This is a circular walk, starting and finishing at Birse Church (GR 554973). The walk takes us southwards, through the forest at Balfour and past Brown Hill to the forest gate (GR 539942). We climb to Carnferg at 525m (GR 522933). There is a memorial cairn to the laird of Birse Castle, Joseph Robert Heaven (Oct 1911), and a stone circle built around the triangulation point; this is a convenient place to shelter, have either an early lunch, or coffee and Xmas cake, and enjoy the views over the Dee valley. From Carnferg, it is a steady descent to the Fungle Road (GR 514926), and the northwards to Newmill (GR 541959) and on to Birse Church. Total Time with stops: about 5 hrs. (Please bring crampons).

Walkers must wear walking boots, carry WARM and waterproof clothing, hat and gloves and take plenty of food and liquids. THESE ARE ESSENTIAL. Be prepared for possible wintry conditions on the top, whatever the forecast. (Carnferg is relatively snow free at present (Tues 4th Jan) but there is snow and ice on the lower paths, especially on the return leg from the Fungle Road junction (GR514926). Please bring crampons or walk through the heather). The private road from Newmill (GR 541959) to the Birse Road is particularly icy).

Meet at Culter Village Hall at 8.30am. Return 4 pm

Transport by cars. (Drivers wanted)

Contact Barry Hood Tel: 01224-732558.

Closing date 7th January, 2011.

Culter hillwalking club has no members who are qualified leaders or instructors. Therefore anyone volunteering to assist the club on a meet cannot be held responsible for other members' welfare. Members must be aware they are solely responsible for themselves at all times