Creetown - Balloch Wood - Garrochar Ponds - Creetown
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This easy walk from Creetown (formerly Ferrytown of Cree) takes an ascending lane to pass Kirkmabreck Church and enter Balloch Wood, then to follow the Balloch Burn, continuing up to the Garrochar Ponds by Balloch Bridge. The ponds make an ideal picnic spot and may also be reached by car from Creetown or Gatehouse of Fleet via the Corse o' Slakes Road; a small car park has been provided alongside the ponds. The area around is level and suitable for wheelchair users.
The route is part of a recent local community project initiative, in partnership with Forestry Commission Scotland and only completed in October 2004; it is yet to be mapped. The way is signposted however, the paths are good and there are occasional seats along the route. Return to Creetown is made downhill by way of a 'larch trail'.
No visit to Creetown is complete without a tour of the well-known Gem Rock Museum and its cafe, which is included on your return route. Within the route is a shorter alternative of some two miles, which omits the woodland path section up to Garrochar Ponds.
Scotland - South Scotland - Dumfries and Galloway - Woodland or Forest
Features
Birds, Butterflies, Church, Flowers, Food Shop, Good for Kids, Good for Wheelchairs, Great Views, Lake/Loch, Museum, Play Area, Pub, Public Transport, Restaurant, River, Toilets, Waterfall, Wildlife, Woodland