 |
 Scout Expedition Base - 24th October 2009 |
| Five Scouts, four Explorer Scouts and two leaders from 13th Fife used the Colin Burt Reserve as a base for a hike in Glen Dochart on Saturday 24th & Sunday 25th October 2009. |
| Following arrival mid-morning, we set of through the reserve`s woodland and out the rear gateway onto the A85 that we walked alongside for approx. one kilometre until we turned off and over the River Dochart, which we then followed back towards Killin. It was a very wet day and we often took sanctuary under the large Oak tree canopies along the way allowing us to admire the beautiful scenery and varied wildlife, which included Swans, Herrons and Roe Deer. The route also afforded us excellent views of The Colin Burt Reserve. |
| We stopped at Killin for lunch in the shadows of The Falls of Dochart before moving on to the Rob Roy Way partially situated on an old abandoned railway. Part of the route has been adopted by the children of Killin Primary School and along the way, we found interpretation leaflets that explained more about the flora and fauna and wildlife that we may see along the walk. The route crossed over the A85 near Lix Toll and continued along the South side of the glen. We dropped down from Glen Ogle Estate towards the reserve alongside the Old Flax Mill restaurant and whilst the leaders may have been excused for the temptation to go in, we knew we had to get the tents up before darkness set in and have dinner. |
| After dinner, it was obvious that the efforts of the day had kicked in as all were happy to take the opportunity of an early night, which was probably just as well as the heavy rain continued throughout the night resulting in everybody evacuating the tents and seeking refuge in the reserve`s bird hide. Daylight confirmed our fears that River Dochart had burst it`s banks and flooded the tents! We gathered our belongings and set off for home but most definately intend to return to do further hikes in this beautiful area albeit hopefully on a dry weekend! |