENMORE LODGE FOR A WALK OF THE LAIRIG AN LAOIGH THROUGH TO THE LINN OF DEE.

THE WALK STARTED, IN LOVELY SUNNY WEATHER, AND HEADED IN AN EASTERLY DIRECTION TOWARDS BYNACK STABLES.  AFTER A BRIEF STOP SOME MEMBERS OPTED TO CLIMB THE MUNRO BYNACK MOR (1090M) WITH THE REMAINDER FOLLOWING THE TRACK WHICH CLIMBED TO APPROXIMATELY 800M AROUND THE SIDE, TAKING IN THE GREAT VIEWS OF THE SPEYSIDE AREA.

THE GROUP MET UP AGAIN AT THE FORDS OF AVON WHERE LUNCH WAS ENJOYED AT EITHER SIDE OF THE RIVER, SOME HAVING MADE THE CROSSING FIRST.  ALL EVENTUALLY MADE IT SAFELY TO THE OTHER SIDE HAVING DONNED VARIOUS TYPES OF FOOTWEAR AS THE RIVER WAS IN SOME PLACES UP TO THE KNEES.

THE WALK CONTINUED SOUTH TOWARDS GLEN DERRY WITH VIEWS OF THE MUNROS ON EITHER SIDE INCLUDING DERRY CAIRNGORM, THE DESTINATION OF A PREVIOUS OUTING, AND THROUGH TO DERRY LODGE.  FROM THERE IT WAS ON HOT AND TIRED FEET THAT THE LAST 5KM WAS MADE TO WHERE THE BUS WAS WAITING AT THE LINN OF DEE.  A TOTAL DISTANCE OF 30KM (19 MILES) WAS WALKED WITH A FEW STOPS ALONG THE WAY FOR REFRESHMENTS AND TO ENJOY THE WARM AND DRY WEATHER.

Twenty-three members attended Friockheim and District Walker’s meet to the Ben Lawers area for a circular of the Tarmachan ridge on Sunday 17^th May 2009.

The walk started from the NTS visitor centre with a short walk up the road to the bridge crossing the Allt a’ Mhoirneas, the path was followed westwards over the rising moorland to reach the south ridge of Meall nan Tarmachan and up to the south east top (923m), the group then descended to the col for a break before climbing the craggy south east face to the summit of Meall nan Tarmachan (1044m).

Any early clouds had now lifted and the group could see the winding ridge ahead, with gusting winds the walkers made their way carefully along the ridge above the cliffs of Cam Chreag, over Meall Garbh and down to a col for lunch in a sheltered spot.

The route then continued over Beinn na Eachan and Creag na Caillich before descending the southwest grassy slopes into Coire Fionn Lairige to pick up a track back to the visitors centre.

Two members opted for a low level walk to the disused quarry lying south of Beinn na Eachan and returning via the same route.

Twenty-three club members attended Friockheim and District Walker’s May weekend at the Skyewalker Independent Hostel near Portnalong in the Isle of Skye.

Saturday - Sligachan to Loch Coruisk

The walk started from the car park at the Sligachan Hotel , then over the old packhorse bridge. From here we followed the sign post to ‘Elgol & Loch Coruisk’. The path follows the River Sligachan on the east bank for approximately four miles, passing between the impressive peaks of Marsco on the left and the Munro of Sgurr nan Gillean on the right. We then reached a junction with another track which heads left towards impressive Bla Bheinn. Choosing the track on the right took us in a southerly direction, steepening as we headed to Loch Coruisk. After this climb, we were rewarded with a great view of the Loch. We stopped here for a while and admired the magnificent loch surrounded by towering Cuillin mountains - a very dramatic conclusion to the outward leg of this walk. We then retraced our steps back through Glen Sligachan back to the hotel, unfortunately being caught in the heavy rain that persisted throughout the remainder of the day. Distance covered appx 11 miles

Sunday - MacLeod's Tables

MacLeod's Tables are impressive flat-topped mountains, Healabhal Beag (1601 ft) and Healabhal Mor (1538 ft), which rise in gentle contrast to the jagged peaks of the Black Cuillins and stand at the Eastern boundary of the Glendale Estate. The starting point was about 2km along the B884 from Dunvegan, just beyond the bridge over the Osdale River. Their isolated location in the north-west of Skye means they have excellent views over the rest of the island and to the Outer Hebrides. The walking was fairly straightforward but taking in both tops still involved over 700m of ascent. In fact on approaching the top instead of expecting a flat topped hill there was a steep grassy climb to the cairns.

