Annalong Wood and Blue Lough Circular Walk

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Hard
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
5-6.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
14.6 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
797 m
User Ratings
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Directions to Trailhead
Annalong Wood and Blue Lough Circular Walk

The Annalong Wood and Blue Lough Circular Walk is a rugged and challenging adventure in the Mourne Mountains of Northern Ireland that will see you scramble up several mountain peaks for breathtaking views. While out walking the trail, you will make your way through Annalong Wood towards the north, climbing uphill across Slieve Beg, Cove Mountain, and Slievelamagan, before descending alongside Blue Lough. This is a difficult journey that should only be attempted by experienced and prepared walkers.

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Route Description for Annalong Wood and Blue Lough Circular Walk

Although it presents several challenges throughout the route, the Annalong Wood and Blue Lough Circular Walk is an exceptional adventure that will enable you to get the most out of your time in the Mourne Mountains. Make sure to come prepared with sturdy walking boots and all of the proper gear to traverse the exposed and rocky mountain peaks.

Setting out from the Carrick Little Car Park, you will make your way north along the edge of Annalong Wood, following along the track as it leads you towards the mountains. Keeping to the right, you will cross over several streams and begin the steep and rocky ascent of Slieve Beg along the Devil’s Coachroad. From here, you will head west to traverse the saddle between Slieve Beg and Cove Mountain.

After climbing up the somewhat less-treacherous slopes of Cove Mountain, you will continue on to the southwest and climb further uphill towards the summit of Slievelamagan, where you will enjoy some spectacular views of the undulating terrain surrounding you. From here, you will head downhill into the saddle between Slievelamagan and Slieve Binnian, before turning to the southeast to pass by the shores of Blue Lough. At this point, you will continue walking to the southeast to meet up with your original path and follow it back to the trailhead.

Getting to the Annalong Wood and Blue Lough Circular Walk Trailhead

The trailhead for the Annalong Wood and Blue Lough Circular Walk can be found at the Carrick Little Car Park on Head Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    No

  • When to do

    March-October

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    No

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Lollipop

Annalong Wood and Blue Lough Circular Walk Elevation Graph

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Annalong Wood and Blue Lough Circular Walk Reviews

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