Carrick-on-Shannon: the Perfect Basecamp for Walking and Hiking Enthusiasts!
Welcome to Carrick-on-Shannon, Co. Leitrim’s largest town, the perfect destination for a break away from the old routine. Located at the gateway to the northwest, Carrick is a thriving town which offers so much to our visitors. And for those of you who love the outdoors, Carrick offers close access to some of the finest and undiscovered landscapes in the country – by water and by land. Under-explored by the masses Leitrim and neighbouring Roscommon, which is literally across the bridge, are yours to explore and Carrick Plaza Suites couldn’t be better located for your basecamp!
In this blog we focus on terra firma. We have compiled a list of notable hiking trails, ranging from gentle walks to moderately challenging routes, all within a short drive from your accommodation here at Carrick Plaza Suites.
You might also find this interesting - a guide by Leitrim Tourism containing a sample of the variety of walks available in Leitrim, suitable for all levels of fitness, while a full list of walks is also available on the Leitrim Tourism website.
Sheemore Hill Trail
Distance from Carrick-on-Shannon: Approximately 8.7km and 12 minutes by car
Trail Length: 1.9km
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
With it so nearby, it would be a shame to miss the Sheemore Hill trail. This 1.9 km out-and-back trail offers a moderately challenging hike with a 99-meter elevation gain, perfect for those on a short visit.
Sheemore Hill, known as the "Hill of the Fairies," is rich in mythology and natural beauty. As you ascend, you’ll encounter fairy trees and ancient tombs that have inspired musicians and artists over the years. The summit features three cairns and is illuminated by a striking crucifix at night, adding a touch of magic to your hike.
Ideal for hiking, running, or a peaceful walk, the Sheemore trail promises an enchanting experience with minimal crowds. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the mystical charm of Leitrim’s hills.
The Shannon Blueway
Distance from Carrick-on-Shannon: Starting at Drumshanbo, approximately 12.4km and 15 minutes by car,
Trail Length: Various lengths
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
The Shannon Blueway from Drumshanbo to Carrick on Shannon offers a versatile and scenic walking experience, with two main routes and additional optional looped walks that allow you to customize your journey.
Main Trail: Drumshanbo to Carrick on Shannon
Drumshanbo to Battlebridge Lock (6.5 km, 2 hours): This section of the trail begins at Acres Lake in Drumshanbo, where you’ll encounter one of the most unique features of the Shannon Blueway—the floating boardwalk. As Ireland’s first floating boardwalk, this 600-meter stretch allows you to walk directly over the serene waters of Acres Lake, providing an incredibly scenic and peaceful start to your journey. The boardwalk offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, making it a highlight of the entire Blueway. From there, the linear trail continues along the canal bank through beautiful Leitrim countryside, leading to Battlebridge Lock.
Battlebridge Lock to Carrick-on-Shannon (10.5 km, 3 hours 30 minutes): The second section of the main trail extends 10.5 km from Battlebridge Lock to Carrick on Shannon. This route offers a varied walking experience, passing through a mix of landscapes as you make your way toward the vibrant town of Carrick on Shannon.
Optional Looped Walks
Battlebridge Lock to Drumleague Lock (5 km, 1 hour 45 minutes): This looped canal walk provides a shorted trail option. The 5 km route takes you through charming landscapes and past historic locks.
Battlebridge Lock to Drumhauver Bridge (10 km, 3 hours): For a longer looped walk, this 10 km route continues from Drumleague Lock to Drumhauver Bridge and back. It offers an immersive experience of the Shannon Blueway’s natural beauty, with varied scenery and opportunities and you might be lucky enough to observe the locks in action as they assist boats to navigate the waterway.
The Boyle Walk and Lough Key Forests Park Trails
Distance from Carrick-on-Shannon: Approximately 15km and 15 minutes by car
Trail Length: Boyle Walk: 7.9km, Lough Key Trails: Various lengths
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
The Boyle Walk and the trails within Lough Key Forest Park offer walkers a delightful combination of scenic beauty, historical interest, and easy-to-moderate paths suitable for all ages and abilities. Starting with the Boyle Walk, this 7.9 km route takes you through Boyle Marina, along the peaceful banks of the Boyle Canal, and through lush woodlands, eventually leading you to the magnificent Lough Key. As you walk, you'll be surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, making it an ideal choice for those looking to immerse themselves in the tranquillity of the area.
