Gartmorn Dam, Clackmannanshire
| Distance | Approximate Time | Height Gain | OS Map |
| 4 kms | 02:00 (hrs:mins) | 10 metres | Explorer 366: Stirling & Ochil Hills West |
Description
Gartmorn Dam is a real gem in the heart of Clackmannanshire - Scotland's 'wee county.' This is an easy circular walk around Scotland's oldest reservoir, dating from 1713.
Start from the car park beside the weir near the main entrance to Gartmorn Dam Country Park and follow the north shore path along an old mineral railway line which ran from Alloa Harbour to the Sherrifyards Colliery, passing the ruins en route. In spring and summer thousands of mayfly, caddis and damselflies add a splash of colour, thriving on the nutrient rich shallow water. At the end of the dam, go right at a T-junction and up the only significant hill.
On the far side follow a right-hand path to rejoin the dam's edge. Further on continue by the dam wall to the Visitor Centre which has information on the local wildlife and a children's nature quiz.
Access Info
Start from the car park at Gartmorn Dam Country Park.
Additional Info
Gartmorn Dam Country Park covers over 300 acres centred around the large dam which was constructed in the early eighteenth century by the 6th Earl of Mar. The Visitor Centre near the start of the walk has a small exhibition on the original development of the dam and the wealth of wildlife now found in and around it.
More Info
This route is available in more detail with an associated map in the Footprint Guide 'The Ochil Hills and Clackmannanshire' available from local Tourist Information Centres.
