Hiking Trails to Conquer this Summer!

The Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion is located in a region where we have three designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.  It is one of the richest areas for hiking in Northern Ireland.  Whether you are a hiking expert or a beginner, we have plenty of trails suitable for all levels of ability. Whichever trail you decide to conquer will provide you with fabulous views of spectacular scenery and fill you with a sense of achievement.

The Mourne Mountains provide visitors with a stunning array of granite peaks packed into a compact area of 15 by 8 miles, offering magnificent views. Additionally, the 22-mile-long Mourne Wall, which stretches across the mountain range, offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's history.

Check out some of our trail suggestions and try them out this summer.  There is a mixture of strenuous hikes, more leisurely walks and many are suitable for all fitness levels.  You can find all these routes on Walk NI, however we’d recommend you purchase yourself an Ordnance Survey Map of The Mourne Mountains.

Slieve Bearnagh (sometimes referred to as the Devil's Bite) (739m) is one of the most distinctive mountains in the Mournes and is renowned for the granite tors on its summit and its spectacular views. You can begin this trail at Trassey Car Park, this walk is made up of a stoney pathway and it turns to grassy/boulder-filled paths again, so sturdy footwear is recommended.

Slieve Binnian (747m) Its broad summit is bookended by granite tors to the North and South. You can begin your walk from the Carrick Little Car Park. Binnian is a circular route that traverses the mountain, taking in exquisite sites including an abandoned quarrying village, and a viewpoint over the glassy Ben Crom Reservoir. 

Tackle the trails of Slieve Gullion this summer, Slieve Gullion sits at an elevation of 573m, a challenging hike which offers magnificent views over the Ring and beyond. Begin your hike from the Slieve Gullion Forest Park car park, the pathway is described as easy to spot and the surface is a mixture of steppingstones and gravel, and upon your summit you can expect to see a large Neolithic burial chamber.

Slieve Martin (485m) is part of the Southern Mournes, located within the beautiful Kilbroney Park.  Make your way up past the Cloughmore Stone and soon enough you will be on your way to the top of Slieve Martin, it has been described as a hike for anyone of all ages and fitness levels. The scenery from this point is even more impressive – a complete panoramic view of the surrounding countryside and Lough.

Pack a picnic and conquer the trail to Lough Shannagh, this trek will start at the Bann’s Road car park or Ott Car Park. Often described as a challenging trek, watch out for loose stones or uneven ground, which can be a safety hazard for visitors and experienced explorers alike. After you pass the Mourne Wall, you’ll see Lough Shannagh come into view. Enjoy your picnic on a rock beside the lake and appreciate the scenery.

Hen Mountain sits at 354m and is described as one of the less challenging climbs in the Mournes, suitable for young children interested in hiking! It provides stunning panoramic views and large rocky tors to explore at the summit. You can park up at the car park on Sandbank Rd. The paths leading to, and around, the mountains in this area offer plenty of variation for people of all fitness levels.  At the summit, explore the impressive collection of tors and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Dip into the Blue Lough this summer, begin your walk at Carrick Little car park on the Head Road, keeping Annalong Wood on your right, continue to follow the stony track where you can see the heathery slopes of Binnian stretch out on your left until you reach the clear waters of the Blue Lough perfect for a picnic or a swim (remember to look after yourself if you dare to have a dip, the lough is deep and can be dangerous).

An easier walk with a couple of moderately strenuous sections is Pierce’s Castle, begin your walk from Leitrim Lodge car park, pass Rocky Mountain and stick to the obvious trail.  Described as a walk suitable for all levels of fitness, children and adults, however, take care on the rougher and steeper sections as you make your way along, especially in wetter conditions. You can expect to see beautiful views for miles around.

Here we have complied a list of top tips for hiking safely in the Mournes.

• Always check the weather forecast and prepare for changing conditions. Plan your journey before setting off.
• Plan your route and let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.
• Bring enough food and water and do not forget to pack your map, compass and first aid kit.
• Wear suitable clothing, appropriate footwear, and bring extra clothing in case of weather changes.
• Stay on designated trails, avoid shortcuts, and off trail routes.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Pack your fully charged mobile phone.
• If part of a walking group always stay together and watch out for each other.
• If you are lost or injured stay put, do not try to navigate yourself out, wait for help to arrive.
• Finally respect the environment and leave no trace, take all your rubbish home with you, and avoid disturbing wildlife and ecosystem. 

We hope you find one of these walks useful on your journey, hiking the Mournes. Always remember If you find yourself in an emergency during your mountain journeys contact The Mourne Mountains Rescue team, this group is a brilliant volunteer organisation that provides rescue emergency services in the Mournes, operating 7 days a week 365 days a year.