Bloody Bridge, Slieve Donard & Hare's Gap via The Mourne Wall — Mourne

Embark on a challenging 10.7-mile (17.2 km) hike that takes you from Bloody Bridge, along a rocky river path, through an old quarry, and up to the summit of Slieve Donard. This difficult route, typically taking 6 hours and 20 minutes, involves a significant 3634 feet (1108 metres) of elevation gain. You will experience varied terrain, from marshy sections requiring waterproof footwear to steep climbs and descents, especially as you approach Northern Ireland's highest peak. On a clear day, the panorama from Slieve Donard is superb, extending to the Isle of Man and Scotland. The trail also guides you through Hare's Gap, a dramatic mountain pass offering unique views of the surrounding landscape. You will follow sections of the historic Mourne Wall, which weaves naturally through the mountains. This journey promises spectacular scenery and a deep immersion in the Mourne Mountains. If you are looking for a strenuous adventure with rewarding vistas, this route is for you. You will need a high level of fitness and experience for this demanding journey. The path from Bloody Bridge is initially rocky, then joins a gravel road through a quarry before becoming a dirt trail. The ascent to Slieve Donard is particularly steep after reaching the Mourne Wall, requiring careful footwork. Hare's Gap, while having a well-maintained path when accessed via Trassey's Track, is still fairly steep and rocky. This combined route is notable for several key features, including the ascent of Slieve Donard, Northern Ireland's highest mountain, offering unparalleled summit views. A significant portion of the hike follows the historic Mourne Wall, a 31-kilometer (19-mile) dry-stone wall built between 1904 and 1922 to enclose the Silent Valley Reservoir catchment area. Hare's Gap is a historically significant point, once serving as an exit for smuggled goods carried through the mountains along the Brandy Pad. The trail transitions from coastal beginnings at Bloody Bridge, alongside a river, through old quarry areas, and onto exposed mountain slopes, showcasing the diverse beauty of the Mournes. Completing this rigorous combination of routes is a significant achievement, rewarding hikers with a deep immersion in the raw beauty and history of the Mourne Mountains.