Forest Walks Dumfries and Galloway

 Mabie Forest 

There is something for everyone here: open area for playing, picnicking, and barbecuing, several routes with breathtaking viewpoints, and abundant possibilities for animal watching.

Mabie is also one of the world-class 7stanes mountain biking centres and welcomes riders of all skill levels, from beginners to experts. 7Stanes Information 

There is many routes to take, but for the best one is the yellow route 'The Nith View'. This walk is 4 1/2 miles (trust me it doesn't feel like that once your up the big hill) it normally takes up about 2 hours that's dragging the kids along and the 2 dogs while having a few pit stops of a drink. 

This track climbs through the woods to a flat forest road that circles Larch Hill. From this high view point, there are ever-changing views of Mabie Forest depending what time of the year you walk this route, you will see the Nith valley and the Solway coastline. On a clear day, it is possible to see England's Lake District. On the route,  you will see the Goldielea Viaduct, which once carried trains between Dumfries and Stranraer, across the valley.

If you would like more information on Mabie Forest's walks have a look at the forestry website Mabie Information  

The Hills 

If you are looking for a quick walk The Hills this is only 1 mile, can let the dogs off for them to get a good quick run. 

START at the parking area, go over the stile or around it, and then follow the blue way-marking posts down the woodland road. Turn left and follow the cutting at the junction with the former railway line. The trail separates off the railroad and proceeds in the direction of a burn, passing through an intriguing area of woods. The trail turns upward before joining the forest road, where you can enjoy the valley's views of Tower Wood and the Goldielea Viaduct. 

To finish the circuit, turn right as you enter the wooded road. At this point, you have the option of turning left to gain some elevation and views back towards Dumfries, but doing so would require you to go back the way you came and continue down the woodland road.

If you would like to read more about Dumfries and Galloways Walks please click on the link below to my other posts https://dumfriesandgallowayplacestowalk.blogspot.com/?m=1