This route is a great way to explore the Galloway Hills, including a dramatic ascent of Merrick, the highest point in the south west of Scotland.
Starting near Kirriereoch, Kirriemore Hill is accessed from Kirriemore road end. We then follow the U shaped valley alongside the Kirshinnoch Burn on the south side keeping close to the towering cliffs of the Black Gutter and Black Gairy. Out of the shadows of the cliffs, we climb to Little Spear and on to the summit of the Merrick (843 metres). The descent to Loch Trool is via the Rig of the Gloon to Culsharg.
