Craigluscar Hill (4 miles)
At around 750 feet, Craigluscar Hill is situated north of Dunfermline. It is a little known peak, probably because only very minor roads pass within sight of it. Nevertheless, the views across towards the Firth of Forth are excellent and you can easily pick out the bridges and the landmarks of Dunfermline.
This walk approaches the hill from the west and begins at the entrance to Carnock Moor. Parking is available in a lay-by off the B913 near the hamlet of Cowstrandburn. There is a green Forestry Commission sign here and a gravel road leads towards the woodland. Follow the main forestry road all the way through, ignoring a narrow concrete strip leading off to the right. We are searching for a path on the left that ultimately continues past the far end of the woodland and it's easy to miss. Not to worry, the junction is located around 30 yards before the forest road terminates abruptly and it's a mere bagatelle to backtrack.
The narrow trail through the final clump of trees is muddy in places and boots should be worn for this walk. It's also necessary later on to negotiate a standard barbed-wire fence marking a field boundary. Upon clearing the woods, the route segues into a farm track with Saline Hill and Knock Hill looming on the left hand side. The smaller mound of Craigluscar soon comes into view. After a sharp swing to the right, climb the metal gate to cut across the corner of the pasture ground standing between you and the hill. You will have to hop over a barbed wire fence to exit the field but this should pose no problem for experienced walkers. Should livestock be uncomfortably close, avoid the enclosure altogether by climbing the wire further down the track.
An informal narrow trail leads around the base of the hill. It is relatively simple to climb (although steep) on the north side which is covered in heather and grass. Pick a route and make your way up. If you require a breather during the initial slog, the spongy vegetation is nice to sit on - providing it's dry! Various tracks snake around the spacious hilltop and there is an information board about the iron-age fort that once stood here. You can easily identify the Forth crossings and Dunfermline Abbey. Return by the reverse route.
