Sailfoot Law, Capel Fell and Broken Back Hill
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Shortwoodend, near Moffat – Sailfoot Law – Capel Fell – Broken Back Hill – Shortwoodend
This moderate hill walk ascends Sailfoot Law, then scales the 2,223ft Capel Fell, a Donald in the Ettrick Hills range. There are extensive views into Moffat Dale and across to Saddle Yoke and other hills beyond. Return is made via Broken Back Hill. This is a very scenic walk and not unduly taxing; the initial ascent is long but reasonably gentle.
This route was one of sixteen guided walks offered by the Moffat Walking Festival in October 2003. I tackled the walk as one of a group of eighteen, led by two local guides. Ascending Capel Fell in fitful sunshine, our party complacently watched some rough weather gathering over the hills to the north... Unfortunately, it suddenly switched to engulf us and though we were able to don our cagoules just in time, a fierce hailstorm meant that there were absolutely no views from the summit. The storm relented after a short while, but circled and caught us again later in the walk. Meanwhile our very capable guides had decided that we needed to adjust the line of our descent from Capel Fell, owing to the suddenly treacherous conditions. Our party completed its walk in good spirits, 'bloodied but unbowed'. This experience is illustrative of the need always to be prepared for quickly deteriorating weather when walking in the hills!
Information for Dog Owners: do keep dogs on the leash - this is sheep country.
For local weather forecasts and other relevant information and services, go to www.gallowaymrt.org.uk for Galloway Mountain Rescue's excellent website.
Scotland - South Scotland - Dumfries and Galloway - Moffat Hills
Features
Birds, Butterflies, Flowers, Great Views, Hills or Fells, Moor, Mountains, River, Wildlife, Woodland