Events: Edinburgh
- Run led by Matthew Aslett
- Meet at Flotterstone Car Park at 8 am
- 27 September 2026
The journey begins at the Flotterstone Regional Park car park. From the parking area, you follow the paved road past the Flotterstone Information Point for about 400 metres. You then turn left through a gate to leave the tarmac and start the immediate, steep grass climb up the northern end of the ridge.
The Five Peaks (North to South)
- Turnhouse Hill (506 m): The first summit provides a short, sharp cardio shock to the legs. This grassy peak offers immediate views back over Midlothian and sets you up on the main spine of the Pentland Hills.
- Carnethy Hill (573 m): After a quick dip down from Turnhouse, a gravel and grass path brings you up to Carnethy Hill. The summit is distinct for its huge historical stone cairn and exceptional panoramic views.
- Scald Law (579 m): This is the highest peak in the Pentland Hills. The climb to the top is steady but exposed. A trig point marks the summit, showing off 360-degree vistas stretching to the Firth of Forth.
- East Kip (534 m): Moving south, the ridge becomes narrower and more dramatic. East Kip has a distinctively steep, conical shape, requiring a short, punchy scramble over rock and loose gravel.
- West Kip (551 m): The final peak is the sharpest and most rugged of the five. The ascent and descent are notoriously steep and can be slippery, making it a thrilling end to the ridge traverse.
The Return & Finish Point
After descending the far side of West Kip, you join the historic Cross Borders Drove Road path. Instead of continuing south, the circular route hooks a sharp right into the valley.
The trail flattens out significantly as it guides you back along the shores of two stunning bodies of water:
- Loganlea Reservoir
- Glencorse Reservoir
This final 8 km stretch follows a gentle, paved glen road running parallel to the water. It leads you directly back to the Flotterstone car park, where you can finish your day at the Flotterstone Inn or the local cafe.
