The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Lough Shindilla
4.9
(12)
105
hikers
4
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Lough Shindilla are situated within the Connemara region and the Maumturk Mountains Special Area of Conservation. The landscape features diverse terrain, including blanket bog, alpine heath, and rugged hills, with the shimmering waters of Lough Shindilla reflecting the surroundings. Hikers can expect a mix of lakeside paths and elevated viewpoints offering vistas over other loughs like Lough Corrib and Lough Inveragleragh. The area provides varied natural features, from boggy conditions typical of Irish hills to…
Last updated: May 17, 2026
5.0
(2)
13
hikers
16.7km
05:09
380m
380m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(1)
11
hikers
8.99km
03:05
280m
280m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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4.7
(7)
54
hikers
3.55km
01:23
160m
160m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(1)
17
hikers
15.5km
04:03
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The path to the waterfall from the sign has been blocked. Too bad.
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This part of the Western Way passes between the outlying peak of Lackavrea and Corcogemore, on the eastern end of the rugged Maumturks range. Here, nestles the little Maunwee Lough, a lovely spot. The end of the first stage, at Maum, is just a short hop from here.
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NB: At the time of writing (July 2025), this section of the Western Way was impassable and closed until further notice. See: thewesternway.ie for trail updates. This is a beautiful section of the Western Way long-distance trail. Boardwalks take you along the bog beneath the Maumturks outlier of Lackavrea, an impressive, standalone peak. Expect pretty little waterfalls, grand views into the heart of Connemara and rich wildlife.
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A great walk with kids. Plenty of place for them to run around, climb boulders etc. My kid loves it. Plan for rain jacket; it often rains there! Being the Connemara and all that! 🙈😂
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Cam you hear the sound of the waterfall ? If so ignore the official trail for a moment. There's a small trail on the right hand side of the sign. A really short walk will take you to this small waterfall. Well worth a visit.
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The Western Way crosses Counties Galway and Mayo. The start is close to here, to the southeast in Oughterard. The first section is 15 miles (24 km) in length to Maum.
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Take a short detour off the Western Way to this cute waterfall. There is even a bench to rest your weary legs and listen to the beautiful sound of water rushing over the rocks.
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Small well-tended chapel right at Maumeen Pass in the middle of the Maumturk Mountains.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Lough Shindilla?
Our guide features four family-friendly hiking routes around Lough Shindilla, offering a range of experiences from moderate to more challenging, ensuring there's something for various family fitness levels.
What kind of terrain should we expect on family hikes in this area?
The terrain around Lough Shindilla is diverse, featuring rugged paths, hills, and lakeside trails. You might encounter boggy conditions in some areas, typical of Irish hills, but these often lead to expansive views. Trails like the Maumeen Chapel loop from Illion ED offer a more accessible experience.
Are there any easy circular routes suitable for families with younger children?
Yes, the Maumeen Chapel loop from Illion ED is a shorter, easier option at 3.55 km, making it suitable for most fitness levels and great for families with plenty of space for children to explore. Maumeen Chapel itself is a small, well-tended chapel located at Maumeen Pass.
What are some good spots for a family picnic around Lough Shindilla?
The area around Lough Shindilla offers numerous picturesque spots for a family picnic, especially along the shores of the lough itself. Trails with views of Lough Inveragleragh, such as the Stone Bridge – Maumeen Chapel loop from Cur ED, provide beautiful backdrops for a break.
Can we bring our dog on these family-friendly trails?
While many trails in the Connemara region are dog-friendly, it's always best to keep dogs on a leash, especially in areas with livestock or ground-nesting birds. Please ensure you clean up after your pet to preserve the natural beauty of the area.
Are there any interesting sights or landmarks for kids along the way?
Absolutely! The Maumeen Chapel loop from Illion ED leads to the historic Maumeen Chapel, a small, well-tended chapel nestled in the heart of the Maumturk Mountains. From elevated points, you can also spot the historic Inver Lodge on an island in Lough Inveragleragh, adding a touch of history to your hike.
What's the best time of year for family hiking around Lough Shindilla?
The changing seasons bring unique charm to Lough Shindilla. While summer offers lush green landscapes, autumn provides vibrant colors. The area is beautiful year-round, but for families, late spring to early autumn generally offers the most pleasant weather conditions for hiking.
Is parking available for these family hiking trails?
Parking availability varies by trailhead. For routes like the Maumeen Chapel loop from Illion ED, there are often small parking areas near the starting points in villages or designated lay-bys. It's advisable to check specific route details for precise parking information.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking with family in Lough Shindilla?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning Connemara views, the sense of wild beauty, and the opportunity for children to explore in a natural setting, especially on the less strenuous loops.
Are there any cafes or places to eat near the family-friendly trails?
While the immediate vicinity of some trailheads might be remote, nearby villages such as Maam Cross offer cafes and pubs where families can refuel after their hike. It's a good idea to plan your refreshments in advance, especially with children.
What wildlife might we see on a family hike around Lough Shindilla?
Lough Shindilla is part of the Maumturk Mountains Special Area of Conservation (SAC), known for its rich variety of flora and fauna. Birdwatchers will appreciate the diverse avian life, and you might spot various small mammals or insects typical of blanket bog and alpine heath environments.
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