A SIGN at the start of this walk warns that dogs that are not kept under control will be shot. The danger to lambs from overexcited pets is the reason behind this, but it is also an indication that the dealings between walker and landowner are not always as harmonious as they could be.
Sometimes the relationship between the two works well, with farmers providing signposts to show the best route for hikers or even opening tea shops to help make an arduous trek a little easier.
This is not always the case, however. Some landowners have been accused of deliberately trying to deter walkers by putting up signs warning of dangerous bulls or by placing feeding troughs near stiles so that the ground becomes an uninviting quagmire.
But don't forget about the walker who leaves gates open, allows dogs to worry sheep or discards the remnants of lunch for someone else to pick up. Litter certainly used to be a problem at the bottom of Dumyat, though the situation appears to have improved, and the route can now be enjoyed as it should be.
Right from the start, views open up over the Wallace Monument (pictured) to Stirling. Ahead and to the right, the Forth winds its way to the Kincardine Bridge, with the Ochils being unveiled ahead.
There are a number of paths leading up the hill, through rocky outcrops in an easterly direction. With the exception of a fork near the start, where you should go left, it doesn't really matter which route you take, as they all eventually lead to the top.
As you bear left to avoid a marshy area near a fence, look out for the bog cotton that is growing there in profusion at the moment – little wisps of white that look unlike any other Scottish flower.
Once over a stile, the path forks and you will find it easier to go right than tramp up steeply through heather. From here it is only a short pull up to the summit, with its trig point, beacon and memorial to the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders. The higher Ochils lie ahead and to the right, and make a good panorama to admire as you take a well-deserved breather.
Most walkers retrace their steps from the summit, but you can make a circular walk by dropping down over pathless ground to Lossburn Reservoir and then following a track that rejoins the road a mile north of the parking area. Going this way also gives a little peace and quiet if you are lucky enough to be walking on a sunny day, when the main path can be busy.
Great care must be taken as you descend, as the slopes are steep and can be extremely slippery, especially after rain. In misty conditions, it is probably best to return by the same route as you came.
Whether you go to the summit and back or take the longer option, good footwear is needed as the ground can be muddy and rocky. Also take waterproofs, warm clothing and food – on exposed hillsides, the weather can change quickly.
Distance 4.5 miles.
Height climbed 800ft.
Time 2.5 to 3 hours.
Map OS Landranger 57.
Park Turn left off the A91 about three miles north of Stirling, on to the B998. After 50 yards, turn right to go past Logie Kirk and up a very steep single-track road. At the end, turn right. After about quarter of a mile, there are parking places on the right.
In summary Go through a metal gate on the right, at the northern end of the parking area. On the other side, follow a path to a fork, where you go left.
After this, it doesn't really matter which path you take, as all lead eventually to the top of Dumyat. Once you reach a fence, it is easiest to bear left, cross a stile and then take the right-hand path on the other side.
From the top, make your way down in a northerly direction, and once at Lossburn Reservoir go left to reach a track that leads back to the road. Take a left here and walk the final mile or so back to the parking area.
Refreshments There is nothing at the start of the walk, but if you head to Stirling there is a wide range of eating places. To stay in the country, head three miles further along the road from the parking area to the highly recommended Sheriffmuir Inn (01786 823285).
While you are in the area Stirling, with its picturesque castle (01786 450 000, www.historic-scotland.gov.uk), is the obvious place to head for. Closer to hand is the Wallace Monument (01786 472140,
www.nationalwallacemonument.com).
The full article contains 802 words and appears in Scotland On Sunday newspaper.
