Pentland Hills

Leader
Gary Hoare

Summary
Setting off at 10 am from the Carlops carpark (just off the A702 in Carlops village, EH26 9NH), we will visit the Deerhope burn area, where we will examine fossils dating back to the Silurian period, and a further location around 200 m away. There will be a chance to see and/or collect a few sample fossils including trilobites, brachiopods, nautiloids, corals and crinoids. We will follow the Scottish Fossil Code at all times and collecting will only be allowed from loose rocks or scree. Goggles are highly recommended and geological hammers only will be permitted. There is a fairly strenuous walk of around 2 miles to reach the destination with 1.5 miles uphill on farm track then over marshy ground/scrub. There are two barbed wire fences to cross. Any samples collected also need to be carried back to vehicles. We will return to the car park at around 5 pm.

Guidance
We recommend wearing sturdy walking boots with good grip and foot and ankle support. Wear appropriate clothing to account for Scottish weather changes (i.e. bring waterproofs!).
A packed lunch will be required.
A comfort stop will be provided with toilet facilities and tea/coffee and snacks are available at the Esso garage on the A702 just after leaving the city by-pass (A720) both before arrival and after leaving Carlops in the evening.
There are no toilet facilities at the locality.

Travel
16 seat minibus leaving the Molema Building at 8:30 am, returning around 6:30 pm.

Difficulty
Level 4: Strenuous. Suitable for people accustomed to walking rough trails and with a good level of fitness.

Price
Members: £25; non-members: £35
Please note that the price stated also applies if you take your own transport to the locality. This is the only fair way to guarantee your place as the number of participants on trips is limited. Please let us know if you intend to take your own transport to ensure that we know who to expect at the departure point.