NT2007 : Ettrick Pen, east ridge

Ettrick Pen

692m Elevation
356m Prominence
Scotland Country
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NT2007 : Ettrick Pen, east ridge

Callum Black Photo source

Overview

Ettrick Pen

Ettrick Pen, standing at a modest yet impressive 663 meters, is a jewel in the crown of the Southern Uplands. Known for its Marilyn classification, this hillside beauty draws outdoor enthusiasts with its stunning vistas and invigorating walking routes.

Geology

The mountain is primarily made up of sedimentary rock, with the summit proudly displaying gritstone outcrops. This gives rise to a unique ecosystem that supports a diverse range of flora and fauna. Popping up on a geological map, it's like a fingerprint of the Earth’s history!

Routes

Two popular routes lead adventurers to the summit:

  1. Ettrick Valley Route: A delightful 8-kilometer trek through woodlands and moorlands. It’s a bit of a workout but great for the soul.
  2. Glenquicken Start: Spanning 9.5 kilometers, this route circles a picturesque loch before a solid push to the top. Perfect for a peaceful day’s hike!

Summit Features

At the top, climbers are greeted by a stone cairn and a trig point that seems to say, 'You made it!' The surrounding views are nothing short of spectacular. If you brought a picnic, it might just be the best lunch spot in the world.

Terrain

The terrain combines grassy hills with rocky patches and a few boggy spots. Waterproof boots will serve you well—unless you fancy a surprise mud bath!

Views

From the summit, gaze upon the rolling hills and the distant peaks of the Scottish Borders. If the weather’s kind, you might even spot the Cheviots far across the horizon. Spring and Autumn are the best seasons for those views, so pack your camera!

Hazards

Keep your wits about you—weather can flip without warning here. Slippery stones and muddy patches abound, especially after a rain shower, so good footwear is essential!

Nearby Summits

Check out Bodesbeck Law and Windlestraw Law for more hiking adventures. They provide a hearty challenge and equally rewarding views.

Access

Parking: The best spot to park is near the Ettrick Water Bridge, which can accommodate several vehicles. Arrive early to snag a space!
Public Transport: Public transport is limited, so consider a taxi from Selkirk if you aren't driving.
Nearest Town: Selkirk is just a stone's throw away for all your supplies and refreshment requirements.

Facilities

No facilities on the summit itself, but Selkirk has a nice selection of cafes to enjoy a post-hike treat. A quick visit to the public toilet before the trek can do wonders!

History

Ettrick Pen’s name tells a tale of its own—'Eitrig' refers to water, painting a picture of a landscape shaped by nature’s hand. The area is rich with stories and folklore surrounding the Border Reivers, creating a sense of awe and intrigue.

In conclusion, Ettrick Pen is a hiking destination that checks all the boxes: stunning views, engaging history, and routes that vary in challenge. Whether it’s a gentle ramble or a spirited ascent, it promises an unforgettable experience. So lace up those boots and take a walk on the wild side!

Explore routes near Ettrick Pen

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

Moffat Gallow Hill Woodland and Viewpoint Circuit

4 km ~2h Moderate

View route

Forest of Ae Water of Ae Riverside Trail

4.9 km ~1h 30m Moderate

View route

Hawick: Wilton Lodge Park and River Teviot Circular

3.9 km ~1h 30m Easy

View route

Cademuir Forest Pilots Trail

5 km ~2h 30m Moderate

View route

Route planning notes

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

Ettrick Valley Route

A scenic and relatively gentle ascent starting from the valley floor. The route winds through picturesque woodlands and open moorland.

8 km ~3.5 hours Moderate

Glenquicken Start

Starting from Glenquicken Farm, this route takes you around a scenic loch before the final ascent up the slopes of Ettrick Pen.

9.5 km ~4 hours Moderate
Browse more walks on the map

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

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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Graham Simm Donald

Elevation

692m

2,270 ft

Prominence

356m

Coordinates

55.3562, -3.2635

NT199076

OS Map

79

Explorer: 330

At the Summit

The summit of Ettrick Pen features a large stone cairn, a trig point, and stunning panoramic views that make it a rewarding destination.

Terrain & Geology

Mainly grassy with rocky outcrops and a few boggy sections particularly after heavy rains.

Ettrick Pen is primarily composed of sedimentary rock, with the summit showcasing distinctive gritstone outcrops. The diverse geology contributes to the variety of flora and fauna found in the region.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can see the rolling hills of the Southern Uplands, as well as the distant peaks of the Scottish Borders. On a clear day, the mighty outline of the Cheviots can also be spotted.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Ettrick' derives from the Brittonic word for a place of fascination, 'Eitrig' meaning 'water'. The 'Pen' part simply means 'hill' or 'peak'.

Historical Significance

The area is steeped in history associated with the Border Reivers and offers a glimpse into Scotland's rugged past.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Parking is available at the Ettrick Water Bridge, which can accommodate several vehicles, but spaces fill up quickly on weekends.

Public Transport

Limited public transport options; the nearest bus service is to Selkirk, approximately 15 miles away. Consider carpooling or a taxi for the last leg.

Nearby Facilities

There are no facilities at the summit, but Selkirk boasts several cafes and shops for provisions. Public toilets are available in Selkirk.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Watch out for changing weather conditions; it can turn on a dime. The terrain can be slippery when wet, so good footwear is a must.

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 Ettrick Pen?

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

Are there other walkers around Ettrick Pen?

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 Ettrick Pen search or of course create your own walk for Ettrick Pen

Can I organise a walk to Ettrick Pen?

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 Ettrick Pen.

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 Ettrick Pen?

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 Ettrick Pen 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

Ettrick Pen location map

Grid reference: NT199076

View on OpenStreetMap

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

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