Slieve Donard by the Glen River
Northern Ireland's highest mountain, climbed from the seaside through forest and up to the Mourne Wall.
- Distance
- 9 km
- Ascent
- 850 m
- Time
- 4–5 h
- Grade
- Moderate
- Route
- Out and back
- High point
- 850 m
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About this walk
Slieve Donard by the Glen River is a moderate 9 km out-and-back walk with 850 m of ascent, taking 4 to 5 hours. It starts at Donard Park, Newcastle (grid reference J 374 306). It climbs Slieve Donard (850 m), a Marilyn. The start can be reached by public transport.
This route climbs from sea level, following the Glen River through Donard Wood and onto open hillside. The Mourne Wall leads the final steep section to the summit cairns.
Route
-
1
Through Donard Wood
Follow the Glen River path upstream through the forest and out onto the open hillside.
-
2
To the Mourne Wall
Climb to the saddle between Slieve Commedagh and Slieve Donard, then follow the wall steeply to the summit.
Summit
Questions about this walk
- How long does Slieve Donard by the Glen River take?
- Most walkers take 4–5 hours for the 9 km route, which has 850 m of ascent. That allows for short stops; give yourself longer in winter, in poor weather or with a group.
- Where does the walk start, and where can I park?
- It starts at Donard Park, Newcastle (grid reference J 374 306). Free car park at Donard Park.
- Can I get there by public transport?
- Ulsterbus services to Newcastle.
- How hard is it?
- It's graded moderate. Forest track, then a rough eroded path. Very steep beside the Mourne Wall.
- Which hill does it climb?
- Slieve Donard (850 m, Hewitt).
- Can I take my dog?
- Yes, dogs are welcome on this walk. Keep them on a lead near livestock.
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