Shakhill to Barnaslingan Woods running loop

Important Update: Barnaslingan Wood and its car park are currently closed until further notice due to significant storm damage from Storm Darragh in December 2024. Many trees are down and trails are blocked. Coillte is assessing the damage before reopening. Please check local updates before planning your visit.

Yes, while Barnaslingan Wood is closed, nearby forests like Ticknock and Carrickgollogan offer excellent alternative running trails. These areas provide similar woodland experiences and scenic views in the Dublin Mountains.

This running loop is generally considered moderate. While some sections feature easy forest pathways, the overall route includes varied terrain and an elevation gain of nearly 290 meters, requiring a good level of fitness for the full 11.7 km distance.

The terrain is predominantly woodland paths, often through dense pine forests. You'll also encounter open areas of rock and grass, especially on sections like the Scalp Lookout Trail. The landscape features numerous granite outcrops and boulders, particularly on the eastern side of The Scalp.

The loop offers several picturesque sights. You can enjoy the serene atmosphere of Barnaslingan Wood, dramatic views from Carrickgollogan Hill, and the historic Ballycorus Leadmine Chimney. The Scalp, a unique geological crevice, provides breathtaking views of the Great Sugar Loaf, Tonduff, and Maulin's peaks, and sometimes even Dublin Bay and Howth Head.

Yes, this running loop integrates with a network of paths. A significant portion of the route follows sections of the Dublin Mountains Way. You'll also encounter parts of the Rathmichael Walk, Barnaslingan - Scalp Lookout Trail, and Barnaslingan - Pine loop trail.

Generally, trails in the Dublin Mountains are dog-friendly, but dogs must be kept on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other trail users. Always clean up after your dog.

Assuming the trails are open, spring and autumn offer pleasant running conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can also be great, but be prepared for more people. Winter runs are possible, but trails can be muddy or icy, and daylight hours are shorter.

No, there are typically no permits or entrance fees required to access the trails within the Dublin Mountains, including this running loop. However, always check for any specific local notices or temporary restrictions.

While Barnaslingan Wood's car park is currently closed, when open, it provides direct access. Alternatively, you might find parking options near Shankill or other access points to the Dublin Mountains Way, which forms a significant part of this loop. Always check local signage for parking regulations.

Public transport options to the general area around Shankill and Barnaslingan Wood are available. You can typically reach Shankill via DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) or Dublin Bus services. From Shankill, you may need to walk or take a connecting bus to reach specific trailheads, but direct access to the currently closed Barnaslingan Wood car park via public transport might be limited.