Slieve Binnian Summit Tor and North Tor Circular Walk

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The Slieve Binnian Summit Tor and North Tor Circular Walk is an amazing adventure in Northern Ireland that will take you up to the summit of the country’s third-highest peak for some stunning views. While out walking the trail, you will climb gradually uphill along a track and pass by Blue Lough, before making the steep climb up the mountainside for breathtaking views across the Mourne Mountains. This is a solid half-day walk that features some rugged terrain, so be sure to arrive prepared and give yourself an ample amount of time to complete the route.

Route Description for Slieve Binnian Summit Tor and North Tor Circular Walk

While the Slieve Binnian Summit Tor and North Tor Circular Walk isn’t overly challenging, it does feature some fairly rugged and boggy terrain that you will need to account for. Make sure to wear proper walking boots with good support for this adventure. Additionally, you should try to arrive early in order to secure a parking space for this popular route.

Even though some of the terrain underfoot might be a little wet and boggy, the spectacular views along this exciting walking route will more than make up for any tough going you may experience while working your way uphill. Ads Slieve Binnian is the third-highest peak in Northern Ireland, you will be able to take in some absolutely stunning views over the nearby mountains and sea, making this a route that you will certainly not want to miss out on.

Setting out from the Carrick Little car park, you will head to the northeast along the road for 1.0 km, continuing on as it bends to the northwest to meet up with a gate. Make your way through the gate and keep on as the path becomes more narrow, taking you uphill to reach a fork in 0.3 km. Keep right here and continue on to the northwest under the shadow of Slieve Binnian on your right.

Keeping left for the next 3.5 km, you will traverse the boggy terrain and pass by the calm waters of Blue Lough on your right, eventually arriving at a junction in the saddle between Slieve Lamagan on your right and Slieve Binnian on your left. Turn left here and follow the path as it begins the steep climb uphill to reach the North Tor of Slieve Binnian. Once you are at the top, you will enjoy some spectacular views across the Mourne Mountains and the Silent Valley far below.

Continuing on to the south, you will traverse the rugged peak of Slieve Binnian and continue to take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. After making your way across the Summit Tor at the southern end of the peak, follow the path to the left as it begins to descend the steep mountainside. After traversing the boggy slopes for 2.2 km, you will arrive back at the initial junction from the beginning of your walk. Head to the right here in order to retrace your steps back to the car park where you began the Slieve Binnian Summit Tor and North Tor Circular Walk.

Trail Highlights

Slieve Binnian

At mi value=, Slieve Binnian is the third-highest mountain in Northern Ireland. The rugged summit is fairly flat and features tors at both the north and south ends, which makes for an impressive sight from the Silent Valley below. The name Slieve Binnian (Sliabh Binneáin) means ‘mountain of the little peak’ in Irish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the walk up Slieve Binnian Hard?

While it is a mildly strenuous walk, the journey up to the summit of Slieve Binnian is achievable for most walkers of even moderate fitness.

How tall is Slieve Binnian?

Slieve Binnian is 747 m tall, making it the third-highest peak in Northern Ireland.

Insider Hints for Slieve Binnian Summit Tor and North Tor Circular Walk

Make sure to wear proper walking boots with good support, as there are some rugged stretches along this trail
This route can be fairly muddy and slick after a good rainfall, so prepare accordingly.
Parking at the Carrick Little car park is free, although there are only enough spaces for 20-25 cars.

Getting to the Slieve Binnian Summit Tor and North Tor Circular Walk Trailhead

To reach the trailhead for the Slieve Binnian Summit Tor and North Tor Circular Walk from Kilkeel, head east on The Square/A2 for 1.3 km and turn left onto Carrigenagh Road, following it for 5.5 km. Keep straight onto Head Road for another 4.0 km, turning left to enter the car park.