We are the Kilmarnock & Loudoun Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
The walk leader is Ken Stow (mobile 07543698477)
To start the walk we follow the road back the way we came to the cattle grid, then turn right on to a farm track. Soon we begin to gain height until we reach a cairn to our right. From here the path becomes quite muddy for a while until we follow a fence line steeply uphill, eventually reaching the top of Blackcraig, and on to the trig point. Leaving the trig point we soon begin to descend the other side of the hill. Blacklorg is our next objective which we achieve by following a feint grassy path to the top. From here we begin our decent towards the Afton Reservoir Dam, passing over Cannock Hill along the way. After we reach the dam we follow the road back to our start point.
Risk Assessment: the route will be very boggy in places, and the steep descent from Blacklorg will be quite slippery. I would strongly recommend sturdy, waterproof boots, gaiters and poles. Please also be mindful how quickly weather conditions can change in these hills, and bring weatherproof and warm clothing regardless of the weather forecast.
Meet at East Ayrshire Council Headquarters, 95 London Road, Kilmarnock at 08:45 to arrange car share and leave prompt at 09:00. Please let Ken know if you intend to travel direct to the start point. (Mobile 07543698477)
From Kilmarnock take the A76 south until you reach New Cumnock (20 miles approximately). At the mini roundabout T junction turn right towards Dalmellington then take the first left turn signposted "Cemetery". Follow this narrow road for around 3.5 miles until you cross a cattle grid. After half a mile further on, parking is to the left of the road immediately after the second of two passing places with double yellow lines. Total mileage 48 miles (£16 per car)