While in Boyle, there are several points of interest to explore. Visit the historic Boyle Abbey, learn about the rich heritage of the town and its people at King House, or continue your adventure into Lough Key Forest and Activity Park.
Lough Key Forest Park itself offers an additional 3 km to 4 km of trails through 350 hectares of breathtaking natural beauty. The park combines woodland and water with a wealth of intriguing points of interest, including the Bog Garden, Fairy Bridge, Ice House, and a Wishing Chair. The trails are easy to moderate in difficulty, making them accessible to most walkers.
Sliabh an Iarainn (Iron Mountain)
Distance from Carrick-on-Shannon: Approximately 22.7km and 30 minutes by car
Location: Drumshanbo, Co. Leitrim
Trail Length:
- Aughacashel Loop – 3 km (1-1hr 20 mins) Easy
- Tullylackan Loop – 10 km (3 hrs -3 hrs 30 mins) Moderate
- Crummy Loop – 12 km (3 hrs – 3 hrs 30 mins) Moderate
Sliabh an Iarainn, the wild and rugged mountain in County Leitrim, rises majestically 585 meters above sea level on the eastern shore of Lough Allen. Known as the "Mountain of Iron" due to the rich iron deposits found in its rocks, this iconic peak is steeped in both natural beauty and historical significance. It’s said that iron ore from Sliabh an Iarainn was used in the construction of Dublin’s famous Halfpenny Bridge, adding to the mountain's storied past.
For hikers, Sliabh an Iarainn offers a rewarding and immersive experience. The trails wind through forested areas and open moorland, leading to panoramic views of Lough Allen and the surrounding countryside. At the summit, you'll be greeted with stunning vistas, making every step of the ascent worthwhile. The mountain offers a choice of trails of varying distances.
The Miners Way and Historical Trail
Distance from Carrick-on-Shannon: There are a choice of trails with different starting points
Trail Length: There are a number of trails and 2 routes totally 118 km.
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate in places
The Miners Way and Historical Trail is a captivating network of walking routes that winds through the scenic hills and valleys of Counties Leitrim, Roscommon, and Sligo. Just a short drive from Carrick on Shannon, this trail offers walkers a unique opportunity to explore Ireland’s rich mining history and breathtaking landscapes. The trail is divided into two main sections: the Miners Way, which traces the paths once used by miners heading to the Arigna Coal Mines, and the Historical Trail, which traverses the Curlew, Bricklieve, and Arigna Mountains.
Together, these routes cover a total of 11km, offering a mix of challenging climbs and leisurely walks. The Miners Way stretches 65.7 km, ascending 1,300 meters, while the Historical Trail is 60.5 km long with an 850-meter ascent. Along the way, you’ll encounter sites of historical interest, such as the Carrowkeel megalithic complex, and stunning views that connect Ireland’s Ancient East with the Wild Atlantic Way.
Whether you’re up for a week-long adventure or prefer to explore shorter sections, this trail caters to all levels of walkers. For those planning to walk in the Leitrim area, maps of the route can be downloaded from the Leitrim Tourism website. Start your journey by visiting Leitrim Tourism to access maps and plan your route.
Before We Finish Up...
It’s important to say, if you are planning to go for a hike, don’t forget all the usual safety guidance; check the weather conditions, wear suitable clothing and footwear, stay on way-marked trails, let someone know your plans, bring essentials including a charged phone, leave no trace and enjoy!
Ranging from easy to moderate in difficulty, these 5 routes offer a variety of options. We hope that this has given you some inspiration to get out and about and enjoy the beautiful landscape that Leitrim and nearby Roscommon has to offer.
Contact
Address
Carrick Plaza Suites,
Mercantile Plaza,
Bridge Street,
Carrick-On-Shannon,
Co. Leitrim
N41 WA27
Phone
0719616266
