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The Slacks from above Hardgate

Start/Finish

Near the start of the track to Greenside Reservoir above Hardgate. From the north side of the Erskine Bridge, follow the A82 back towards Glasgow. After about a mile, fork off left for Duntocher and Hardgate. After just under another mile and about 100 m before a roundabout go left, just before a pub and follow a road up hill until it goes right with the track to the reservoir going ahead then left. The old waterworks can be seen up this track and is a good indicator. Park in this vicinity. There are a few side streets available down the hill.

Distance/Time

7 km     About 2 – 3 hours

Peaks

The Slacks, 365 m, NS 467 752.     OS sheet 64.

Introduction

The Kilpatrick Hills lie in the area north of Dumbarton, Duntocher and Bearsden on the north side of Glasgow. They are relatively low hills with the highest being just over 400 m. Much of the upland moorland contains reservoirs.There are plenty of walks in this area.This is a low walk which was attempted after heavy over night snowfall. There is a track and path all the way and the route is suitable, without difficulty, even after heavy snow. In clear weather, there are good views of similar hills and to higher hills in the distance as well as to Glasgow. In thick weather, navigation is easy except in near whiteout conditions.

Route

(1) Walk up the track to Greenside Reservoir, soon passing the old waterworks and its water tower. Continue past the few houses. Later on the track forks. Take the left fork which follows the Loch Humphrey Burn and the line of telegraph poles. This leads to Greensides Reservoir. Cross the dam easily then walk up an obvious path on to a crest heading roughly W. There is a fence about 50 m to the left of this crest. Continue easily and soon reach the trig point which marks the summit of The Slacks, 365 m.

(2) Retrace the ascent route.

Notes

(a) This walk took place on 29^th January, 2015.