This walk is a traverse beginning just off the A96 on the Glens of Foudland to the small village of Gartly. The walk starts at Jericho (633331) and follows a road north west, until we join a track which leads to the Hill of Foundland (603332). This hill was once a slate quarry, first opened in 1754. At its peak a century later, the quarry produced almost one million hand-split slates per year – an amazing total given the very harsh weather conditions on the hill. The Foundland slate was renowned for its midnight blue colour with a crystalline sheen and was used in many local buildings including Balmoral Castle. Due to cheaper slate being imported and a slump in the building trade Foundland Quarry closed around 1905. The walk now takes us due west down a trackless hillside, through a section of woodland to join Gartly Moor. From there it is a fairly easy going through the tracked wood to the finish in Gartly (523324)

Total Time: Approx. 5.5 hrs

Note: This walk has some sections over open moorland, often rough and boggy and requires a reasonable level of fitness. The walk would be unsuitable if there is heavy snow on the hill, in the moor or if access roads are icy, in which case a contingency walk will be offered instead.

Meet at Culter Village Hall at 8:00 am, return around 5–6 pm. Transport by bus (£12 for members, £15 for non members), refreshments afterwards (TBA). Contact Liz or Graham Neish Tel: 01224-743882. Closing date Wednesday 27th February 2013.

Walkers must wear walking boots (gaiters also recommended), carry WARM and waterproof clothing, hat and gloves and take plenty of food and liquids. Be prepared for possible wintry conditions, whatever the forecast.

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 Hillwalking and mountaineering are activities with a danger of personal injury and death. Those participating in these activities should be aware of the risks and accept the responsibility for their own actions and involvement. No responsibility can be accepted by Culter Hillwalking club committee, members, guests or co-ordinators of walks for any mishap, which may occur, during a meet. Dog owners must ensure that their dogs are on a short lead at all times.