This is a repeat of a walk last done in 2012. A pleasant country circular with views of Craig Rossie and the Scottish baronial Cloan House, its central section is a wooded glen largely planted with Douglas fir but with an admixture of other species and the possibility of sighting deer and red squirrels. Return is via a metalled lane overlooking Strathallan with views west towards Strathearn and north to the Grampians. Our route takes the road bridge across the A9, and passes under the Stirling-Perth railway line at the site of the old Auchterarder station. At the gates of Cloan House a signpost marks the start of the woodland track following the course of the burn which at one point it crosses via a shallow ford or, depending on conditions, a short wooden bridge further upstream. Thereafter the route steadily increases in height and emerges into more typically Ochil terrain between Tillicoultry and Glendevon, within sight of the Burnfoot windfarm. This is a useful stopping point for a snack before we rejoin the road for the return, descending continuously through farmland to our starting point. Most of the walk is on surfaced secondary roads with light traffic. The woodland track can be muddy in places, especially after heavy rain, so boots are recommended and insect repellant a useful precaution. Total ascent is c 820ft, but this is gradual and overall the going is easy-to-moderate.
For Glenruthven Mill (PH3 1DP), continue north along the main street until you reach Abbey road on the RH side, signposted Auchterarder Station. Turn into Abbey Road and follow it downhill until the crossroads where you will see the Mill Business Centre signage on the left. Turn left, and follow the road a short distance to a parking area on the left. Note that this is not an official car park and as such it is not signposted but there is usually space available.There are public toilets at the Crown Inn Wynd car park in Auchterarder, on the RH side of the main street (A824) if coming from Stirling, and several coffee/food outlets inn the vicinity.
Please let Bill know if you plan to join the walk postmaster@eileenandbill.plus.com 07810 800367.