The best walks and hikes around Slievedoo

Slievedoo is a vast, open forest where the public is welcome on foot. While there are no specific restrictions mentioned for dogs, it's a working forest and part of a sensitive ecosystem, including the Pettigoe Plateau Nature Reserve. It is critical to keep dogs under close control at all times to protect wildlife, such as ground-nesting birds like the Hen Harrier and Golden Plover, and to be mindful of any livestock. Always follow leave-no-trace principles.

The core Slievedoo area is rugged and best for experienced hikers. For a more accessible and family-friendly option nearby, consider the Lough Eske Gate Lodge loop from Donegal. It's a short and gentle walk. Another gentle option is the Drumharriff Wood sculpture trail near Pettigoe, which offers a pleasant stroll.

The Leghowney Loop is a great circular option. This 7 km (4.3 mi) trail offers a tour through the countryside and can typically be completed in under two hours.

Slievedoo Forest itself is an undeveloped wilderness without designated recreational facilities or official car parks. Hikers typically find informal parking at the start of tracks or roadsides, such as near the village of Pettigoe for routes like the Black Lough North loop. Always park responsibly, ensuring you do not block access for local residents, farm machinery, or emergency services.

The area is a haven for wildlife due to its remote nature and protected habitats. The adjoining Pettigoe Plateau is a Special Protection Area for birds, providing hunting grounds for the Merlin and Hen Harrier. In spring and summer, you may hear the call of the Golden Plover. The region also supports Irish hare, badgers, otters, and common lizards.

Yes, for those seeking a significant challenge, the Salmon Leap from Barnesmore Gap is a demanding 30 km (18.7 mi) trek. This route requires a full day, taking over 8 hours, and involves considerable distance and elevation gain, making it suitable for experienced and well-prepared hikers.

Given the rugged and remote nature of the terrain, preparation is key. Essential items include a map and compass (or a fully charged GPS device), waterproof and windproof clothing, sturdy hiking boots, and sufficient food and water. The ground is often boggy and uneven, so appropriate footwear is crucial. As there are no facilities, you must be completely self-sufficient.

Accessing the trailheads directly via public transport is challenging due to the area's remote nature. Bus services may run to nearby towns and villages like Pettigoe, but you will likely need to arrange a taxi or face a long walk to reach the start of most routes. Using a private vehicle is the most practical option for exploring this region.

Hiking around Slievedoo takes you through a wild and varied landscape. Expect large upland coniferous forests, open stretches of active blanket bog and wet heath, and scenic paths alongside numerous lakes and bog pools. The terrain is part of the Pettigoe Plateau, a vast and intact bog system, which creates a unique and remote feeling.

The Black Lough North loop from Pettigo is an excellent choice for a moderate hike. At 11.3 km (7 mi), it offers a good distance without being overly strenuous, featuring gentle elevation changes as it circles the lough.

The immediate forest area has no facilities. For refreshments, the nearby village of Pettigoe, which sits on the border between County Donegal and County Fermanagh, has a selection of local pubs and small shops where you can relax and refuel after your hike.

The routes in this region are well-regarded by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the sense of solitude and immersion in a wild, natural landscape. The combination of forest, bog, and lakeside scenery provides a memorable experience for those equipped for the challenge.