Highlight • Natural Monument
Summit of Slieve Donard
Hiking
5.0
(158)
Running
5.0
(1)
Mountaineering
5.0
(1)
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
December 13, 2019
Hiking
August 2, 2020
Hiking
October 26, 2020
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Summit of Slieve Donard
4.8
(128)
1,218
hikers
9.88km
04:43
810m
810m
Embark on the Glen River Trail, a moderate hike that takes you through Donard Wood and along the Glen River. This route covers 6.1 miles (9.9 km) and involves a significant elevation gain of 2655 feet (809 metres), making it a rewarding challenge. You can expect to spend around 4 hours and 42 minutes exploring the varied terrain, passing the historic Ice House and witnessing the dramatic 'Black Stairs' where a tributary cascades down dark rocks.
When planning your visit, remember that this trail is quite popular, especially during peak season, so arriving early for parking is a good idea. The path features off-road, unsurfaced sections with steep climbs and rough ground, so be sure to wear appropriate footwear for your comfort and safety. Since much of the land is privately owned, please follow 'Leave No Trace' principles to help preserve the natural beauty.
The Glen River Trail is nestled within the Mourne Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering more than just a walk; it's an immersion into a stunning landscape. As you ascend, you will be treated to expansive views of Slieve Donard and Slieve Commedagh. On a clear day from higher elevations, you might even catch panoramic glimpses stretching across Dundrum Bay to the distant mountains of Scotland, England, and the Isle of Man.
4.8
(16)
194
hikers
9.74km
03:55
800m
800m
Embark on a moderate hike up Slieve Donard, Northern Ireland's highest peak, covering 6.1 miles (9.7 km) with a significant elevation gain of 2619 feet (798 metres). This route, typically completed in about 3 hours and 55 minutes, offers a varied ascent. You begin alongside the Bloody Bridge River, where you'll find charming rock pools and small waterfalls. As you climb higher, the path leads you past an old granite quarry, transitioning to more rugged terrain. The reward for your effort is the expansive vista from the summit, providing clear views across the Mourne Mountains and even to the Isle of Man on a good day.
To start this adventure, head to the Bloody Bridge car park, which serves as the trailhead. Be prepared for the demanding nature of the path, as it includes rocky sections, areas of loose peat, and can become boggy, especially after rainfall. The weather in the Mournes is known for its sudden changes, so always pack for strong winds, rain, or even snow, particularly at higher elevations. It's wise to check the forecast and plan an early start to allow ample time for the ascent and descent.
This trail offers a unique perspective on the Mourne Wall, an impressive dry-stone wall that stretches for 22 miles across the peaks of the Mourne Mountains. You will encounter this historic structure during the latter part of your climb, serving as a constant companion and a testament to early 20th-century engineering. The route provides a deep immersion into the Mourne Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, showcasing its rugged beauty and diverse ecosystems.
4.9
(12)
127
hikers
19.4km
06:55
1,110m
1,110m
This difficult loop in the Mourne Mountains challenges you with 12.0 miles (19.4 km) of hiking and a significant 3637 feet (1108 metres) of elevation gain, taking around 6 hours and 54 minutes to complete. You will navigate steep, rocky mountain paths, including sections that require scrambling, especially on Slieve Bearnagh. The reward for your effort is spectacular 360-degree panoramic views of the High and Western Mournes, the Irish Sea, and Newcastle below, with the distinctive rocky tors of Slieve Bearnagh adding to the dramatic scenery.
To tackle this strenuous route, you need very good fitness and sure-footedness. The varied terrain includes unpaved paths, gravel, and natural ground, with some sections of built steps. Be prepared for sustained steep climbs and descents; parts of the trail, particularly descending Slieve Bearnagh and towards Hare's Gap, are very steep and demand extreme caution. Wet or icy conditions can make the already rugged terrain particularly slippery, so plan your visit for clear weather.
The trail takes you over Slieve Bearnagh, Slieve Commedagh, and Slieve Donard, encompassing three of the four highest peaks in the Mourne Mountains, with Slieve Donard being Northern Ireland's highest. You will encounter the iconic 19-mile (31 km) Mourne Wall, which hikers often follow, and sections of the historic Brandy Pad, a former smugglers' track. The Mourne Mountains are designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, highlighting the unique geological and ecological significance of this challenging and rewarding hiking destination.
Details
Informations
Elevation 910 m
Weather
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Wednesday 6 May
12°C
5°C
33 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h
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