Entertainment – Quizzes and Music nights

Quizzes were held on Friday, Saturday & Sunday, with Sunday night becoming a musical evening with the hosts entertaining us with their folk music. Club members joined in, not only with singing, but playing the accordion, the banjo and bothy ballads.

Thirty-six members attended Friockheim and District Walker’s walk up Schiehallion (1,083 metres) on Sunday 19^th April 2009.

The previous wide track up Schiehallion created by the passage of thousands of feet has been replaced by an alternative route put in by the conservation group, the John Muir Trust, who acquired (East) Schiehallion in Sept 1999

Members reached the top in perfect weather, with brilliant blue skies.

The views from the top took in the whole of the Southern Highlands, with the peaks around Rannoch Moor, Glencoe and Ben Nevis being particularly prominent.

Some of the group made a short stop at Weem hotel for a well-deserved refreshment on the journey home.

Twenty-nine members attended Friockheim and District Walker’s walk in Glenshee on Sunday 15^th March 2009.

The walk started from Invereddrie farm climbing the path East to a wooden style then over the river Allt Mor and on to Loch Beanie, then continuing East from the end of the loch to the Angus/Perthshire boundary wall before stopping for a break.

Twenty-three members followed the fence posts North up the SSE ridge of Craigenloch Hill then NE for a km to the highest point of the day Monamenach at a height of 807m and descending NW to the bealach (Glack of Glengairney) for lunch before continuing on to Black Hill. The descent was down the SW shoulder over Carn Dearg picking up a land rover track before joining the Cateran Trail for the last km back to Invereddrie Farm.

The remaining group of six decided on an ascent of Duchary hill and along the ridge before descending down by the forest joining the Cateran Trail back to the start point.

Both routes took 5.1/2 hours to complete.

Twenty-six members attended Friockheim and District Walker’s walk in Glen Prosen on Sunday 18^th January 2009.

All twenty-six members started from the parking area past the Glen Prosen lodge and walked along the glen past Old Craig, the party then split with nineteen members opting to walk north towards Lick, Shank of Driesh and then up to Driesh (947 metres), after everybody had reach the top it was decided to make a quick exit down to the col between dreish and the Hill of strone to escape from the cold winds and a spot of lunch on the sheltered north face with views down into Glen Clova. After lunch it was a bit of cross country along the side of Dead water and then through Glenclova forest back to the start point.

The remaining seven members continued along Glen Prosen to the Kilbo ruin and part way into Glen Finlet with views of Glen Isla, the group then return along the same route back to the cars.

Both routes took 5 hours to complete.

Thirty members attended Friockheim and District Walker’s walk in Glen Uig on Sunday 21^st December 2008.

The walk started from Wester Lednathie farm following the path up to Bodandere hill and then on to Craig Marloch in a strong westerly wind making the walking difficult, the group then descend down to the Burn of Dairy where they took a break out of the wind.

Twenty-six members continued to Balintore Castle and then back up the hill to Cat Law with the wind getting stronger as the height increased, a short stop in the sheltered peat hags for a bite to eat was taken before following the fence line down to meet the path and back down to the cars.

The remaining four members opted for the more sheltered route via Glen Quharity and the flat walk out along Glen Uig to the starting point.

The length of the route was 14Km taking 5.1/2 hours to complete.

Twenty-nine members attended Friockheim and District Walker’s walk in Glen Doll on Sunday 16^th November 2008.

