Rob Roy Range Nature Reserve

This walk is partly exploratory in nature. Much of the walk will be off-trail, criss-crossing the undulating landscape exploring various aspects (gullies, spurs, creek lines, knolls, grassy woodlands etc…) of the Northern section of the Rob Roy Nature Reserve. Starting in the north, the plan is to head along foot pads and off trail south west until we join the fire trail leading to Big Monks. From Big Monks we head off trail though woodland forests to the north east before veering north to our starting point. The walk will have some steep sections and rocky/grassy slopes that may be slippery and/or unstable under foot with varying thickness of vegetation from open grasslands to moderate-thick scrub. Walking pole(s) might be useful at times and gaiters and/or long pants a must to protect legs. Hike fit: The linear distance of 9km with an adjustment for elevation gain of 500m makes this equivalent to a 14km hike. Given the nature of the terrain (surface, vegetation, steepness) and the length/elevation gain/loss the hike is likely to be moderately strenuous, take approximately 4.5hrs to complete and best suited for walkers with a good level fitness, whom are comfortable off track and in the last 3 months have hiked regularly and completed successfully at least one club hike equivalent to a grading of “M”/”M”. Nature Connection: Please note this walk will involve deliberate periods of quiet, attentive, and reflective mindful walking/sitting to foster a more immersive experience of and deeper connection with the country we will be walking in.