NT2531 : Plateau summit west of Dun Rig with view towards Broom Hill and Hundleshope Heights

Dun Rig

744m Elevation
243m Prominence
Scotland Country
Find walking friends Explore routes

Good walks are even better shared.

NT2531 : Plateau summit west of Dun Rig with view towards Broom Hill and Hundleshope Heights

Colin Park Photo source

Overview

Discovering Dun Rig

Dun Rig stands resiliently at 700 meters above sea level, making it a notable Marilyn in the Southern Uplands of Scotland. This hill offers both seasoned hikers and novices a delightful day out among the rolling hills and heather-filled valleys.

Geology

Crafted from Old Red Sandstone, Dun Rig's geological features reveal a history dating back to the Devonian period. Wander around and you might stumble across glacial striations that bring to light the Ice Age's artistic touches!

Routes

There are a couple of well-trodden paths leading to Dun Rig. The Dun Rig from Gair Hill route is popular, winding through beautiful landscapes for a delightful 6.4 km trek. Alternatively, the Dun Rig from the A708 route provides another charming 5.2 km option that's slightly shorter but equally bursting with beauty.

Summit Features

The summit is crowned with a stone cairn, a cheerful lookout point for tired hikers. It practically begs for a group photo!

Terrain

Expect a blend of rugged heather-clad slopes and distinctly rocky outcrops that keep your footing warm-heartedly challenging. Paths can be vague in places, leading you to trust your instincts!

Views

The panoramic views from Dun Rig are nothing short of breathtaking. To the north, the regal majesty of the Ettrick and Moffat Hills rises proudly. Spring and summer bring the best scenery, when the vibrancy of wildflowers competes with the lush greenery.

Hazards

As this is Scotland we're talking about, do watch out for the notorious quick changes in weather. Keep your wits and your feet about slippery stones! When in doubt, remember: it's the high ground that gets the last laugh with the weather.

Access

You can start your adventure near Gair Hill where parking is available—just be quick about it! The quaint town of Moffat nearby has ample facilities and charm, making it a perfect pit stop.

Facilities

Cafes and toilets galore await in Moffat, with a sprinkle of shops for any last-minute supplies.

History

Ever wondered what 'Dun Rig' means? It’s a nod to 'Hill Fort', suggesting its significance might ripple through the ages—a gentle reminder of the settlers who once roamed these hills.

In conclusion, Dun Rig is not just a pretty face in the Southern Uplands; it’s a delightful day out steeped in nature, history, and the promise of much Instagramming!

Happy hiking!

Explore routes near Dun Rig

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

Cademuir Forest Pilots Trail

5 km ~2h 30m Moderate

View route

Peebles to Neidpath Castle: Tweed Riverside Walk

3.9 km ~1h 30m Moderate

View route

Selkirk Ettrick Water North Riverside Circuit

2.1 km ~1h Easy

View route

Selkirk Haining Loch and Woodland Circuit

2.5 km ~1h 15m Easy

View route

Route planning notes

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

Dun Rig from Gair Hill

A scenic route that begins at Gair Hill, following a well-trodden path through undulating terrain to the summit. This route is particularly good for a leisurely hike with stunning views.

6.4 km ~2.5 hours Moderate

Dun Rig from the A708

Starting from the A708, this route leads through lush forests and opens up to magnificent views as you approach the summit. Perfect for all-weather adventurers.

5.2 km ~2 hours Moderate
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 Graham Simm Donald Historic County Top (pre-1889)

Elevation

744m

2,441 ft

Prominence

243m

Coordinates

55.5719, -3.1860

NT253315

OS Map

73

Explorer: 337

At the Summit

The summit features a prominent stone cairn, which on clear days may provide a rendezvous spot for hikers. Don't forget to take a selfie—it won't last forever!

Terrain & Geology

Heather-clad slopes with sections of rocky outcrops and pathless areas making navigation a bit of a merry dance for the uninitiated.

Dun Rig is primarily composed of Old Red Sandstone, formed during the Devonian period. The surrounding landscape features resplendent heather moorland, under which you might unearth signs of ancient glacial activity.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, hikers can enjoy splendid views of the Ettrick Hills, the Moffat Hills, and a peek into the Scottish Borders. On a clear day, one could almost swear you can see clear to the north!

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Dun Rig' translates to 'Hill Fort', giving a nod to its historical significance and the ancient peoples who may have regarded the hill with respect.

Historical Significance

With its picturesque landscapes and archaeological remnants in the surrounding area, Dun Rig carries echoes of the past as well as serving as a beloved spot for modern outdoor enthusiasts.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is a small parking area near Gair Hill on the B709. Spaces are limited, so arrive early to claim your spot.

Public Transport

The nearest bus service runs to Moffat, from where you would need to taxi or cycle to the starting point. Better check the timetable—it has a mind of its own!

Nearby Facilities

In Moffat, you can find cafes for lunch, restrooms, and even a couple of charming hotels if you fancy a weekend of hiking whilst indulging in a bit of luxury.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Be wary of sudden weather changes and keep an eye out for exposed rocky areas, especially when wet, as they can become quite slippery.

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 Dun Rig?

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

Are there other walkers around Dun Rig?

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 Dun Rig search or of course create your own walk for Dun Rig

Can I organise a walk to Dun Rig?

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 Dun Rig.

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 Dun Rig?

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 Dun Rig 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

Dun Rig location map

Grid reference: NT253315

View on OpenStreetMap

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

Nearby Hills

Broad Law

840m

Scald Law

579m

Black Mount

516m

 Arthur's Seat

Arthur's Seat

251m

 Tinto

Tinto

712m
See 5 more nearby hills