Walking & Hiking in Donegal

Dungloe River Walk - Slí Dhún na nGall - This walk is a pleasant stroll in the environs of Dungloe Town taking in the Dungloe River and Glenties Road. On pavement and path you are likely to see amazing birdlife. Looped Trail Length: 2km Time 40min Nearest Town: Dungloe Linked to National Waymarked Way

Woodquarter Forest Trail: - Walking Trail and picnic site. This trail is along the western shore of Mulroy Bay. It is over undulating ground which rises steeply at the furthest section of the trail and offers panoramic views of the bay along the way. This site is in a part of Donegal which includes some of the most scenic areas of the county. It is on the western shore of Mulroy bay which is pa…

The ancient territory (The Land of the O Doherty’s), of County Donegal is the most northerly part of Ireland. Its northern shore is on the restless Atlantic Ocean with Lough Swilly forming its western boundary and Lough Foyle to the east. Monuments of an earlier age grow from the landscape as castles, towers and ancient churches. The Celtic crosses and the pagan monuments come together in a co…

South West Donegal offers one of the most breathtaking stretches of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way. From the vibrant fishing port of Killybegs to the cultural heartland of Glencolmcille, this region is rich in natural beauty, heritage, and traditional charm. Explore the lively village of Kilcar, known for its handwoven tweed and coastal walks, and nearby historic Carrick, the gateway to the majest…

Hiking Donegal is your gateway to discovering what Donegal has to offer with regards to hiking and climbing. The website highlights the great coastal hikes, inland trails and peaks within the county. From gentle hikes, to more challenging routes that take in all Donegal has to offer. No matter what level of fitness or experience, everyone should be encouraged to experience the great outdoors a…

Cosán Colmcille - Although close to the town of Milford, and easily accessed from there, Loch Colmcille is a remote and tranquil location in an area which is rich in history and wildlife. The route to and from Milford is along footpath and quiet roads, whilst the 2.5 km section to the east of the Loch is along a disused road which is not accessible to cars. Distance: Approximately 7 kms Time…

This trail takes the walker on forest road through mixed age coniferous plantations past Rinnalack Hill and on to the shores of Lough Lilly. A small fen has developed here allowing white and yellow water lilies to flourish. A visit to Ards Forest Park will reward everyone at any time of the year. The park covers approximately 480 hectares (1200 acres) and includes a variety of habitats, among t…

Carndonagh Sli Na Slainte Walk Starting Point: Walk begins at Public Services Centre on Station Rd. Leaving starting point and crossing Malin St. at Crossing Point (CP) (close to roundabout), continue past shopping centre (on right), along open stretch of road, passing Inishowen Co-Op. Turn right at bridge which spans the Glenagannon River and right at Tul Na Ri restaurant/pub. Extra care must be…

The Shorefront Slí na Sláinte is a 1km linear walk starting at the carpark opposite Buncrana Leisure Centre on Buncrana’s shorefront and following the coastline along Lough Swilly. Swan Park Slí na Sláinte is a 2km looped walk starting from the carpark at the Old Pier by the Wolfe Tone Memorial across the historic six-arched Crana Bridge, turn right at the gates of Buncrana Castle and past O’Do…

Length: 3.5km (Not a looped walk) Time: 40mins Terrain: A mostly flat gravel path This trail brings you through the glen from the visitor centre Location is at the Bus Stop near the Visitor Centre. ( Grid Ref: C 039231) to Glenveagh castle and gardens. The walk begins at the bus shelter from where there is a fine view of the valley of Glenveagh and continues along the shores of Lo…

For those seeking a challenging but rewarding hike through remote country, this walk offers it all ( A strenuous, physically demanding with rough ground, steep slopes and only suitable for experienced and very fit walkers). Starting at the wonderfully atmospheric Lenan Strand, the route follows a mix of bog road, ancient cart tracks and open country. Looped trail Lenght 6.5km Time: 2-3hr Near…

Glenveagh Lough Inshagh Walk Length: 7km (Not a looped walk so walkers must return to the Visitor Centre or arrange a vehicle at the Lacknacoo car park at Gartan) Time: 1hr 30mins Terrain: Stony dirt track ending on a quiet tarred road This pathway once connected Glenveagh Castle to the village of Church Hill. The carriages of the Lough Swilly Railway brought visitors to the ra…

Drumboe Loop Trail - This trail loops around the northern part of the forest, following old forest roads and tracks and a new section of trail. This is a very pleasant walk through many species of trees, including some very large ones with bluebells in spring. Looped Trail Length: 2km Time: 1hr Nearest Town: Stranorlar Coilte Recreational Trails In the 17th century, a castle stood at the …

Come along and experience the magic of watching the sun rise from the summit of Errigal, seeing the amazing Donegal landscape slowly being revealed as the sun rises over the land! Clothing - wear comfortable and warm clothing, no denim, bring an extra warm layer plus waterproofs. Footwear - hiking boots are ideal but any sensible and secure footwear with good grips will suffice (no open toes…

Drumboe Multi Access - This trail follows forest tracks looping through the southern part of the forest to the western end, with the return along the river bank. It passes through some of the quieter parts of the forest with many species of trees and shrubs and there are bluebells and wild garlic in spring. There are good views of the river. In winter parts of this trail along the river may be flo…

A visit to Ards Forest Park will reward everyone at any time of the year. The park covers approximately 480 hectares (1200 acres) and includes a variety of habitats, among them sand dunes, beaches, salt marshes, salt water lakes, rock face and, of course, coniferous and deciduous woodlands. With such a variety of landscapes, it is possible to spend many hours exploring this wonderful park. The sea…

this is a walk for fit and experienced walkers only. Starting at the spectacularly located car park on the north side of the Gap of Marmore, this route takes the walker into the heart of Inishowens finest hills. The walk offers an unfolding backdrop of the rugged coastal scenery of north Donegal with Panoramic views in all directions. There is also a linear walk Marmore to Straid incorporating i…

Slí Ghabla (Gola Island) - Slí Dhún na nGall - Although relatively small, Gola Island is the ideal destination for a walker seeking an ‘off the beaten track’ experience. The island covers about 500 acres and is only one mile from the mainland. It is gently undulating, offers superb coastal scenery and supports an extensive range of birdlife. Looped Trail Length 4km Time 1hr 30mins Nearest To…

The Letterkenny Slí na Sláinte is 2.7km in length and starts at the Bus Depot at the Station Roundabout. To follow the route, continue towards Port Bridge passing Letterkenny Institute of Technology, then turning left just before the bridge onto Ballyraine Road. Passing the Mont Errigal Hotel and Ballyraine National School, turn left onto the Ramelton Road, noticing the pleasant view of Gortlee Wo…

Glenevin Waterfall Walk - The walk up Glenevein Valley to the Glenevin Waterfall in Clonmany, County Donegal, takes the rambler on a safe, well sign -posted route. Newly installed picnic areas blend easily into the natural landscape. Footbridges are dotted along the track as visitors criss cross the stream using the stepping stones. The basin at the foot of the waterfall is called Pohl-an-eas - t…