The walk started from the car park in Glen doll following the path to Moulzie and up to Bachnagairn. The walkers enjoyed a short tea stop in the winter sunshine before a short climb up to Glittering Skellies, then into the cold Northwest wind towards Loch Esk and skirting the North side of Graigs of Loch Esk before descending onto Jock’s Road.

One female member slipped on the path, sustaining a broken ankle and was airlifted by RAF helicopter to Ninewells hospital giving some members a chance to take photographs of the rescue. After being put in plaster she was allowed home and all members wish her a speedy recovery.

The remaining members completed the walk back to the car park via Glen Doll.

Thirty-three members attended Friockheim and District Walker’s through walk from Loch Earn to Loch Tay.

The walk was re-scheduled at the last minute, to start from Loch Earn as the high winds forecast for the day would be behind the walkers.

Reasonably good conditions prevailed to start with but after a short tea stop just out of Glen Tarken forest the rain started and the wind became stronger.

A few times the sun threatened to appear but soon it was to be strong wind and heavy rain throughout the majority of the walk.

The members followed the good track, which led up past Creag Dubh and then down to Glen Beich to a weir. From here they followed a bearing up to a landmark just east of the crags of Cul na Creige. Crossing a fast flowing burn required assistance and one member immersed himself in the cold water to provide a much-appreciated helping hand.

Once at the landmark the members headed down to the reservoir (Lochan Breaclaich) and followed the shoreline westward until they arrived at a good track.

With the track ending it was a downward plod on the tarmac road to reach the bus at Killin. Two members spotted a shortcut through the forest and managed to get down ahead of the main party to grab a quick pint at the Falls of Dochart Hotel.

Once at the bus and dried off and changed the members headed home stopping at the Crieff Hotel for and enjoyable high tea.

Eighteen members attended Friockheim and District Walker’s to the Lawers range on Sunday 20^th September 2008.

Thirty-two members attended Friockheim and District Walker’s meet (by bus) to Creag Meagaidh.

The walk started from Aberarder at the Creag Meagaidh National Nature Reserve car park by Loch Laggan.

Members split into two groups, with the larger group of twenty-five setting off to climb to the summit cairn and the remaining seven setting a more leisurely pace to walk to Lochan a’ Choire and back.

From Aberarder a good path went all the way to Lochan a’ Choire, where impressive views were had of the cliffs surrounding the corrie of Coire Ardair on the north-eastern face.

From here it was up steep stony and sometimes scree covered slope to the prominent col called ‘The Window’. The Window forms the bealach between Creag Meagaidh and Stob Poite Coire Ardair. At the col the walkers turned south-east to reach the summit plateau and continued across it for 1½ kilometres to the summit at 1128m (3701ft) taking 3-1/2 hours to reach the top. It was clear but cool conditions at the top with good views all round. They returned by the same route, intending to stop for a break at the Lochan but the rain just started and they decided to plod on back down the path to the car park. The weather improved not long before reaching the bus.

Twenty-six members attended Friockheim and District Walker’s meet at Linn O’ Dee near Braemar on Sunday 27th July. Some members opted for staying at Braemar Hostel on Saturday night to avoid the early start on Sunday morning. They all dined out, celebrating a birthday at a restaurant in Braemar and afterwards enjoyed Gaberlunzie, the veteran folk duo who were appearing in Braemar village hall.

On the Sunday a group of twenty-one walked from Linn O’ Dee to Derry Lodge. From here they followed the Glen Lui track and took the path following the Luibeg Burn. Thankfully crossing the burn wasn’t too difficult as the water was low and then up the long climb by Sron Riach to reach the top of Ben Macdui.

They then descended east and headed north-east by a path which drops towards Loch Etchachan, and before reaching the loch turned south-east along the ridge of Derry Cairngorm. They continued over the bouldery summit cone and along the ridge over Carn Crom and down to Derry Lodge and took the track down Glen Lui and onwards to Derry Lodge and finally back to the car park at the Linn O’ Dee.

They covered 16 miles and took 10 hours. The weather was mostly warm and humid with a short hailstone shower cooling things down slightly.

