Each Thursday evening, Helensburgh Amateur Athletics Club (HAAC) organises a local area trail run. The runs can be from Helensburgh, Loch Lomond side, Balloch and the Cove penisula along with others. Each run has a dedicated and trained run lead along with a first aider. Notification for each weekly run is sent out in the regular club emails with updates appearing on the club Facebook page.
You can contact the club by searching on Facebook or use the club's web site contact form Helensburgh AAC Contact Us.
The runs usually take 60 to 90 minutes overalll and start at 18:30 at various locations. These runs are social and not races so a great chance to chat, meet new friends and discover the local trails. There are several breaks in each run to allow a full regroup, so don't worry about being too slow or too fast.
HAAC Thursday trail
Here is a selection of the Thursday trail runs. The runs might change slightly on the night based on what the run lead decides.
HAAC Thursday trail - Ben Bouie
332 m
Max:
283.4 m
9.5 Kms
One of the favourite routes amongst the members of the club. Not the easiest of runs as there is a lot of climb but the views are simply wonderful. There are several stops along the way, both up and down the hill to allow everyone to regroup. This version of the route starts at Collins Road but can start at the club house. This run takes up to 90 minutes
HAAC Thursday trail - Highland mans way
247 m
Max:
294.7 m
8.1 Kms
A well used route and takes in much of the Trident X hill race route. Lots of parking at the Hill House. The route is initially flat'ish which allows you to warm up and stretch before hitting the main climbs of the route. Lovely views up and down the Clyde and Gareloch. Takes about 75 minutes
HAAC Thursday trail - Whinny Hill
249.2 m
Max:
178.2 m
9.5 Kms
Balloch Country park main gate is the starting point for this run, with two big car parks close by. The route does start on tar inside the park but you are soon on trail on reaching the castle. A fair bit of climb to start with then more undulating and downhill for the most part. Takes about 80 minutes
HAAC Thursday trail - Gouk Hill loop
310 m
Max:
272.7 m
11.5 Kms
This run starts at the big car park across the road from the Duck Bay hotel. Although parts of this run can be tough the wonderful views it brings makes it all worthwhile. Starts off flat along the banks of Loch Lomond which makes for a good warm up before the climb. Takes about 105 minutes
