NO6987 : Kerloch Fence

Kerloch

534m Elevation
181m Prominence
Scotland Country
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NO6987 : Kerloch Fence

Colin Kinnear Photo source

Explore routes near Kerloch

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

Banchory to Milton of Crathes: Deeside Way return

9.5 km ~2h 30m Easy

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Milton of Crathes to Drumoak: Deeside Way return

11.8 km ~3h 30m Easy

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Potarch to Shooting Greens: Deeside Way return

7.9 km ~2h 45m Moderate

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Loch Kinord: Muir of Dinnet Woodland Circuit

6.4 km ~2h 30m Moderate

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Route planning notes

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

Kerloch Circular Route

Starting from the car park at the end of the lane leading from the A93, this circular route leads hikers around the base of Kerloch before ascending to the summit.

10 km ~3.5 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Dodd Highland Five

Elevation

534m

1,752 ft

Prominence

181m

Coordinates

56.9812, -2.5009

NO696878

OS Map

45

Explorer: 396

At the Summit

The summit features a cairn marking the high point, along with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including the impressive Bennachie range.

Terrain & Geology

Varied; includes rocky paths grassy sections and some boggy areas particularly after heavy rainfall.

Kerloch is primarily composed of granite, which gives it a rugged appearance compared to the surrounding softer schists and slates. The glacial history of the region is evident in the U-shaped valleys that blend seamlessly into the mountain landscape.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can enjoy sweeping views of the Deeside valley, the distant Cairngorms, and the rolling hills of Aberdeenshire.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Kerloch' is believed to derive from the Gaelic 'Cnoc' meaning 'hill' or 'mound', indicating its prominence in the landscape.

Historical Significance

Kerloch is often frequented by walkers and nature enthusiasts, contributing to local tourism and recreational activities. It holds cultural value in local lore and tradition.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is a small car park at the end of a minor road off the A93, near the start of the Kerloch Circular Route.

Public Transport

Buses run from Aberdeen to Banchory, with local services connecting to the A93. However, it's advisable to check timetables in advance.

Nearby Facilities

While there are no facilities directly on Kerloch, the nearby village of Aboyne offers cafes, shops, and toilet facilities.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Potential for sudden weather changes, slippery paths in wet conditions, and the presence of wildlife. Hikers should remain vigilant and respect the local fauna.

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 Kerloch?

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

Are there other walkers around Kerloch?

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 Kerloch search or of course create your own walk for Kerloch

Can I organise a walk to Kerloch?

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 Kerloch.

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 Kerloch?

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 Kerloch 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

Kerloch location map

Grid reference: NO696878

View on OpenStreetMap

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

Nearby Hills

Bennachie - Oxen Craig

529m

Driesh

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Lochnagar - Cac Carn Beag

1,156m

 Bass Rock

Bass Rock

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Ben Avon - Leabaidh an Daimh Bhuidhe

1,172m
See 5 more nearby hills