WHW Day 2 (In the shadow of Conic Hill) Traditional Geocache
WHW Day 2 (In the shadow of Conic Hill)
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Day 2, and the going gets tough, at last, with a climb up Conic Hill. There is a detour via Milton of Buchanan which misses out the hill but, hey, you're doing this for the challenge, aren't you?
The WHW passes from the lowlands, across the Highland Boundary Fault and on, into the Scottish Highlands. Much of the Way follows ancient and historic routes of communication, and makes use of: The old drove roads along which highlanders herded their cattle and sheep to market in the lowlands. Military roads built by troops to help control the Jacobite Clans during the 18th century. Old coaching roads and disused railway lines from the more recent past. If you are lucky whilst walking the Way you may also see some of the wildlife of the area. The Feral Goats left behind following the clearances, the magnificent Red Deer and, away over the high tops, soaring Golden Eagles. Ensure you have adequate footwear, clothing, food, equipment, maps and walkers guides etc. Also, let someone know of your itinerary, especially if you are a solo walker.Eight “caches” have been placed to correlate with each of the identified sections of the long distance walk ……an added bonus for WHW walkers and Geocachers alike. I hope you enjoy this one, and the other caches that are (will be), placed along the route by fellow cachers.
Conic Hill is an easier climb than it's big brother up the road, with stunning views of Loch Lomond from its 358m peak which always seems to be just below the low cloud line, so you can always see something, unlike the top of the big Ben.
No dogs are allowed on this stretch of the WHW and it is also closed during the Lambing season (April 19 - May 10). However, there is a detour via Milton of Buchanan when it's closed and for those with dogs. The cache is placed just at the limit of the dog friendly zone, so it is not on the hill, but it is accessible all year round to Dog and lamb lovers.
You will find the cache about 100 metres from the West Highland Way near the gate to the open moorland. If you are coming from Balmaha, it's about 20 minutes from the carpark.
Additional Hints
(Decrypt)
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