The route begins in the village of Avonbridge. Follow Bridgend Road which leads off the main drag opposite the convenience store. A heritage trail sign shows the way. We are soon on a farm track heading towards the river. The path is mostly well defined. Some sections pass through open pasture but it's simply a case of following the water. It should be noted that there are a few steep wooden staircases to negotiate.
After a mile and a half we encounter the stunning viaduct which was formerly part of a railway running between Bathgate and Slamannan. The lines in this area were all closed by 1964 but the viaduct remains in magnificent condition. The route climbs up to pass below an end arch but unfortunately no access to the top of the structure is possible. A fearsome steel fence blocks access.
The trail continues past Wallace's Cave - in reality an archway through a large chunk of rock. Apparently the great man once hid from the enemy here, or so the story goes. The river is crossed before reaching the cave, bringing us into the county of West Lothian. Eventually we arrive at the tall stone bridge which carries the A801 above the Avon Gorge. This is a good point to turn back and retrace our steps to Avonbridge, taking in that mighty viaduct once again.
