Overview

Burncrooks reservoir is a popular location for runners and cyclists. This is a 10K loop which can be done either clockwise or anti-clockwise.

Parking

There is plenty of car parking at Edenmill farm shop (https://edenmill.co.uk/). There used to be parking closer to the reservoir but the road to it is now blocked by a gate. The road is private but I’ve seen people move the gate and drive up but that seems a bit cheeky so I don’t recommend it.

Facilities

There are toilets in Edenmill farm shop but access may be restricted depending on current Covid regulations.

Nearest cafe

I’ve never been impressed by Edenmill cafe on my visits. The service and food was not good BUT that was last year (2019) so hopefully it is much better now.

Run Surface

30% concrete. 70% fire track.

Dog Friendly

Yes – no sheep or animals spotted on route but it can be busy with people and other dogs.

Elevation

Route

Click on the link to see an interactive map and to download GPX file.

More Info

In the early 1900’s Dumbarton had ran out of water sources in the Kilpatrick Hills. So it was decided to build one slightly further afield. Burncrooks Reservoir was constructed in 1914. Until that point there was only a minor river there.

Dumbarton’s gain was also a bonus for trail runners. The reservoir makes for a great looped run. You can’t get lost. As long as you have the reservoir to one side of you, you will always get back to the start of the loop.

Park at Edenmill. Run out of the car park towards the depot owned by the gardening company Route1. Head along the main road and then turn to your left up the road marked private.

Stay on this road. It is a steady climb. You come back this way so at least you finish with a downhill run.

Go through the gate next to the Scottish water plant. Keep heading up the hill.

Eventually you will come to a fork in the road. This is the start of the loop. I prefer to go right but either way is fine. If you do go left look out for the right turn that will take you to the reservoir.

If you go right follow the path until you come to the dam. There’s a stile to jump the fence here. Cross the boggy ground for 50m to join a path. Follow the path all round the reservoir.