The best walks and hikes around Leitrim

Yes, there are over 20 hiking trails to explore around Leitrim. The region offers a great mix of routes, with the majority being easy walks suitable for most fitness levels, alongside a selection of more moderate trails for those seeking a bit more of a challenge.

Leitrim has several popular spots for hiking.

Glencar Waterfall is a must-see, famous for its beauty and connection to W.B. Yeats, with an accessible trail. For a true sense of the wild, many hikers head to Sliabh an Iarainn (Iron Mountain), where you can find trails like the well-regarded Mullaghgarve Mass Rock Walk. Another dramatic and highly-rated destination is Eagle's Rock, which is Ireland's tallest free-standing rock tower and offers incredible views.

Absolutely. The area around Acres Lake in Drumshanbo is perfect for families, featuring Ireland's first floating boardwalk which is a unique and fun experience. The short, accessible trail to the base of Glencar Waterfall is also a fantastic option for all ages. For a whimsical walk, the Troll Wood in Dromahair offers a lovely uphill stroll through the woods.

Many trails in Leitrim are suitable for walking with a dog, but it's important to be mindful of the local environment. In areas with farmland and livestock, such as the uplands of Sliabh an Iarainn, dogs must be kept on a lead at all times. Woodland paths and blueway trails are often more relaxed, but always check for local signage at the trailhead before letting your dog off-lead.

The most famous is Glencar Waterfall, a stunning 15-meter cascade with a very accessible viewing area. It's a highlight for any visitor. For those exploring off the beaten path, Scardan Waterfall near Tullymurray is a quieter local spot. You can also find smaller, unnamed cascades along many of the county's woodland and hill walks, especially after rainfall.

Leitrim has numerous looped walks that allow you to start and finish in the same place. The Tullylacken Loop offers a moderate 10km forest walk on the foothills of Sliabh an Iarainn. For a shorter, easier option, the Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim loop from Antrim provides a gentle walk by the water. Many of the county's waymarked trails, like the Aghacashel Loop, are designed as circuits.

The Shannon Blueway is a network of trails on and alongside the water, stretching from Carrick-on-Shannon to Drumshanbo. The walking sections follow peaceful canal and river banks, offering flat and easy terrain. A key feature is the floating boardwalk at Acres Lake, making it a unique and scenic walk suitable for all abilities.

The trails on Sliabh an Iarainn are generally considered moderate to challenging. The terrain is wild, boggy, and can be steep in places, so good hiking boots are essential. The weather can change quickly in the uplands. While it offers a fantastic sense of remoteness and incredible views, it's best suited for hikers with some experience in hillwalking.

Given Ireland's changeable weather, waterproof gear (jacket and trousers) is essential, even on a sunny day. Sturdy, comfortable hiking boots are recommended, especially for hill and forest trails which can be muddy. Also, pack water, snacks, a fully charged phone, and a map of your route. For longer or more remote hikes, a first-aid kit is advisable.

The trails in Leitrim are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the tranquility of the routes, the beautiful lake and river scenery, and the mix of well-maintained paths and wilder upland trails. The sense of escaping the crowds is a frequently mentioned highlight.

Accessing trailheads via public transport can be challenging as many are in rural locations. Larger towns like Carrick-on-Shannon and Drumshanbo have bus services, which can get you closer to trail systems like the Shannon Blueway. However, for more remote routes, such as those on Sliabh an Iarainn or at Eagle's Rock, traveling by car is significantly more practical.