The best walks and hikes around Clonlum
4.3
(129)
947
hikers
76
hikes
Hiking around Clonlum is centered on the landscapes of the Ring of Gullion, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The region is characterized by rolling hills, lush woodlands, and the commanding presence of Slieve Gullion. Trails often combine forest tracks with open mountain paths, offering routes that cater to various fitness levels.
Best hiking trails around Clonlum
- The most popular hiking route is the Slieve Gullion loop — Ring of Gullion, an 8.5 mile (13.6 km) trail that…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
4.6
(14)
95
hikers
13.6km
04:07
450m
450m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
3
hikers
4.16km
01:01
150m
140m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3.9
(9)
36
hikers
8.01km
02:49
440m
440m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
45
hikers
2.76km
01:03
190m
190m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(2)
11
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Cycling through the Ring of Gullion, you'll always come across places where you just have to stop. The views up here are special - not spectacular in the usual sense, but rather calming and expansive. I took a short break and let my gaze wander over the wide valley. From the heights you can see the green landscape of Northern Ireland stretching gently into the distance. The quiet hills and scattered farms seem peaceful and remind you that sometimes it's the simple things that make a place special. With the trailer for the kids, it was nice to take a quick breather and enjoy the little break. The routes here offer enough variety so that you can really pedal and then roll comfortably again. Sometimes the wind is a bit stronger, but that's part of it if you want to experience nature to the fullest. A little tip: the viewpoints aren't always immediately visible, but if you have a good feeling for beautiful places, you'll find them all by yourself. A short stop and the moment is yours – and of course the vast landscape that lies at your feet
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In the middle of the forest, you suddenly find yourself standing in front of a bizarre stone creature - the "witch". She looks as if she has just risen from the mossy ground, with a mischievous smile and deep, expressive wrinkles on her face. This artfully designed stone is one of those unexpected encounters that transform the forest into a small adventure land. When you explore this magical place surrounded by old trees and whispering leaves, it almost seems as if the witch is greeting you with a wink. Here you can linger for a moment, enjoy the silence and let your imagination run wild - who knows what stories this forest still has to tell?
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On the way through the Giant's Lair you will be immersed in Irish legends. As soon as you pass under the artistically carved archway, a magical world opens up in which the story of Finn McCool comes to life. The path leads you and the whole family through four chapters that bring the world of legend to life with lovingly designed stations. For the little ones it is an exciting treasure hunt - at every bend there are new clues waiting for them, which they eagerly discover. While they run ahead to find the next adventure, there is enough time for you to enjoy the lush nature. The dense trees, the mosses and the ancient carvings make you forget everyday life. You are in the middle of a story that unfolds further with every step.
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As soon as you cross the gentle ridge of Slieve Gullion, the North Cairn stretches out before you - a slightly smaller hill than its southern neighbour, but no less impressive. The stones that gather here seem like silent sentinels, witnesses of the distant Bronze Age. Two ancient stone boxes were once found here during excavations, which lay hidden in the depths of history. The North Cairn, with its diameter of around 18 metres, invites you to pause for a moment and enjoy the peace. But it is not just the Cairn that is fascinating. Right next to it lies "Calliagh Beara's Lough", a quiet mountain lake that, according to legend, is the home of the witch Beara. On a clear day, the sky is reflected in the calm waters and you can almost feel the ancient magic of this place coming to life. The road here may be rocky, but the landscape rewards with sweeping views and a touch of mysticism that makes Slieve Gullion something special.
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Cycle with caution, one way system in place for this small section
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Enjoy the many view points to stop and take in the landscape
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This small forest at the foot of Slieve Gullion seems to be straight out of a fairy tale. Running through it will leave you enchanted, and you'll come across curious sculptures like this giant witch's face.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many hiking trails to choose from around Clonlum?
Yes, there is a wide variety of trails. You can find over 70 routes in the area, ranging from easy woodland walks to more demanding hill climbs within the Ring of Gullion.
What do other hikers think of the trails in the Clonlum area?
The hiking routes around Clonlum are well-regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 stars. Hikers often praise the stunning scenery across the Ring of Gullion and the mix of tranquil forest paths and open mountain terrain.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks near Clonlum?
Slieve Gullion Forest Park offers several accessible trails suitable for families. For a specific route, the Slieve Gullion Summit loop from Ring of Gullion AONB is a relatively short walk of under 3 km that still provides a great sense of the mountain.
Can I bring my dog on the trails?
Dogs are generally welcome on the trails in the Ring of Gullion area, especially in places like Slieve Gullion Forest Park. However, they should be kept on a lead, particularly on open mountainside where livestock may be grazing.
Where is the best place to park for a hike up Slieve Gullion?
The main car park for accessing the mountain is located within Slieve Gullion Forest Park. There are upper and lower car parks, with the upper one providing a higher starting point for summit trails. Arrive early on weekends as it can get busy.
Are there any hikes that feature historical or ancient sites?
Yes, the area is rich in history. Many trails on Slieve Gullion lead past the ancient passage tomb at the summit. You can also visit the Clonlum South Cairn, a Neolithic portal tomb. For more information on this specific site, you can visit the Department for Communities heritage site page.
What are the trail conditions like on Slieve Gullion?
Trails vary from well-maintained gravel paths and forest tracks in Slieve Gullion Forest Park to open, sometimes boggy, mountain paths on the upper slopes. The summit path can be rocky and uneven. Waterproof hiking boots are recommended for most routes.
How do the hikes here compare to the Mourne Mountains?
While the Mourne Mountains are known for their rugged granite peaks and dramatic clusters of mountains, the hiking around Clonlum is characterized by the unique geology of the Ring of Gullion's volcanic ring dyke. It offers more rolling hills and extensive woodlands, with Slieve Gullion as the single dominant peak.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced walkers?
While most routes are moderate, you can find challenges by combining trails or tackling the steep ascents of Slieve Gullion. The region's only difficult-rated hike is a demanding 25-km loop that provides a significant test of endurance.
Can I get to the trailheads using public transport?
Public transport options to the main trailheads like Slieve Gullion Forest Park are limited. The nearest major town with better bus connections is Newry. From there, you would likely need to take a taxi. Driving is the most convenient way to access most hikes in the area.
What is the best viewpoint in the Ring of Gullion?
The summit of Slieve Gullion offers the most spectacular 360-degree views. On a clear day, you can see across the entire Ring of Gullion, south to the Cooley Peninsula, and east towards the Mourne Mountains.
Is there a good shorter option for reaching the summit of Slieve Gullion?
For a more direct and shorter ascent, consider the Slieve Gullion Summit – Calliagh Beara Lough loop from Mullaghbawn. This route is under 5 km but still includes the rewarding climb to the top and the mystical summit lake.
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