NX3390 : Slope rising to summit of Craigenreoch

Craigenreoch

565m Elevation
178m Prominence
Scotland Country
Find walking friends Explore routes

Good walks are even better shared.

NX3390 : Slope rising to summit of Craigenreoch

Trevor Littlewood Photo source

Overview

Craigenreoch: A Hidden Gem in the Southern Uplands

Craigenreoch may not be the most famous mountain, but it certainly has its charms. With an elevation of 454 meters, it proudly stands as a Marilyn in the Southern Uplands. Its summit features a modest cairn and breathtaking views that will make you forget all about your day-to-day troubles.

Geology

The geology of Craigenreoch is a delightful study in sedimentary textures. Composed mainly of sandstone and shale, the mountain provides a window into the geological past of the region. One can almost hear the stones whispering tales of ancient lakes and rivers!

Routes

There are a couple of excellent routes to choose from:

  • Craigenreoch Circular Walk: This moderate 7 km circular route starts from the nearby hamlet and showcases a blend of woodland paths and open moorland, perfect for an afternoon escape.
  • West Approach from Garpel Water: More challenging at 5 km, this route draws you closer to nature as you follow Garpel Water, with its picturesque views before tackling the mountain's slopes.

Terrain

Expect a mix of moorland, rocky outcrops, and grassy slopes. Footwear that's more than just fashion accessories is recommended!

Views

As you reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with incredible vistas of the Southern Uplands. On particularly clear days, the peaks of the Galloway Hills will greet you.

Hazards

Be on the lookout for muddy patches that could turn your hike into a comedy of errors. Also, sheep have been known to give the best side-eye—don’t take it personally!

Access

Parking is conveniently available at a lay-by on the A713, just a brisk 3 km from your hiking start point. Newton Stewart, the nearest town, has bus services and basic amenities to prepare you for your adventure.

Facilities

While there are no facilities right on the mountain, Newton Stewart's cafes and restrooms will set you up nicely post-hike.

History

The name Craigenreoch means 'rocky ridge', a fitting description for its rugged profile. Historically significant for its agricultural landscape, you can still spot sheep folds from days gone by.

So, lace up those hiking boots, pack a snack, and come explore Craigenreoch, where every bend in the trail reveals something new and delightful. Just be sure to take in the sights and not just your feet!

Explore routes near Craigenreoch

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Carrick Forest Drive: Stinchar Bridge to Loch Doon

10.7 km ~3h 30m Moderate

View route

Glentrool Water of Trool and Spout Head Trail

7.3 km ~3h Moderate

View route

Loch Trool: Full Loch and Oak Woodland Circuit

10.1 km ~4h Hard

View route

Wood of Cree Waterfalls and Scrubland Circuit

3.5 km ~2h Moderate

View route

Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

Craigenreoch Circular Walk

A popular circular route starting from the small hamlet nearby, providing a mix of woodland paths and open moorland.

7 km ~2.5 hours Moderate

West Approach from Garpel Water

This approach follows the Garpel Water through scenic stretches before ascending the slopes of Craigenreoch.

5 km ~2 hours Challenging
Browse more walks on the map

Make a day of it, together

Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.

Find walking friends Plan a walk here
Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Dodd Donald Dewey

Elevation

565m

1,854 ft

Prominence

178m

Coordinates

55.1859, -4.6165

NX335910

OS Map

76

Explorer: 317 318

At the Summit

The summit is adorned with a modest cairn and stunning panoramic views, making it a rewarding destination for hikers.

Terrain & Geology

Variable consisting of moorland grassy slopes and rocky outcrops. Suitable footwear is recommended!

Composed primarily of sedimentary rock, Craigenreoch showcases layers of sandstone and shale, offering a glimpse into the geological history of the region.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can see the rolling hills of the Southern Uplands, and on a clear day, the distant peaks of the Galloway Hills.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

Craigenreoch translates to 'rocky ridge' in Scots, aptly describing its rugged terrain.

Historical Significance

Historically, the area has seen much agricultural activity, and the remnants of old sheep folds can be seen scattered about.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Parking is available at the small lay-by on the A713 road, approximately 3 km west of the starting point for your hike.

Public Transport

Limited bus services operate from Newton Stewart, where you can catch a bus to nearby villages.

Nearby Facilities

There are no facilities directly on the mountain, but Newton Stewart has several cafes and restrooms to refresh after your hike.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Watch out for muddy patches, especially after rain. Also, be cautious of the occasional sheep, as they’ve been known to stare you down!

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Craigenreoch?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Craigenreoch through the maps

Are there other walkers around Craigenreoch?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Craigenreoch search or of course create your own walk for Craigenreoch

Can I organise a walk to Craigenreoch?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Craigenreoch.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Craigenreoch?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Craigenreoch here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible

Location

Craigenreoch location map

Grid reference: NX335910

View on OpenStreetMap

Opens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.

Nearby Hills

Merrick

843m

Cairnsmore of Carsphairn

797m

Ailsa Craig

339m

Goatfell [Goat Fell]

875m

Cir Mhor

798m
See 5 more nearby hills