Beinn Mhanach Bike & Hike (Tyndrum)
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Beinn Mhanach (923m) is most commontly approached via a long track from a farm at Auch, just off the A82 about four miles north of Tyndrum. The walk up the glen crosses under a viaduct on the 'Horseshoe Curve' on the West Highland railway line and follows the Allt Kinglass for approximately four miles to Ais-an t-Sithean, a ruined cottage that was once home to the Gaelic poet Duncan Ban MacIntyre. The track fords the stream in a number of locations and this may determine how far up the glen we may be able to cycle, but if we've had a dry spell in the lead up to the event, we can hopefully ride all the way to Ais-an t-Sithean, leaving our bikes there to complete a relatively short circuit of the Munro and its subsidiary peak Beinn a'Churin (923m).
As there is very limited parking space at Auch, the plan is to cycle all the way from Tyndrum via the WHW / A82. If we can cycle all the way to Ais-an t-Sithean, the return distance from Tyndrum will be around 16 miles on bike and approximately 5 miles on foot.
Don't have a bike? You could opt to arrive earlier and walk up the Glen to meet us at Ais-an t-Sithean (allow about an extra hour each way). Or perhaps consider hiring a bike from either Rusty Cycle Shed in Taynuilt, or Wheels Cycling Centre in Callander if your travel plans facilitate calling in at either location before and after the event.
What to bring
Bike: Preferably a mountain bike (although a hybrid might be OK if ridden with care on the rougher sections of the track).
Lock: It is planned to hide the bikes out of sight of the path when we leave them, but please bring a lock, if you have one, so that we can chain the bikes together or to a fence for extra security and don't forget the key so that we can unlock them!
Lights: We don't anticipate cycling back in the dark, but bring bike lights (or a head torch) if you have them, just in case of any unforseen delays.
Helmet: Outdoorlads policy requires that you wear a helmet when riding a bicycle on an event.
Boots: Hiking boots are arguably the most essential piece of kit when hiking just about anywhere. Walker’s should make sure that their boots are both waterproof and breathable, and provide good ankle support. Boots should also be in good condition.
Socks: Walking socks are often overshadowed by those new to hiking, with many novices failing to invest in proper socks. Good walking socks are essential in regards to keeping the feet dry, and in turn stopping the development of blisters. Sports socks and other socks not designed for walking will often become waterlogged, or damaged which will in turn blister feet.
Gators: Gators attach to the bottom of walking boots and extend to just under the knee. They provide waterproofing for the bottom half of the leg, and are essential in keeping the feet dry.
Walking Trousers: Walking trousers should be of a windproof design and made of a rip stop material, that will stand up to walking through ferns and undergrowth. They should also ideally be water resistant, or at least not gain weight, and lose their insulation properties when wet. Jeans are therefore to be avoided, as they are heavy when wet and provide no protection from the elements.
Waterproof Trousers: Waterproof trousers are essential in keeping the legs dry, as water resistant trousers will not keep out any significant rainfall. Walker’s should look for waterproof trousers that are breathable, in order to avoid being soaked with sweat.
Base Layer: A breathable base layer should be chosen in order to let sweat escape from the body. This should ideally consist of a breathable synthetic, specially designed fabric, though a cotton T-Shirt is sufficient.
Mid Layer: A Mid Layer goes on top of the base layer and should consist of a 100 weight micro fleece, or a rugby typed thick shirt. The layering system is important as it allows walkers to quickly adapt to changes in the weather as well as body temperature.
Outer Layer: The outer layer should consist of a windproof jacket or a thick fleece. This is the final layer and walkers should ensure that this layer provides ample warmth.
Waterproof Jacket: A good waterproof jacket is one of the most important pieces of kit you will require when hiking. Walkers should look for a jacket that is both waterproof and breathable in order for them to be protected from sweat. Materials such as Gore-tex are often the best choices.
Hat: As most heat is lost through the head a good hat is essential. The best hats are those of a fleece design, with wool also being acceptable.
Gloves: Gloves are essential in the colder months as walkers will require the usage of their fingers for various activities such as map reading. Windproof or better still waterproof gloves are the best choice.
Rucksack: A good Rucksack that is comfortable to wear is essential, and required to carry both food and equipment. Day sacks should have a capacity of around 30 litres with equipment being placed in water proof bags inside.
Emergency Equipment: A number of items should be taken in case problems occur whilst walking in the hills. Emergency equipment becomes of greater importance the further from civilisation walkers are. Equipment should include spare food stuffs of high energy, a survival bag, a whistle, a medical kit, a torch and something to make fire, either storm proof matches or a firelighter.
Food & Water: At least two litres of water should be brought for each day hiking, with more being taken if cooking is required. Enough food for the duration of a walk should also be taken. Food should be of the high energy variety, with hot food being able to be eaten raw if necessary.
Map & Compass: A map of the area being walked in is essential as well as a compass. The map should be in a waterproof bag or be of a waterproof design.
Mobile Phone: A mobile phone should also be brought and kept in a waterproof bag for use in emergencies.
Food & drink
Bring a packed lunch and ensure you also have plenty of water and spare food in your rucksack.
There are pubs and cafes in Tyndrum where we can stop afterwards for post walk refreshments.