The Knock of Crieff

Hill: Knock of Crieff
Category: Sub2k
Height: 279m
On my way back from the mighty Tay I had about 2 hours free so I  decided to tick off a new but quick Sub 2k. My map showed a few possibilities on my route but this was the quickest.
Although it was quick it turned out to be an enjoyable short hike.
The car park is just after the horse riding set up. Lots of jodhpurs around today.
I was informed that this wood is one of the few where red and grey squirrels cohabit but I saw neither today.

Natural woodland at start

A steep pull up the marked trail through the oak trees until I saw a hefty woman standing still holding a big horse. Just as well she had some weight as she was struggling to hold this frisky horse. If it broke free it was only heading in one direction, mine. At least there are a few trees to hide behind. Warily I got to them, the woman explained it was a very young horse being trained!!
After the excitement the walk continued before more excitement as an MTB rider came down the narrow track at speed but did at least brake.

Most walkers might stop here

Then out of the natural wood with wide views now on your left. Glen Turret beyond, Ben Chonzie and Auchnafree Hill would be in view but low cloud still covers the tops. 

Monzie Castle

Still nice good into the picturesque valley with Monzie castle just in sight, surrounded by trees. 

Deforested track to the top

There has been significant deforestation around which meant I took the detour to the highest point. Walkhighlands says not to bother but that was obviously written before the trees cut down. 

Summit

Still a messy top, the small spread out stone pile might represent a cairn. Looking over to the mast on Milquhanzie hill, the site of a hill fort.

MTB trail

Beside this there is another MTB trail, not one for the inexperienced. I have noticed that lot of the forestry hills around here have specialist MTB trails, good for them.

Open views

I rejoined the main trail as a guy appeared with two dogs off the lead, one of which starts growling away at me, what's going on today?
The trail descends and winds its way around The Knock and then back into the woods heading back towards Crieff Hydro. There is an option to extend the walk around the golf course but knowing my luck with incidents today I would probably get hit by a run away golf buggy.

Ringlet

Stacks of woodland birds and butterflies to admire.

Wildlife: Jay, Chaffinch, Mistle thrush, Blue Tit, Large tit, Greenfinch, Wood pigeon, Peacock, Ringlet, Small tortoiseshell.
Time: 1.01
Ascent: 421ft
Distance: 2.67m