Mourne Guide / Silent Valley to Ben Crom Dam

Silent Valley to Ben Crom Dam.

A long return walk on the reservoir road through the heart of the mountains.

Silent Valley Reservoir near the start of the Ben Crom walk.

Silent Valley Reservoir near the start of the Ben Crom walk. Photo credit & licence

Distance · Return walk
~10 km
Difficulty
Easy
Walking time
No estimate available
Total ascent
No estimate available

The walk

Follow the reservoir road from Silent Valley towards Ben Crom, then return the same way. The 10 km outing needs stamina even though it follows the road.

Underfoot

The walk follows a tarmac road. Allow for the full return distance; the route stays below the mountain summits.

Start & access

Start: Silent Valley Mountain Park, Head Road, Kilkeel, BT34 4HU.

Use the main Head Road gates. Check NI Water's admission, hours and access notices before travelling. Follow current signs and barriers.

Route map & access at NI Water — Silent Valley Trails

Take a suitable map and know how to use it. Check the landowner’s latest access notices before setting out.

Give yourself enough time

Allow for your group’s pace, terrain, stops and daylight. Leave enough time and energy for the return journey.

Sources & walk details

Checked 8 October 2026. Original grade: Level one. Distances rounded for comparison. Where time or ascent is unavailable, no estimate is supplied. A summit height is different from a walk’s total ascent. About the route information.