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October 6, 2017
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Loch Skeen
4.9
(71)
768
hikers
4.63km
02:03
270m
270m
Embark on the Loch Skeen return via Grey Mare's Tail, a moderate hike covering 2.9 miles (4.6 km) with a significant 901 feet (275 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 3 minutes. The trail begins with a steep, rocky ascent alongside the impressive 60-meter Grey Mare's Tail waterfall, offering dramatic views back over Moffat Dale. As you climb, the path can be uneven and slippery, eventually leveling out to follow the Tail Burn before reaching the tranquil, remote Loch Skeen, nestled among rugged hills.
Planning your visit requires good fitness and surefootedness, especially for the initial climb and on potentially slippery sections. The terrain near Loch Skeen can be boggy, so sturdy, waterproof walking boots with good grip are highly recommended for your comfort and safety. This popular route starts at the Grey Mare's Tail Nature Reserve, near Moffat, providing clear access to the trailhead.
This trail is set within the Grey Mare's Tail Nature Reserve, a Special Area of Conservation managed by the National Trust for Scotland. You will experience a wild, mountainous landscape shaped by glacial forces, home to rare upland plants and diverse wildlife like peregrine falcons and feral goats. Loch Skeen itself is Southern Scotland's highest upland loch, sitting over 500 meters (1640 feet) above sea level, and is notable for housing Britain's rarest freshwater fish, the vendace.
4.2
(20)
149
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.
4.9
(20)
112
hikers
9.70km
03:56
580m
580m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Details
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Elevation 510 m
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