Merrick Group Walks | Join a Walk
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Elevation
843m
2,766 ft
Prominence
705m
Coordinates
55.1393, -4.4684
NX427855
OS Map
77
Explorer: 318
The summit is marked by a large stone cairn and offers a trig point for geocachers and summit baggers alike.
Merrick is primarily composed of granite, which provides a rugged and rocky terrain typical of the Southern Uplands. The summit features glacial landforms, showing the influences of historical ice ages.
From the summit, one can see the full sweep of the Galloway Forest Park, the Solway Firth and on clear days, the Lake District and the mountains of Cumbria.
The name 'Merrick' is derived from the Gaelic term for 'the tree' - 'Meara' - though its exact origins have been debated.
Merrick is significant within Scottish hillwalking culture, often regarded as a rite of passage for hikers looking to 'bag' a Corbett.
This classic route starts at Loch Trool and takes the well-defined path through the forest before climbing up the gentle slopes to Benyellary. From there, the Merrick’s summit is reached via the Neive of the Spit, offering expansive views of the Galloway Hills and beyond. The route is straightforward but rewarding, suitable for experienced walkers and beginners with good fitness.
A slightly longer and more challenging circular route starting from Glen Trool. This path ascends Merrick via Benyellary and the Neive of the Spit, before descending along the Rig of Loch Enoch. Walkers will pass beautiful Loch Enoch and enjoy a variety of terrains, from forest tracks to open moorland.
This less-traveled route approaches Merrick from the north via Loch Valley and Loch Neldricken. It involves some pathless sections and boggy terrain, making it ideal for those seeking a quieter and more adventurous ascent. The route provides stunning views of the lochs and surrounding Galloway Hills.
Starting and finishing at Bruce’s Stone, this extended loop takes you up Merrick while incorporating other highlights of the Galloway Forest Park, such as Loch Valley and the Rig of the Jarkness. This route is a full-day outing but rewards walkers with some of the best scenery in southern Scotland.
A shortened version of the tourist route, this walk starts at a higher elevation near Loch Trool’s car park and focuses on reaching the summit of Merrick via Benyellary. It’s a great option for families or those with limited time, while still offering a rewarding summit experience.
Glen Trool car park (NX 427 855) has ample space and is well-marked for visitor access.
Buses to the nearby village of New Galloway are available, though further travel to the car park might require a taxi.
There are no facilities directly on the mountain, but nearby New Galloway offers local cafes, shops, and toilets.
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Some common questions about the hills answered
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Merrick through the maps
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 Merrick search or of course create your own walk for Merrick
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 Merrick.
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.
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 Merrick here
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Grid Ref: NX427855
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