NJ4749 : Summit, Balloch Hill

Meikle Balloch Hill

366m Elevation
193m Prominence
Scotland Country
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NJ4749 : Summit, Balloch Hill

Richard Webb Photo source

Explore routes near Meikle Balloch Hill

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

Craigellachie to Aberlour: Speyside Railway Path Return

7.7 km ~2h 15m Easy

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Aberlour to Carron Bridge: Speyside Way riverside return

9.9 km ~3h Easy

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Culbin Forest: Hill 99, Gravel Pit Ponds and Dragonfly Pool

5.3 km ~2h 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.

Balloch Castle Park Trail

A scenic route starting from Balloch Castle Park that meanders alongside the loch before ascending the hill. This path is particularly popular among families and those looking for a leisurely hike.

5 km ~2.5 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn 300-399m hill

Elevation

366m

1,201 ft

Prominence

193m

Coordinates

57.5327, -2.8850

NJ471495

OS Map

28 29

Explorer: 425S

At the Summit

The summit features a prominent cairn and a trig point, often adorned with a few visitors' hats and a sense of accomplishment. It’s a fantastic spot for a celebratory snack or just to catch your breath.

Terrain & Geology

Mostly grassy with some rocky areas perfect for a bit of light scrambling without endangering your lunch.

Primarily granitic rock with some evidence of glacial activity shaping the landscape. The rocky outcrops provide a fascinating sight for geology enthusiasts and a sturdy footpath for those enjoying the ascent.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, one can spot the sparkling waters of Loch Lomond, distant peaks of the Highlands, and the expansive rolling hills of the Grampian range.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Meikle Balloch' translates from Scots Gaelic, meaning 'Big Hill', which quite frankly is a fitting name, considering its stature over the surrounding landscape.

Historical Significance

Meikle Balloch Hill has been a favoured spot for hikers and geologists alike, providing historical context with its ancient geological features.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Parking is available at Balloch Castle Park, which is well-signposted and offers ample spaces, perfect for those weekend warriors.

Public Transport

Accessible via public transport from Glasgow. The Balloch train station is a short walk from the park, making it a breeze for car-free hikers.

Nearby Facilities

Cafés and toilets can be found in Balloch, including those at the visitor centre, ensuring a good cup of coffee is never far away.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • While generally safe, be wary of sudden changes in weather and watch for sheep who think they're the bosses of the hills!

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 Meikle Balloch Hill?

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

Are there other walkers around Meikle Balloch Hill?

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 Meikle Balloch Hill search or of course create your own walk for Meikle Balloch Hill

Can I organise a walk to Meikle Balloch Hill?

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 Meikle Balloch Hill.

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 Meikle Balloch Hill?

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 Meikle Balloch Hill 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

Meikle Balloch Hill location map

Grid reference: NJ471495

View on OpenStreetMap

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

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