Normally the route up to Ben A’an is not difficult and a short walk but today there were signs indicating that the main path was closed and the diversion was “strenuous.”  At intervals signs indicated the alternative path going up through the natural woodland, through deep mud, twisting and turning among rocks with ropes strung between trees to help in the most awkward places.  Matting across the worst bogs helped but there was still ice making these slippery.  It was a relief to reach the main path and make our way up with large stones forming steps up the gully.  The view at the top was panoramic with views towards the distant Pentlands near Edinburgh, the Campsies to the south, the Ochils to the east and the mountains to the west and north of Loch Lomond including Ben More (1174m) and Stob Binnein (1165m) all of which we had climbed in the past when we were fitter.  This view at our picnic spot looks down to Loch Katrine.  Like many others, we ignored the signs and descended along the newly constructed path and marvelled at the work of those who had made such a good path to replace the former badly eroded track.
On the way back we diverted through Aberfoyle and along beside Loch Ard with its reflections of Ben Lomond in the water. (extra)