Sunday, 17 September 2017

Caerketton Hill

Caerketton is the hill towering over the Hillend ski slopes just off the A702 on the way out of Edinburgh. There is an old hill fort on the eastern shoulder, which suggests that the name Caerketton derives from caer, meaning a fort. There is certainly ample evidence of prehistoric settlement in the area with Castlelaw Hillfort just down the road.

We have been doing plenty of small walks over the summer, in and around Edinburgh, but this was a chance to test Leo's wee three-year-old legs, and Freyja's five-year-old ones, and see how much proper climbing they could manage.

They both coped with this walk really well and really enjoyed the achievement of reaching the summit. Some of the tracks were pretty wet and boggy in places so better walking boots might be required if we are going to persuade them to trudge up hills with us more often. Even though it is only mid-September gloves and hats were already a must and copious amounts of snacks and water also proved useful incentives!



Leo stretching those little legs!



Freyja just having a wee mid-climb jig!


We did it - Yay!


A little cairn celebration - with magnificent views over Edinburgh and beyond.


On the descent with some super friendly highland cows in the background. 


More highland coos


Our fuzzy caterpillar friend (Fox Moth caterpillar)


Caterpillar spotting :)


A wee song about fuzzy caterpillars by Freyja...



Sightings 
Three Fox Moth caterpillars
One bird of prey (Kestrel?)
Highland coos
Lots of horses and joggers
Blaeberries
approx 1 million slugs

Kit
Waterproofs
Kids hats and gloves
Trainers (but walking boots would have been better)
Snacks, cheese sandwiches and water