Peering down like a living map. That’s how it feels to stand in the Kilpatrick Hills above Glasgow. These hills offer a unique perspective. Glasgow lacks a natural high point like Edinburgh’s Arthur’s Seat. The Kilpatrick Hills fill that void perfectly.
The Kilpatrick Hills stretch from Dumbarton to Strathblane. Strathblane separates them from the Campsie Fells. The Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park lies to the north. Balloch, Dumbarton, and Clydebank fringe the hills. Most of the range sits within West Dunbartonshire. It also extends into East Dunbartonshire and Stirling.
These hills offer stunning views and places of interest. Doughnot Hill and The Whangie are well-known spots. Several reservoirs dot the landscape. The Kilpatrick Hills are volcanic in origin. Glaciation has modified them over time.
The Whangie is a geological wonder. It’s a slice of hillside separated from the main slope. This creates a narrow chasm. It is up to 10 meters high and about 100 meters long. Visitors can walk through it. Glacial plucking was once thought to have caused it. Recent research suggests a translational landslide. An ice age glacier undermined the crag. This opened cracks and formed the chasm.
The Whangie’s name origin is unclear. It might come from old Scots for “slice”. Local folklore says the devil created it with a flick of his tail.
Several archaeological sites dot the south-facing slopes. The chambered cairn at Carnhowit sits near Cochno Loch. It is at 275 meters high. Three other cairns may be from the Bronze Age. One is known as Maidens Paps. It’s near Jaw Reservoir and Cochno Loch. Another cairn is on Cochno Hill. The third is at Wester Duntiglennan. Cists have been found at Cochno and Duntocher. Cup and ring marks appear on outcrops. These are mostly around Auchnacraig and Whitehill. Other groups are further west toward Bowling.
The hills are named after Old Kilpatrick village. Duncolm is the highest point at 401 meters. It’s also the only Marilyn in the Kilpatricks.
The Kilpatrick Hills are ideal for outdoor recreation. Hill walking and bike riding are popular. Peaceful loch-side picnics offer relaxation. Enjoy spectacular views over Glasgow and the River Clyde. Climb higher for views of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs.
The winding track to Loch Humphrey suits walking or biking. Watch for waterfalls, waterbirds and wonderful views. Red deer, otters, and ospreys live here. An extensive path network exists for walkers and bikers.
The “Bankie’s Trek” crosses the hills’ southeast corner. When visiting please follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. The Kilpatrick Hills Study explored the area’s social and economic potential.
Escaping the city is easy here. The Kilpatrick Hills are just 14.5 km from Glasgow’s center. The train station is very handy for accessing the hills. Get off at Kilpatrick Station. Walk uphill past the Bowling Club. The route up the farm track is signposted to Loch Humphrey.
Extensive new planting is going on at a fast pace. Inland, large areas have been fenced off. Access roads into them have been created. The Woodland Trust now owns major land in the area.
So, breathe deeply. Take in the panoramic views. The Kilpatrick Hills offer a welcome escape. They are an ideal place to experience the beauty of Scotland.