Forty-eight members attended Friockheim and District Walker’s through walk from Achallater to Loch Muick.

The walkers set off at the start of Glen Callater on the Braemar road and followed the track to Loch Callater lodge.

From here the path headed upwards by Carn an Sagairt Mor (1047 metres) and over to take in two tops of Lochnagar, Ca Carn Beag (1150 metres) and Ca Carn Mor (1155 metres).

The path to the finishing point in Glen Muick followed a good path and track by Clais Rathadan and the forest at Alt na Guibhsaich.

Twenty-six members attended Friockheim and District Walker’s to Dalwhinnie.

The walkers started out on a sunny morning for a walk to The Fara, starting from the railway station the group had a 2Km walk along Loch Ericht before everyone climbed the steep slope to the large summit cairn at 911m.  An early lunch was enjoyed with great views of the surrounding hills and Loch Ericht. 

The walk continued along the ridge to Meall Cruaidh at 897m, then descended south to pick up the track at Ben Alder Lodge for the return along the Loch to the starting point. 

A distance of approximately 21Km was covered in perfect conditions with everyone enjoying a great day out.

Thirty-one members attended Friockheim and District Walker’s May weekend, based at ‘Chase the Wild Goose Hostel’ in the village of Banavie, by Fort William.

On Saturday 3^rd May 25 members went up Ben Nevis, starting at the Glen Nevis Visitor Centre and following the old pony track that starts from Achintee and crosses the flanks of Meall ant Suidhe to the halfway lochan, where they stopped for a break. From the lochan the track consisted of a series of uphill zigzags over increasingly bouldery ground with snow encountered about 3,5000ft. The mist cleared intermittently at the summit, providing rewarding views of the surrounding hills. On return some members stopped for refreshing drinks at the large barn/pub at Achintee. The walk was 10 miles and weather was much better than forecast, with bright conditions all day.

Six members had an easier day, walking through the gorge at Glen Nevis to see the Steall Falls.

On Sunday 4th May twenty-one members started from the Polldubh car park in Glen Nevis and followed the forest track, before a steep grassy climb to the ridge leading to Mullach nan Coirean. Strong, gusty conditions required care but these conditions abated on the return journey, although most of the group had difficulty keeping their feet in the boggy conditions on the lower approach back to the forest. Higher up there were good views of Sgurr a Mhaim and of the Nevis hills. Rain came in mid afternoon and became heavy throughout the remainder of the day.

Ten members walked a section of the great Glen Way following the Caledonian Canal from Neptune’s Staircase.

On Monday some members made their way back home, stopping at Loch Laggan for a walk, with two intrepid walkers going back to Glen Nevis in sunny conditions to climb Sgurr a Mhaim.

Thirty-five members attended Friockheim and District Walker’s Clova Circuit of Glen Doll, Bachnagairn, Loch Muick and Capel Mounth.

The walkers started out in dry and bright conditions from the Glen Doll car park and headed up to Bachnagairn, where they stopped for a short tea stop.

With two members deciding to have a more leisurely day, the remaining thirty-two climbed to Sandy Hillock, where they took the path that followed the hill-top running alongside Loch Muick. They met another large group of walkers from Banff, heading in the opposite direction and stopped to exchange some friendly banter.

The path headed down to the Lochside where the party had a lunch stop. From here they followed the path by the Loch past the boathouse to the junction at the start of the Capel Mounth. From here it was a long slog upwards on the Capel on a mostly snow covered path until just past Gallows Hill where the path dropped steeply to the floor of the Glen Doll. From here the party headed back to the car park. Distance covered was 22kms, which took appx 8-1/2 hours in bright and sunny weather, with an accompanying cool wind.

Thirty members attended Friockheim and District Walker’s to Bridge Of Orchy on Sunday 16^th March 2008.

