Walking Routes
Conquer Northern Ireland's highest peaks, wander through enchanted forests, and follow ancient smugglers' trails across dramatic mountain landscapes.
Mountain Summits
From Northern Ireland's highest peak to dramatic granite tors, these summits offer world-class hiking with breathtaking panoramas.
Slieve Donard
Northern Ireland's highest peak. Follow the Glen River through woodland to the saddle between Donard and Commedagh, then meet the Mourne Wall for the final ascent.
Views: On clear days - Isle of Man, Wales, Scotland, Wicklow Mountains, Donegal
Saint Donard, a disciple of St Patrick, is said to have become a hermit on the peak
Slieve Binnian
Mountain of the Little Peaks. Traverse spectacular South and North Tors, descend past Blue Lough and views of Silent Valley Reservoir.
Views: Silent Valley and Ben Crom Reservoirs below, towering summits beyond
Irish name Sliabh Binneain means "mountain of the little peaks"
Slieve Bearnagh
The most distinctive peak with dramatic granite tors. Steep pitches, rocky scrambles, exposed ridges. Often requires use of hands on large stone steps.
Views: Hares Gap mountain pass - once a smugglers' route for contraband
Part of the famous Three Peaks route with Donard and Commedagh via the Brandy Pad
More Summits to Explore
Slieve Commedagh
765m2nd highest peak, combine with Donard
Slieve Meelmore
704m11km loop from Ott Car Park
Slieve Meelbeg
702mTwin peak with Meelmore
Slieve Loughshannagh
619mViews of lakes and mountains
Slieve Doan
593m360-degree panoramic views
Forest Park Trails
Enchanting woodland walks through ancient forests, perfect for families and anyone seeking a gentler connection with nature.
Tollymore Forest Park
Game of Thrones' Haunted Forest
Northern Ireland's first State Forest Park (1955). Filming location for the Haunted Forest scenes. Oak wood from here was used in the RMS Titanic.
Castlewellan Forest Park
Peace Maze & Victorian Splendour
Set around a stunning Victorian Castle and lake. Features some of the most outstanding tree and shrub collections in Europe.
Kilbroney Park
C.S. Lewis's Narnia Trail
Lewis wrote that Rostrevor's view of Carlingford Lough was "my idea of Narnia". The woodland trail features sculptures and scenes from the Chronicles.
Silent Valley
Heart of Mourne
Iconic reservoir in the Mourne Mountains with 7 walking trails, visitor centre, and cafe. Open Apr-Oct 10am-6pm, Nov-Mar 10am-4pm. Tel: 08457 440088. niwater.com/silent-valley
Murlough Nature Reserve
Ireland's First Nature Reserve
National Trust reserve (1967). A fragile sand dune system with boardwalks leading to vast golden sand beaches.
Long-Distance & Challenge Routes
Multi-day expeditions and legendary challenges for experienced hikers seeking their next great adventure.
The Mourne Way
challengingNewcastle to Rostrevor
Through Tollymore Forest, below Slieve Bearnagh, past Fofanny Dam, summits Butter Mountain (highest point), views of Spelga Dam, to Carlingford Lough.
Encounter the 3,000-year-old King's Grave, a Bronze Age burial site
Mourne Wall Challenge
expertCircular via 15 summits
Follow the famous Mourne Wall which took nearly 20 years to build. The ultimate test of endurance across 15 mountain peaks.
Historic wall built to protect the Silent Valley water catchment
St Patrick's Way
challengingPilgrim trail
Northern Ireland's answer to the Camino de Santiago. A signed trail taking in 10 of the area's best natural and historical beauty spots.
Walkers receive a Pilgrim's Passport and certificate
The Brandy Pad
challengingHistoric smugglers' track
A well-trodden route created by ponies carrying contraband brandy from the coast through the mountains. Links Donard, Commedagh, and Bearnagh.
Walk in the footsteps of 18th century smugglers
More Challenge Routes
Practical Information
What to Bring
- Sturdy walking boots (ankle support essential)
- Waterproof jacket and layers
- Map and compass (don't rely solely on phone)
- Food, water, and emergency supplies
- Fully charged phone (for emergencies)
Safety Tips
- Tell someone your route and expected return time
- Start early - daylight hours are limited
- Turn back if conditions deteriorate
- Stay on marked trails when possible
- Emergency: Dial 999, ask for Mountain Rescue
Weather Considerations
- Weather changes rapidly in the mountains
- Check forecast before setting out
- Mist can descend quickly, reducing visibility
- Summits are significantly colder and windier
- Trails can be muddy after rain
Car Parks & Trailheads
Donard Park
Newcastle
For: Slieve Donard, Glen River
Carrick Little
Near Annalong
For: Slieve Binnian, Blue Lough
Trassey Road
Bryansford
For: Hares Gap, Bearnagh
Ott Car Park
Attical
For: Meelmore, Meelbeg, Doan
Bloody Bridge
Newcastle
For: Alternative Donard route
Silent Valley
Kilkeel road
For: Reservoir walks, Ben Crom
Guided Walking Providers
Join experienced local guides for insider knowledge, safety expertise, and stories that bring these mountains to life.
Men of Mournes
Ancient secrets, Binnian Tunnel, Mourne Wall
Mourne Mountain Adventures
Guided hikes, wild camping, navigation training
Geology Rocks Adventure Tourism
Geology combined with mountaineering
Stories Along the Way
Plan Your Visit
Ready-made trip plans to make the most of your visit.
Ready to Explore?
Plan your walking adventure in the Mourne Mountains. Get practical information on getting here, where to stay, and the best times to visit.