Highlight • Viewpoint
White Coomb Summit
Hiking
5.0
(19)
Walking routes to White Coomb have plenty going for them. An ascent to dramatically situated Loch Skeen, nestled below the summit slopes, takes you alongside Grey Mare’s Tail, one of Britain’s highest and most spectacular waterfalls.
Circular routes are possible, with a horseshoe above Carrifran Burn taking you past a gloriously ambitious woodland regeneration project and to the wonderfully named boggy ground of Rotten Bottom. Needless to say, bring your waterproof boots.
From the top on a clear day, both east and west coasts can be seen: the Firth of Forth to the north and the Solway Coast to the south, beyond which the mountains of the Lake District decorate the horizon. Closer by, the rugged, green Moffat Hills roll away in all directions.
Moffat is home to a number of hotels and guesthouses and is the obvious base for accessing this blissfully tranquil landscape. Winter is a great time for a ramble, and ice axes and crampons are only required in the most extreme conditions.
Tips
March 8, 2023
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near White Coomb Summit
4.2
(26)
162
hikers
12.4km
04:42
680m
680m
Embark on the White Coomb and Loch Skeen Circular, a challenging hike that immerses you in the rugged beauty of the Moffat Hills. This moderate route spans 7.7 miles (12.4 km) and involves a significant elevation gain of 2241 feet (683 metres), typically taking around 4 hours and 41 minutes to complete. You will experience a true 'Highlands feel' as you ascend past the impressive Grey Mare's Tail Waterfall and discover the serene blue waters of Loch Skeen nestled among the mountains. From the summits of Lochcraig Head and White Coomb, you can enjoy expansive panoramic views, sometimes reaching as far as the Lake District on a clear day.
Be prepared for demanding conditions on this trail; you will encounter significant boggy moorland, especially after Loch Skeen, and the paths can become faint beyond the initial ascent. The descent from White Coomb is steep and rocky, and a burn crossing might be difficult after heavy rains. For your comfort and safety, gaiters and hiking poles are highly recommended to navigate the challenging terrain effectively.
This circular route is situated within the Grey Mare's Tail Nature Reserve, an area renowned for its dramatic landscapes and the iconic Grey Mare's Tail Waterfall, one of the UK's highest. The trail offers a unique opportunity to explore the wild, untamed character of the Southern Uplands, making it a notable adventure for those seeking a remote and rewarding hiking experience in Scotland.
6
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 810 m
Good to know
Family Friendly
yes
Wheelchair access
no
Dog Friendly
yes
Weather
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Wednesday 30 September
12°C
8°C
15 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 23.0 km/h
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