When I set off for Callander this morning, I had a mind to climb Ben Ledi. At around 2,875 feet high, although not a Munro, it has the distinction of being the highest hill in the Trossachs. The views from the top are therefore pretty much guaranteed to be worth the effort of climbing it.
Having just recovered from the flu, though, upon reaching the start I found that neither the spirit nor the legs were feeling too enthusiastic and were soon persuading me to abandon the notion and to break myself in again with something a little less strenuous. I decided to pay heed and instead head for a walk in the Stank Glen. It starts from the same point as that of the most popular route for Ben Ledi.
From the wee car park beside the bridge over the Garbh Uisge, just south of Loch Lubnaig, I set off north along the riverside. The route, which follows red way-markers, is about six miles long and climbs to the head of the Stank Glen all the while beneath the high ridge and shoulder of Ben Ledi. This is a great walk with plenty stunning scenery to soak up along the
way.
The occasional short scramble down to the burn side was well rewarding revealing hidden rapids, tumbling waterfalls and clear, deep pools. Nothing, of course, to rival the 100-feet-or-so-high Stank Falls we pass while climbing through the lower woods. Fortunately, my camera was at the ready when a red squirrel scurried past and scooted up a tree to the safety of the high branches.
At the head of the glen we meet another track for Ben Ledi. This track makes for a good circular route for anyone tackling the Ben. Looking at the high slopes rising steeply all the way to the skyline, I must admit I was quite glad I’d been persuaded to leave it for another day.