Only twenty nine members starting out from Bridge Of Orchy railway station, one turned up minus their boots, the walkers followed the path alongside the Allt Coire an dothaidh up to the cairn at the bealach, three members decided this was far enough in the cold winds and returned by the same path to the starting point. The rest of the group headed south along the ridge to the summit of Beinn Dorain (1076 metres) where they stopped for a well earned rest and a spot of lunch in the bright sunshine, they then retraced their steps back to the bealach, twelve members made the descent back to the cars while the remaining fourteen made the ascent to Beinn Dothaidh (1004 metres), they were greeted with 360 degree views of the snow capped mountains and a clear view of Ben Nevis, the group then returned back to the bealach and down to the railway station thirty minutes behind the others.  The length of the route was 12Km taking 7 hours to complete.

Twenty-eight members attended Friockheim and District Walker’s to Glenshee on Sunday 17^th February 2008.

The walkers started out from Glenshee Ski Centre in bright sunshine and a biting cold wind to climb the first Munro of the day Carn Aosda (917 metres), then a descent down to the edge of Loch Vrotachan for a welcome stop out of the wind. The group then split with twenty three members heading out to the second Munro Carn a Gheoidh (975 metres) then descending down a hard packed snowy slope to a sheltered spot for lunch, then it was on to the last Munro of the day Cairnwell (933 metres), from there they retraced their steps to Loch Vrotachan and back to the car park. The remaining five members walked to the Cairnwell and followed the same route back to the cars; the hike up to Cairnwell saw Bruce Coull complete his one hundredth Munro. The length of the route was 11Km taking 6 hours to complete.

Thirty-five members attended Friockheim and District Walker’s to Glenlethnot on Sunday 20^th January 2008.

The walkers started out from Waterhead at the head of glenlethnot and set out towards the Hill of Berran, after 15 minutes they were walking on hard packed snow with blue skies overhead, they then continued up to Ruragh at a height of 736 metres. It was then a trek into the cold winds to Dog Hillock and up to the trig point at Hill of Glansie (726 metres), it was then on to Birse Shades to have lunch in a sheltered spot. The route back to the cars took them over Mount Sned and back down to Waterhead with much falling about on the icy slopes. The length of the route was 13Km taking 5.1/2 hours to complete.

Thirty-two members attended Friockheim and District Walker’s to Clachnaben on Sunday 16^th December 2007.

The walkers wearing an assortment of Santa hats started from Glen Dye on a frosty morning and followed the path Northwards up to Miller’s Bog then up to Clachnaben at a height of 589 metres, the group sheltered from the strong wind and took the opportunity for a refreshment. They then continued to Hill of Edendocher where it was decided to shorten the walk due to the windy conditions and headed southwards past Cairn of Finglenny to Char bothy. After a short lunch stop in much more pleasant conditions they walked eastwards along Glen Dye back to the starting point. The length of the route was 13Km taking 5 hours to complete.

Twenty-one members attended Friockheim and District Walker’s Glenisla meet on Sunday 18^th November 2007.

The walkers started out from Freuchies in wet conditions in the morning as they followed the path up to Loch Shandra, from there the easterly path was followed past Craighead and up to the towards Badandun Hill, 15 members climbed the hill at a height of 740 metres in snowy conditions, while the others continued round the side of the hill. The main group then headed in a northeasterly direction crossing a deer fence at the edge of the forest where lunch was taken. Both groups then met up and headed in a southerly direction through the forest back to the starting point. The length of the route was 18Km taking 6 hours to complete climbing a total of 500 metres.

Forty-one members attended Friockheim and District Walker’s through walk on Sunday 21^st October 2007 from Blackford to Tillicoutry over the Ochils.

The walkers started out in drizzly and overcast conditions in the morning as they headed up the public right of way track, which leads round the shoulder of Kinpauch Hill and on top the Glen of Kinpauch. The track became a footpath and continued across a watershed and down Glen Bee towards the Upper Glendevon Reservoir. At this point they followed the path along the hillside above the loch, until they reached the bridge across the River Devon. From the bridge the path turned back on itself and skirted around Burnfoot Hill, which slopes steeply into the water, until the cottage of Blackhills at the foot of the Broich Glen.

They crossed the bridge here and walked to the head of the glen up its easterly side. The path became very vague at points en-route and map reading and GPS skills were used to ensure the large party stayed on the right course.

