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Start at the public main car park inside Silent Valley Mountain Park, reached through the entrance on Head Road near Kilkeel. Follow the surfaced access road out of the car park, round its southern end and north along the eastern reservoir road. Stay on the broad road past Silent Valley Dam and the Binnian Tunnel outlet, then continue through the upper valley to the foot of Ben Crom Dam. Return along the same road and parking approach.
Allow about 2 hours 45 minutes for this roughly 10 km out-and-back, including a short rest. It offers views across Silent Valley Reservoir and up the valley between the Mourne hills. The route uses tarmac with gradual rises and descents. Watch for authorised service vehicles and the shuttle bus. Bring a waterproof layer for the open upper section and keep away from the water's edge. The steep steps to the top of Ben Crom Dam are optional and are not included in this route.
Use the park's designated car park rather than roadside spaces. NI Water currently charges £5 per car; parking is first come, first served. The gates open 9am to 6.30pm in September and October, 9am to 4pm from November to March, 9am to 6.30pm in April, and 9am to 9pm from May to August. Leave enough time to return before closing. Toilets, a visitor centre and cafe are in the lower park; check their opening times before relying on them.
The lower Nature Trail remains closed after a landslide and parts of the Heritage Trail have storm damage. This walk stays on the reservoir road and avoids those trails. Follow any newer local barriers or closure notices. Swimming, paddleboarding, barbecues and open fires are prohibited at NI Water reservoirs.
Route and visitor information checked against NI Water's Silent Valley walking-trail map, current visitor page and access notices. Check NI Water's latest park notices before travelling, particularly during weather warnings.
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A few things to know before you make plans.
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Check the participant list and check-ins, and message the organiser or other walkers to confirm where to meet and who is coming. This is especially useful when the group is small.
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