[RWD version 1 ]
A circular route over Birreencorragh and its 2 satellite tops adding in Knockaffertagh on the return. Route modelled on Simon3's track 859, but without the ludicrous detour to the west to add in Mount Eagle!
A couple of points to note about this route:
1. There is parking available deep within Coillte land at G042 027 and G035 024. However, these are inside the gate and I was concerned about being locked in, particularly on a Friday! I found a forest worker who told me they do not lock this gate at all - I'm not giving any personal guarantees here, but that's what the man said.
2. Track 859 continues west along a forest road before climbing up the southern spur of Birreencorragh South Top. I found it better to head directly north from G035 024, up a grassy ride towards sh 336, gaining a lot of height quickly and avoiding a lot of broken ground.
3. The descent shown here is similar to that shown in track 859. It works its way down a gully through the crags and scree heaps to the floor of the valley. This is not a way I would recommend. A safer route would track east from Knockaffertagh and descent the shoulder to the east of all the scree.
4. The entry to the forest, as pointed out by Simon3 in track 859, is tricky. The ground is very soft - very beautiful too with a vibrant green mystical look. However, it is passable.