Benbulben Guided Hike
Located in north Sligo, Benbulben is known as Irelands table mountain and is one of the most photographed mountains in the country. This approximately 320 million year old mountain is full…
Hike the Glencar Escarpment and experience incredible views over the picturesque glacial valley of Glencar, home to the famous Glencar Waterfall and the more recently noted Devils Chimney Waterfall, visit the Glencarbury Barytes Mines and climb Kings Mountain.
About
This incredible hike will bring you across the Dartry Mountain range overlooking the picturesque glacial valley of Glencar, home to the famous Glencar Waterfall and the more recently noted Devils Chimney Waterfall along with the Swiss Valley, Glencarbury Mines and Glencar Lake. The Glencar Escarpment is often referred to as one of county Sligo’s most beautiful hiking routes.
Beginning our day at the Glencar Tea shed we take a quick 5-minute carpool to the starting point of our hike located at the foot of Kings Mountain. From here we climb the steep but safe face of mountain alongside the impressive Kings Gully and pass the huge fissure known as Annach re Mhor before reaching Kings summit for your first panoramic view of the day. Moving along we follow the cliffside route to the now abandoned Glencarbury Barytes Mines. The mines, which were known worldwide, operated for over 100 years providing generations of employment to local families. Lunch at the mines leads to our final leg of the day which takes us to the Devils Chimney Waterfall or ‘Sruth in Aghaidh An Aird’ as it’s known locally before continuing onwards high above the area known as the Swiss Valley before joining up with a trail and road to take us back to the Glencar Tea Sheds to end this epic hiking route.
This is a moderate grade hike will see you climb over 500 meters, walk 12km lasting roughly 5-6 hours.
Meeting location: Glencar Tea Shed
Itinerary
- Hike the Glencar Escarpment, one of Sligo’s most beautiful hiking routes.
- Suitable for anyone with a basic level of fitness, a keen attitude and an adventurous nature.
- Allow 5-6 hours for hike.
Pickup
Glencar Tea Sheds, Glencar, Co Leitrim.
Things to bring
Appropriate outdoor clothing necessary.
Example: Boots/appropriate hiking footwear, waterproof jacket/leggings, insulation layers. No denims.
Water and snacks.
Inclusions
Experienced and fully qualified guide.
Fresh mountain side tea/coffee.
Exclusions
Hikers may not be allowed to join group if not dressed appropriately for mountainous terrain.
Strictly no dogs.
Cancellation Policy
- In the event of a cancellation the Customer must contact Northwest Adventure Tours directly in writing by email to: info@northwestadventuretours.ie
- Cancellations will not be accepted by text or phone call.
View cancellation policy
Areas this adventure covers
Glencar Escarpment
Glencar Escarpment
Our Happy Visitors
Organised two hill climbs with North West Adventures. I was part of a club booking of 17 people. Two guides accompanied us each day. They were professional, friendly, knowledgeable and always had safety to the fore. Thoroughly recommend this company for your walks.
John
Group Booking
Our Happy Visitors
North West Adventure Tours surely have the best mountain tour guides in Ireland. We had 3 guides over a two-day hiking tour of the Dartry Mountains in Co Sligo. All were professionally trained, experienced, safety conscious, friendly and helpful. Above all, they demonstrated an intimate knowledge of the terrain, its history and culture
Colm M
Dartry Mountains
Our Happy Visitors
Went to Mweelrea on a guided tour, the guides (Barry and William) were well-organised, friendly and helpful. Pace was good, conditions were tricky in parts and were handled well and we were guided through them. A very professional outfit and they knew exactly what they were doing. Ar fheabhas ar fad.
Rob
Mweelrea walking tour
Our Happy Visitors
Had an amazing hike last Sunday up Benbulben, so enjoyable, we would highly recommend a hike with North West Adventure Tour, Barry and Trish great fun and very informative of local knowledge. Thank you for a great day trip. Caroline and Damien
Caroline C
Benbulben Hike
Our Happy Visitors
Thoroughly enjoyed my day on Croagh Patrick climb. Very friendly experienced guides .Cloudy evening blocked the sunset but what an experience to be under the stars on Croagh Patrick …thank you to all the team and fellow hikers …looking forward to more hikes ….
Passenger706319
Croagh Patrick March 2024
Explore the North West with us
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need hiking boots?
Yes, for most if not all of our hiking tours boots are essential. See the hike page you are enquiring about for full suggested list.
What clothing to bring?
Rain jacket/leggings. Warm layers, hats, gloves etc. Each hikes page has a full list of recommended kit.
How long is the hike?
Hike distance and estimated times are listed on each hike’s description page.
Can I bring my dog?
As much as we love our own doggie’s company, all our hikes are strictly dog free.
Is there age restrictions on hikes?
Yes, please see the hike description page that you are interested in for full info on age limits.
Can you run a hike that's no listed on your site, or can you run a hike in my area.
Yes, we can tailor hiking tours anywhere in Ireland UK and beyond.
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