Hare Moss and Big Wood loop from Dunhog Moss

While the Komoot tour is rated as easy, hikers should be aware that parts of the route, particularly within the Dunhog Moss Nature Reserve, feature soft, wet ground and lack maintained paths. This can make navigation challenging and requires careful footing. The path at Hare Moss Nature Reserve leading to the bird hide is generally more accessible.

The terrain varies, featuring wetland areas, particularly around Hare Moss Nature Reserve, which was originally a wet bog. You'll encounter open water, and deep drainage furrows from past forestry are still visible. Dunhog Moss Nature Reserve is an upland basin fen with soft, wet ground and no maintained paths, so expect natural, untamed conditions. The broader Scottish Borders region offers rolling hills and woodlands.

The reserves are rich in wildlife. At Hare Moss Nature Reserve, you can spot various wildfowl like tufted duck, goldeneye, pochard, mallard, and occasionally whooper swans, especially from the bird hide. Dunhog Moss Nature Reserve is known for its diversity of dragonfly and damselfly species. You might also encounter common frogs, smooth newts, rare water beetles, and butterflies such as ringlet, common blue, and meadow brown in summer.

Yes, the route takes you through Hare Moss Nature Reserve, which features an area of open water and a bird-viewing hide. You'll also pass through Dunhog Moss Nature Reserve, an important upland basin fen. The Big Wood highlight is noted as a viewpoint, offering scenic vistas of the surrounding landscape.

While specific parking details for this exact loop are not provided, access to the nature reserves typically involves parking near the entry points. Given the trail starts from Dunhog Moss, look for suitable parking options in the vicinity of the Dunhog Moss Nature Reserve. Always ensure you park responsibly and do not obstruct farm access or private property.

While dogs are generally welcome in the Scottish Borders, when hiking through nature reserves like Hare Moss and Dunhog Moss, it's crucial to keep dogs under close control, preferably on a leash. This protects sensitive wildlife, ground-nesting birds, and farm animals. Be mindful of livestock and wildlife, especially in the wetland areas.

The best time to visit depends on your interests. For birdwatching, winter is excellent at Hare Moss Nature Reserve due to the influx of wildfowl. Summer offers the chance to see diverse dragonflies, damselflies, and butterflies, as well as various plant species in bloom. Be prepared for wet conditions year-round, especially in the mosses.

As Scottish Wildlife Trust nature reserves, Hare Moss and Dunhog Moss generally do not require permits or charge entrance fees for public access. However, visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment, stick to designated paths where they exist, and follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.

Yes, this route includes sections of the Selkirk Magenta Route, covering approximately 10% of the trail.

When navigating Dunhog Moss Nature Reserve, be aware that it is an upland basin fen characterized by soft, wet ground and a lack of maintained paths. Careful navigation is essential to avoid difficult terrain and to protect the sensitive peatland. It's advisable to wear waterproof footwear and be prepared for challenging footing.

The nature reserves themselves are largely undeveloped, focusing on conservation. There are no visitor facilities like cafes or restrooms directly on the trail. For amenities such as cafes, pubs, or accommodation, you would need to visit nearby towns in Roxburghshire, such as Selkirk.