The Ochils range is cleaved by several glens in the lower reaches. Silver Glen is actually the site of the richest silver deposit ever found in the UK and the mines were worked in the 1700s. On the eastern edge of Alva, a single-track road leads into a Woodland Park. This area was formerly occupied by Alva House - a mansion with extensive grounds. Like many others, the huge house fell into disrepair between the wars and it is now completely demolished, although the icehouse was recently restored and can be visited on Clackmannanshire Doors Open days.
From the car-park, a path leads towards Silver Glen. It is clearly signposted and there is also a map showing the various walking routes in the area. Height is rapidly gained and the route has a good surface and is lined with trees. A footbridge takes us over the burn which tumbles down the glen. A viewpoint is close by and an old mine entrance is clearly visible by the water.
If you so desire, you can push on through the gate to the open hillside and work your way towards Alva Glen which lies just half a mile distant. Simply follow the grassy path. The two glens could easily be combined into a single walk.
