Step/Knockanroe
Overview
Knockanroe or ‘red hillock’ could be attributed to the russet colour that the bracken turns when dying off the hill in the autumn. This forest is located on the northern side of the Silvermines Mountains. The village of Silvermines, that is located at the base of the hill, is named after a former silver mining site. Lead, zinc, copper, sulphide and barites have all been mined in the area since Roman times. Active mining ceased in 1993.
The high point at Knockanroe reaches 479m or 1572 feet. The views from up here are simply outstanding on clear days – with the Shannon, Lough Derg, the low plains of the Midlands and the peak of Keeper Hill, or Slievekimalta (694m) as it is sometimes called, all being visible. The sounds from up here consist of wind in the trees, humming insects, lowing bovines and the odd tractor – bliss.
Things to do
Walk:
The Knockanroe Wood Loop (4.3 km, 1.5 hours, strenuous, purple) combines forest and open mountain. The views are simply outstanding on clear days.
A section of the Slieve Felim Way, a 30km long distance walking trail, winds its way through this forest, and overlaps with the Knockanroe Loop, as it makes its way from Murroe to Silvermines.
Don’t miss our hidden gem
The views on a fine day are tremendous.