NN5352 : Summit of Cross Craigs

Cross Craigs

747m Elevation
132m Prominence
Scotland Country

Good walks are even better shared.

NN5352 : Summit of Cross Craigs

William Starkey Photo source

Explore routes near Cross Craigs

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

Route planning notes

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

Clyde Muirshiel Loop

A picturesque circuit starting from the visitor centre, wrapping around the park before ascending towards Cross Craigs.

8.5 km ~3.5 hours Moderate

Balmaha to Cross Craigs

A more challenging route that includes scenic views of Loch Lomond, giving a taste of the Scottish wilderness.

14 km ~5 hours Challenging
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Hump Simm

Elevation

747m

2,451 ft

Prominence

132m

Coordinates

56.6402, -4.3858

NN537523

OS Map

42 51

Explorer: 385E

At the Summit

The summit features a sizable cairn, offering an excellent vantage point for hikers to take in the stunning scenery.

Terrain & Geology

A mix of rocky paths and grassy slopes with occasional boggy sections that may test your waterproof boots.

The geology of Cross Craigs predominantly features volcanic rock formations, including basalt and andesite. These ancient volcanic activities have contributed to the rugged landscape that defines the area.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can gaze over the expansive views of Lochwinnoch, as well as the rolling hills of Ayrshire in the distance.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Cross Craigs' likely refers to the craggy outcrops that are characteristic of the area, with 'craig' being a Scots word for a rocky outcrop.

Historical Significance

The area is steeped in historical significance, with evidence of ancient settlements and a rich cultural heritage related to the indigenous wildlife and people.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is a car park at the Clyde Muirshiel Visitor Centre, which is open all year round and is equipped with facilities.

Public Transport

Regular bus services run from Glasgow to the nearby town of Houston, followed by a short taxi ride to the park.

Nearby Facilities

The Clyde Muirshiel Visitor Centre offers toilets, picnic areas, and a café with a delightful selection of snacks.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • The terrain can be slippery after rain, and visibility can diminish quickly in foggy or rainy conditions. Watch out for midge swarms in summer!

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 Cross Craigs?

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

Are there other walkers around Cross Craigs?

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 Cross Craigs search or of course create your own walk for Cross Craigs

Can I organise a walk to Cross Craigs?

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 Cross Craigs.

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 Cross Craigs?

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 Cross Craigs 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

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: NN537523

View on OpenStreetMap

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