Once they reached the watershed at the head of Glen Broich. at the highest point on the route, more navigation was required to pick up the path in the narrow glen of the Gannel Burn, leading down to Tillicoultry. The weather and visibility improved at this point with good views all round. The path gradually became more distinct as it passed the deep-set Mill Glen, a rocky gorge that used to supply power to the mills of Tillicoultry, where the bus met the walkers.

Length: 10 miles

Height climbed: 1,370ft/420m

Twenty-four members who attended Friockheim and District Walker’s meet on Sunday 16th September to Glas Maol & Creag Leacach found the weather forecasters got it right again, it rained all day.

All members headed in the same direction from the car park at the old Devil’s elbow towards Leacann Dubh where a welcome tea break and a few minutes shelter from the rain in the hut was had, then on to Meall Odhar (922 metres). From there 17 members braved the elements to the first Munro, Glas Maol (1068 metres), while the others traced their steps back to the car park. The main party then went on to the second Munro, Creag Leacach (987 metres) and then a quick descent down the grassy slopes to the starting point feeling a bit miserable by that time.

Thirty-seven members who attended Friockheim and District Walker’s (bus) meet on Sunday 19th August to Beinn Ime & Beinn Narnain were delighted to find that the Weather Forecasters had got it right and the sun was truly shining on the Arrochar Alps.

Six members went on the low level circular walk through the Ardgartan forest, covering 11 miles, heading north from Succoth and turning west crossing the Alt Coiregrogain stream. The walkers then followed the track to the dam at Loch Sloy before heading back to Arrochar by way of Glen Loin.

Two intrepid walkers (Colin and Dave) climbed Beinn Narnairn 926 metres, Beinn Ime 1011 meters and the Cobbler (Ben Arthur) 884 metres.

Four club members climbed Beinn Narnairn and Beinn Ime.

Nine members climbed Beinn Narnairn taking the path at the beallach of the Alt a Bhalachain track. The return route to Arrochar skirting Cruach nam Miseag turned out to be quite wet with the recent spells of rain.

The remaining party of sixteen climbed Beinn Ime, following the Alt a Bhalachain track up and back.

Twenty-four club members attended on Sunday 15 July to Glen Lyon.

The walk started from Invervar and followed the Invervar burn to the top of the forest and up the steep grassy slopes to the summit of Carn Gorm (1029m) where lunch was taken with excellent views of Schiehallion, Loch Rannoch and Glen Coe, the walk continued on to a broad ridge past the side of An Sgor and on to the summit of Meall Garbh (968m). The decent was then down the grassy slopes back to the Invervar burn and following a path back to the car park.

The group took 7hrs to complete the two Munros and returned tired but satisfied.

The weather throughout the day was sunny with very little wind, with midges also enjoying the warm weather.

Twenty-one club members attended Friockheim and District Walker’s meet on Sunday 21st May to Beinn a’ Ghlo.

The weather throughout the day was mainly dry with sunny spells, getting brighter as the day progressed. A couple of light showers appeared with a hailstones at the final summit.

Twenty-five club members attended Friockheim and District Walker’s May weekend Ambleside  in the Lake District.

Thirty-three club members attended Friockheim and District Walker’s meet on Sunday 15th April.

Twenty-seven club members attended Friockheim and District Walker’s meet on Sunday 18th March.

Some 10kms were covered and the weather turned out bright and sunny but nonetheless windy.

The walk started from Invermark at the head of Glen Esk and followed the track along the north side of Loch Lee, then over the bridge and up through the forest track by the Shank of Inchgrundle. From Cairn Lick the walkers headed to Craig Maskeldie to take the opportunity to view the steep drop from here to the floor of the Glen. In the bright sunshine with accompanying blue skies there were clear views of Lochnagar and surrounding hills.

The party then all headed down to cross the bridge at the Falls of Damff, which was in full spate. The route eventually met the bridge previously crossed in Glen Lee and returned to Invermark by way of Loch Lee.