A free guided walk to the SSSI site at Dob's Linn with geologist John Robson - a general geological excursion to view 400 million year old Upper Ordovician and Lower Silurian strata bearing graptolites made famous by Charles Lapworth, and to the International Stratotype Section of the Ordovician-Silurian Boundary.
There may be an option to extend the outing to Loch Skeen, a scenic uphill walk on a steep path with glaciated landforms and moraines formed by successive ice sheets during the last Ice Age. Sightings of wild goats and Golden Eagles are not uncommon.
This walk is ideal for those with no specialist knowledge, as well as those interested in exploring this "classic" site
The site is in a narrow mountain gorge. No facilities are available. Nearest café/toilets are at Moffat, or the Glen Café, at St. Mary’s Loch – which may have limited opening times.
The route will cover 4km total with a 100m ascent. Optional clamber a short distance up a very steep grass slope for closer view of the Ord/Sil Boundary ‘Golden Spike’.Terrain is moderate difficulty depending on the weather, some slopes are steep and the route covers rough fell-side, stoney ground, and crossing small streams. Route is potentially slippery in wet weather – a walking stick may be an advantage.
There is an optional extension to Loch Skene : this adds a further 2.5km / 300m ascent
Meeting at National Trust for Scotland Car Park - Grey Mare’s Tail NT 186145 (Small charge unless NTS/NT member if leaving car there) then proceeding to the small mountain gorge. There may be limited roadside parking on the A708 NT 196 154
Bring packed lunch/drink.
Free, but booking essential
