Premium Walk

Slieve Donard

Updated: May 28, 2025
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Walk Highlights

Nearest Town:
Newcastle, NI
Distance:
6.00 miles
Time:
6.00 hours
Difficulty:
Challenging
Terrain:

The terrain for the Slieve Donard walk in County Down is very challenging and strenuous. Lower sections through Donard Forest are on good, albeit often steep, paths. Higher up, once out of the forest, paths become increasingly steep, rocky, uneven, and can be very boggy and eroded in places, particularly on the ascent to the Saddle and the final push to the summit. The summit plateau is a broad, stony area. The mountain is very exposed to rapidly changing and often severe weather conditions (wind, rain, low cloud). Strong, sturdy, waterproof mountain boots are absolutely essential, as are full waterproofs, extra layers, a map, compass/GPS, and emergency supplies. This County Down mountain is a serious undertaking.

Facilities:
Toilets, Cafe

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About this Walk

Embark on the challenging and iconic ascent of Slieve Donard in County Down, Northern Ireland, the highest peak in both Northern Ireland and the province of Ulster, offering truly breathtaking panoramic views from its summit across the Mourne Mountains, the Irish Sea, and beyond. This classic mounta...

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Safety Disclaimer

Outdoor activities always involve an element of risk. Routes, terrain, surfaces, weather, access, livestock presence, water levels, and parking arrangements can change at any time, and path conditions may deteriorate without notice.

You are responsible for your own safety and for the safety, supervision, and wellbeing of your dogs, children, and anyone else with you. Please assess conditions for yourself before setting out and decide whether the walk is suitable for your group.

Dress appropriately for the conditions and bring suitable equipment, food, water, leads, navigation tools, and anything else needed for a safe outing. Trail Tails Ltd is not responsible for loss, damage, injury, incident, or any consequences arising from use of this information.

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