Easy hikes and walks around Dungloe Lough
4.8
(22)
195
hikers
12
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Dungloe Lough offer a diverse landscape for outdoor exploration. The region is characterized by its freshwater lough, the Dungloe River, and surrounding low-lying hills and coastal areas. Hikers can expect a mix of lakeside paths, river walks, and routes that extend towards the coast, providing varied terrain. The area features gentle elevation changes, making it suitable for accessible walks.
Best easy hiking trails around Dungloe Lough
- The most popular easy hiking route is Fairy Houses in…
Last updated: June 30, 2026
16
hikers
2.82km
00:43
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(4)
53
hikers
3.76km
00:58
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.4
(5)
33
hikers
6.82km
01:45
30m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
10
hikers
4.97km
01:26
130m
130m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
18
hikers
3.57km
00:59
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Maghery Beach is a long, quiet beach on the west coast of Donegal, enclosed between low dunes and the open Atlantic Ocean. From here you look out over the rocky islands and the rugged coastline towards Crohy Head. The beach feels wide and empty, with only the sound of the waves and the wind sweeping over the dunes.
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Crohy Head Sea Arch, locally also known as The Breeches, is a striking coastal formation on the rugged cliffs southwest of Dungloe. The arch seen from the cliff is actually the Bristi Sea Stack, one of several natural arches carved out here by Atlantic erosion. The silhouette — a narrow, tall rock with a hollowed-out passage — forms one of Donegal's most recognizable coastal sights. The surroundings consist of steep grassy slopes, dark rocks, and open views towards Maghery and Arranmore.
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Located on the circular path of the old railway line. Beautiful view, especially at low tide.
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Starting point of the ferry to Aranmore Island. Nice little cute harbor.
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Wintry and open to the elements, but dramatic all the same.
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Starting point for trip over to Arranmore Island, or for picking up The Old Railway Track trail.
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Also known as 'The Breeches', Crohy Head Sea Arch is actually three arches. The one that is visible from the clifftop and most photographed is Bristi Sea Stack. It is a truly incredible sight and one of Donegal's best coastal destinations.
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A quiet road passes right along the rocky foreshore, making rockpooling a tempting distraction when the tide is out. You can see Rutland Island across the bay.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available around Dungloe Lough?
There are 8 easy hiking routes available around Dungloe Lough. These trails offer diverse landscapes, ranging from gentle lakeside paths to river walks and routes extending towards the coast.
Are there any family-friendly walks with unique features around Dungloe Lough?
Yes, the Fairy Houses in the Forest loop from Dungloe is a popular choice for families. This 2.8 km trail features whimsical "fairy houses" and a unique art-installation-like bridge, making it an enchanting experience for all ages.
What kind of natural features or landmarks can I expect to see on easy hikes?
Easy trails around Dungloe Lough offer a variety of sights. You can enjoy views of the freshwater lough, the Dungloe River, and distant highlands. The Dungloe River Walk & Cope Mountain, for instance, provides views of the low-lying Long Lake. Coastal routes like Maghery Beach – Crohy Head Sea Arch loop from Maghery offer stunning coastal scenery and the impressive Crohy Head Sea Arch.
Are there any easy circular walks around Dungloe Lough?
Yes, many of the easy trails are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. The Fairy Houses in the Forest loop from Dungloe is a great example, offering a pleasant 2.8 km loop around the lough area.
What is the typical length and duration of easy hikes in this area?
Easy hikes around Dungloe Lough vary in length, generally ranging from under 3 km to about 7 km. For example, the Fairy Houses in the Forest loop from Dungloe is 2.8 km and takes about 45 minutes, while The Kinballycrowie Loop from Burtonport is 6.8 km and typically takes around 1 hour 45 minutes.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Dungloe Lough?
The trails in Dungloe Lough are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, from tranquil lakeside paths and river walks to scenic coastal views, and the well-maintained nature of the routes.
Can I find easy walks that include coastal views?
Absolutely. The region offers several easy routes that extend towards the coast, providing beautiful sea views. The Kinballycrowie Loop from Burtonport and the Maghery Beach loop from Maghery are excellent options for experiencing coastal scenery.
Is there parking available near the easy hiking trails?
Yes, parking is generally available near the starting points of many popular trails. For instance, routes originating from Dungloe town or Maghery Beach typically have accessible parking facilities.
What is the best time of year to visit Dungloe Lough for easy hiking?
The spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant weather for hiking around Dungloe Lough, with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures. However, the region's natural beauty can be enjoyed year-round, with each season offering a unique perspective on the landscape.
Are there opportunities for wild swimming near the easy hiking routes?
While the Dungloe Lough itself is part of the Rosses Fishery, the region's coastal areas, such as Maghery Beach and Dooey Beach, are excellent for walks and offer opportunities for water sports, including swimming, especially during warmer months.
Are there any other outdoor activities to combine with easy hiking in the area?
Beyond hiking, Dungloe Lough and its surroundings support various outdoor activities. You can enjoy kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, rock climbing, and fishing in the numerous lakes and along the coast, making it a versatile destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the easy hiking trails?
The easy hiking trails around Dungloe Lough feature a mix of terrain, including lakeside paths, river walks, and routes that extend towards coastal areas. You can expect gentle elevation changes, making them suitable for accessible walks across varied landscapes.
Most popular routes around Dungloe Lough
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