Updated: Jan 2023. The original page can be found HERE.
The track starts at an access at NS 80963 63020, SW of Blackridge Farm. There is no signpost at this end, and a sign shows “Blackridge Farm – Keep Out.
SM17 Start: Craigens Road
The route initially heads NE up a hedgerow lined path. The track itself is a 3m wide aggregate path, in average condition for almost the whole length of the path, some sections being muddy in wet weather. After 300m the farm is gained, and 30m beyond this at NS 81236 63208 there is a locked gate with a smaller slip-through at the side. This is fairly narrow, and is unsuitable for bikes, which must be lifted over the gate.
The path continues on the same line for 400m, then heads N on the E side of a strip of woodland. This section of the path has been improved slightly, and a new fence appears to be in the process of being erected on the north side of the track.
After about 500m a large metal fence lines the west side of the path, and continues to the signpost at the junction with SM18.
The route now heads NNW, passing over a large concrete bridge at NS 81556 64006.
After 200m the route heads NW, uphill to a sign at NS 81986 64329, marking the junction with SM18 (Signs shows Salsburgh 1 mile, <Craigens Road 1 ¼ miles, Blackhill 1/2 mile >). The gate which was previously here has been replaced with a fence, and two posts are driven in to the ground to allow you to step over the fence.
Crossing this, the path goes uphill for 700m in the direction of the Blackhill Transmitters, then East to a locked vehicle gate with another dodgy stile for walkers, which marks the end of the route, at NS 82695 64584.
Just beyond this on Duntilland Road is a Scotways sign showing “Public footpath to Salsburgh, 1 ½ miles).
The Airdrie Rambler 