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There are a total of 8 walks today

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Route Summary
Maps OS Explorer 318 Landranger 77 Harveys Galloway Hills
This is another way to the top of the South of scotland, The Merrick, but this is a very challenging route, particularly the middle section which is pathless, and demands the highest levels of fitness. However, the rewards of a long and hard day far outweigh the aches and pains.

The route starts at Loch Trool GR415804 and follows the road to Glenhead over the Buchan Bridge. Crossing a fence the path goes north westerly for 2K towards the Black Gairy and on to the top of Buchan Hill GR427816. Going almost due north again on a good path along the Rig of Loch Enoch, visiting the Grey Man before reaching Loch Enoch and a break to admire the white sand and sparkling water. The middle section up and down Mullwharchar has tracks rather than paths with sections of potentially boggy ground. In the event of prolonged heavy rain the outflow from Loch Enoch, the Eglin Lane, could cause a detour.

The planned route keeps to the west side of Loch Enoch followed by steep 1K climb to the top of Mullwharchar, then due east for 2.5K towards Loch Twachtan.From here there is another steep climb to the col between Kirriereoch Hill and the Merrick followed by the last steep climb of the day to the top of the Merick where a well deserved break will be taken.

The return route is by the well defined tourist path along the Neive of the Spit, short climb to Benyellary, down to Culsharg and finally following the Buchan Burn back to Loch Trool. Although 18K the legs will feel as though they have done 24K but this is a classic in the Galloways and worth the effort.

Route Summary
Maps OS Explorer 318 Landranger 77
The traverse of the Kells is one of our must dos and again we have included it for 2009 but by changing direction to south/north the walk takes on a completely different perspective and with a new approach.

The start is from Forrest Lodge GR553863 and the initial leg is on forest roads but with open aspects. The footpath to the edge of the forest GR517873 is signposted and from this point the walk is without trees and a path broadly following the Folk Burn is not too difficult to find and it leads to the summit plateau of Corserine where a welcome break can be taken. The top of the ridge gives a wonderful panoramic vista and the northerly direction ensures that the background of the Clyde Estuary and the hills beyond is constantly in your eyes. The route is straightforward with the occasional muddy section and continues for 7K crossing the tops of Carlin's Cairn, Meaul, Bow and finally Coran of Portmark lying opposite Loch Doon. This section remains above 2000 feet for its entire length.

The homeward leg goes easterly to pick up a path that passes the old mine workings and a road leads to the pick up at Garryhorn GR547934.

Route Summary
Text tbc

Route Summary
Maps OS Explorer 310 Landranger 82/76
This is part of the Southern Upland Way but the theme is historical encompassing prehistorical times, the Pilgrims Route and Killing times. We plan to engage a loacl historian who will explain the importance of this area. The walk itself is worth doing simply for the experience as it is one of the best sections of the SUW and with continuing harvesting it has a more open aspect than ever before. The route has been shortened from a previous one making it a more pleasant, but still challenging, day out.

The start is south of New Luce at GR174626 and the first 7ks are on good tracks and roads passing chambered cairns and hut circles. The route enters the forest 1.5k beyond the end of the road and a further 3K lunch will be taken where there is a surprise for those who have not previously walked this path. The standing stones of Laggangarn are soon reached and a further 1K the Wells of the Rees. The path emerges into a clearing and the high point of the walk Craig Airie Fell is ahead and a gentle climb takes you to the finest panoramic view of the Awfu Hand, Minnigaff Hills and the Cairnsmore of Fleet massif. It is worth biding for a few minutes to take in the stunning views. The path descends back to the forest road and just before Loch Derry is passed the sign for Linn's Tomb appears and although it is a detour this historical site should be visited.

It is a highly evocative experience. On returning to the forest road it passes Derry farm to the pick up point at GR268732.

Route Summary
Maps OS Explorer 318 Landranger 76/77
This route combines a section of open hill with excellent views followed by a walk along forest roads but with the harvesting programme much of it has a pleasant open aspect.

The start of this walk is at Rowantree Toll GR353907 where the memorial to Davie Bell, the Ayrshire Highwayman, can be seen. A short walk back to the road junction to take the Crosshill road for 2K where the forest ends and a track leads north easterly then northerly to the top of Pinbreck Hill. This is the ideal place to have a snack and view Aldinna Loch one of the least visited lochs in our area as it is protected on all sides by totally uncompromising terrain.

A quick descent through the plantation soon finds the forest road that leads north easterly/ easterly past the Stinchar Falls, alongside the river and finally to the Stinchar Bridge GR396957 where the pick up point is.

Route Summary
Maps OS Explorer 320 Landranger 83
Another new walk for WalkFest 2009 providing a linear route that goes through an ever changing landscape. The start is on the Gatehouse/ Laurieston road GR609606 and follows the path easterly over the hill to Loch Whinyeon around the north end picking up a road through Glengap Forest emerging near Dow Craig Hill.

The route goes northerly with Loch Manoch to the right picking up the track to Upper Lairdmannoch and finally the pick up on the New Galloway/Ringford road at GR677611. As the route is close to the Red Kite Trail there is a good chance of seeing these rare birds of prey.

Route Summary
Maps OS Explorer 319 Landranger 77/83
This route is largely downhill and is part of the cycle route that has been established in Kirroughtree Forest in recent years. However, with care it can be shared by walkesr and cyclists.

The start is at the former Talnoltry campsite GR487716 where there is easy access and simply follows a series of paths and roads to the Visitor Centre at Kirroughtree where refreshments are available befor being returned to Newton Stewart. There is the potential to see a variety of wildlife and the area has a mining heritage.

Route Summary
Maps OS Explorer 313 Landranger 84
This route is the furthest east for Walkfest 2009 but it is a superb walk and we hope to have the local expert as one of the guides adding an extra dimension to what will be an excellent day.

The start is in Palnackie GR820569, of flounder trampling fame, and the route is a clockwise circuit of Almorness peninsula on a well recognised series of roads and paths that goes down the east side giving views towards Kippford and Rockcliffe. The Point at the south end gives elevated views across the Solway and there is a good chance to see nesting birds and other wildlife.

Turning north Auchencairn and Orchardton bays come into view with a backdrop of Screel and Bengairn and the 5K walk back to the start goes through a variety of interesting landscapes.

Transport
Registration tbc
Bus leaves Dashwood Square tbc
Return to Dashwood Square tbc