Highlight • Summit
Slieve Binnian summit
Hiking
5.0
(132)
At 2,448 feet (746 m), this peak is the third-highest in the country and certainly tremendously fun to explore. The trails to the summit offer little in the way of technical challenges, although some sections of rubble track mean surefootedness is vital and walking poles might be useful. It’s a very doable ascent in good weather for most hikers, including enthusiastic, older children.
Staggering coastal views from Northern Ireland’s third-highest peak
The most popular starting point is from Carrick Little car park to the south east. There’s also a cafe nearby, should you fancy a coffee and a bite to eat before or after your hike. The trail layout from here makes it easy to undertake a loop walk.
One of the most magnificent things about Slieve Binnian is its granite tors. The summit is littered with enormous outcrops of rock, perfect for both scrambling over and perching atop with a slice of cake and a thermos flask.
From the summit, the eastern horizon is filled with the Irish Sea. If you ascend on a particularly clear day, you can see over to distant Wales. The western half of the view is dominated by the majestic Mourne Mountains, luring you on to longer hikes. Below, is the Silent Valley Reservoir, which has its own set of trails worth exploring.
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
May 3, 2018
Hiking
Fantastic views down to silent valley reservoir and south towards Carlingford.
As with any hill walking - be prepared for a change in weather and have good footwear. Enjoy
March 10, 2021
Hiking
May 25, 2026
Hiking
expresstollpass.com
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Slieve Binnian summit
4.7
(7)
32
hikers
19.4km
07:19
1,300m
1,300m
This difficult 12.0-mile (19.4 km) loop through the Mourne Mountains takes you over Slieve Binnian, Slieve Lamagan, and Slieve Donard, requiring about 7 hours and 18 minutes to complete. You will gain 4249 feet (1295 metres) in elevation, traversing diverse and demanding terrain. Expect to scramble over granite boulders on Slieve Binnian, known for its distinctive rocky tors like the Back Castles. The route offers panoramic views, including vistas down to the Silent Valley Reservoir and across the Irish Sea from Slieve Donard's summit. You will encounter heather, granite outcrops, and the historic Mourne Wall guiding your way.
This challenging loop demands a very good level of fitness and experience. You should be prepared for sustained steep climbs and descents, along with rough and uneven terrain. Given the potential for challenging weather conditions, sturdy footwear and appropriate outdoor clothing are essential. Make sure you have strong navigation skills, as paths on Slieve Lamagan can become indistinct. Carry sufficient supplies for the 7-hour and 18-minute duration.
This loop is notable for combining three iconic Mourne peaks, including Slieve Donard, Northern Ireland's highest mountain, and Slieve Binnian, which offers some of the best views in the region. The historic Mourne Wall, a 31-kilometer dry-stone wall built over nearly 20 years, serves as a significant landmark and navigational aid across parts of the trail. You will experience diverse landscapes, from rocky tors and granite outcrops to views of loughs and reservoirs. Completing this physically demanding route offers immense satisfaction and a true sense of accomplishment.
4.5
(2)
32
hikers
34.7km
12:53
2,220m
2,230m
The Mourne Wall Challenge offers a highly demanding hiking experience through Northern Ireland's Mourne Mountains. This difficult route spans 21.6 miles (34.7 km) and involves an impressive 7300 feet (2225 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 12 hours and 52 minutes to complete. You will traverse rough, uneven terrain with sustained steep climbs and descents, often scrambling over rock faces on peaks like Slieve Binnian and Slieve Bearnagh, all while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and reservoirs.
This very strenuous challenge requires a high level of fitness and experience. Given the demanding nature of the terrain and the potential for erosion, it is often recommended that groups keep their size to no more than 12 people. Always check local conditions and weather forecasts before you set out, as the mountain environment can change rapidly. Proper navigation skills are essential, though the wall itself can serve as a crucial aid in remote sections.
The Mourne Wall Challenge is notable for tracing the historic Mourne Wall, an impressive dry-stone structure built between 1904 and 1922 to protect Belfast's water supply. This engineering feat winds over numerous mountain summits, including Slieve Donard, Northern Ireland's highest peak, making the route a significant physical and mental test. The dramatic landscapes of the Mournes, including the wall itself, are said to have inspired C.S. Lewis's Narnia books.
3.5
(2)
4
hikers
15.8km
05:19
740m
750m
Embark on a challenging hike through the Mourne Mountains with the Slieve Binnian & Wee Binnian loop. This difficult route spans 9.8 miles (15.8 km) and involves a significant elevation gain of 2436 feet (743 metres), typically taking around 5 hours and 18 minutes to complete. You will encounter varied and demanding terrain, from rough, rocky paths to grassy sections, with some scrambling required. As you ascend, the iconic Mourne Wall often guides your way, leading to expansive views across the Northern Irish landscape.
Given the trail's difficult rating, it is not suitable for inexperienced hikers. You should be prepared for challenging weather conditions, as poor visibility, strong winds, or wet ground can significantly increase the demands of the route. Always carry essential gear, including sturdy footwear, waterproof clothing, a map, and a compass, to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the exposed mountain paths.
From the summit of Slieve Binnian, you are treated to breathtaking panoramic views that include the serene Silent Valley Reservoir, other prominent Mourne peaks, and the distinctive rugged tors known as the "Back Castles." On clear days, you might even spot the Irish Sea and the distant Isle of Man, adding to the sense of accomplishment after conquering this demanding loop.
Details
Informations
Elevation 770 m
Good to know
Family Friendly
yes
Wheelchair access
no
Dog Friendly
yes
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Sunday 21 June
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Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 7.0 km/h
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