The Duncolms and Slacks, Old Kilpatrick

The walk starts from the walkers' carpark at Old Kilpatrick and follows a tarmac road into the Kilpatrick Braes. To begin with, the road climbs gently, crossing a cattle grid and opening up splendid views of the Clyde and Erskine Bridge. Eventually the road becomes a good track and climbs more steeply, now with views of Dumbarton Rock. As the track curves to the right, Loch Humphrey comes into view. Time for a wee well-earned tea-break! Leaving Loch Humphrey the route follows good grassy paths, interrupted by boggy bits especially at the deer fence. Once clear of the fence, the going improves. Continuing along a low ridge, we bypass Little Duncolm and Middle Duncolm to Duncolm.  A fairly steep path climbs up the west flank of Duncolm before easing off for the last wee bit to the trig the highest point in the Kilpatrick Hills. The view is worth the effort! Loch Lomond, Burncrooks Reservoir and The Campsie Fells in all their splendour. After photos etc we retrace our steps down and have lunch. We will return to Loch Humphrey by our outwards route. On the day, we may consider returning over the Middle and Little Duncolms. From the loch, a short, sharp climb to the fence-line and a grass path along the Slacks escarpment to the trig point. Turning right at this point we cross several boggy hollows before the path improves and we begin our descent. Concentration is required as views are stunning but underfoot conditions tricky. Continuing down the meandering path we soon reach the road. A short walk back to the car park.