G6946 : View towards Ben Bulbin from Slievemore, Dartry Mountains

Benbulbin [Binn Ghulbain]

526m Elevation
64m Prominence
I Country
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G6946 : View towards Ben Bulbin from Slievemore, Dartry Mountains

Colin Park Photo source

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Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

Gortarowey Forest Walk

This popular route begins at the Gortarowey Forest car park, located on the northern slopes of Benbulbin. The walk takes you through a well-maintained forest path, offering spectacular views of Benbulbin's dramatic cliffs. The route loops around the forest and provides several viewpoints overlooking Donegal Bay and the surrounding countryside. It’s a gentle introduction to the area with minimal elevation gain.

6.5 km ~2 hours Easy

Benbulbin Summit via Luke’s Bridge

This is the most well-known and direct ascent of Benbulbin. Starting from Luke’s Bridge (Grid Ref: G6920046300), the route follows a faint trail that navigates the grassy slopes and steepens as you approach the summit. The path can be boggy in places and requires care near the top due to the dramatic cliffs. Once at the summit plateau, you are rewarded with panoramic views of Counties Sligo, Donegal, and beyond.

7 km ~3 hours Moderate

Benbulbin and King’s Mountain Circuit

This circular route combines an ascent of Benbulbin with King’s Mountain, offering a more extensive exploration of the Dartry Mountains. Starting at Luke’s Bridge, the trail climbs Benbulbin first before descending slightly to connect with King’s Mountain. The route involves navigating open mountain terrain and is best suited to experienced walkers. The views from both summits are breathtaking, and the descent takes you back through scenic valleys.

12 km ~5 hours Hard

Benbulbin South Face Approach

This route begins near the Glencar Valley and approaches Benbulbin from its southern side. The trail is less frequented and involves a steady climb up grassy slopes to reach the summit plateau. This approach offers unique perspectives of Benbulbin’s striking southern cliffs, with views over Glencar Lake and the surrounding hills. The descent follows the same path, making it an out-and-back route.

8 km ~4 hours Moderate

Benbulbin North Ridge Traverse

This is a challenging and less-traveled route that begins at the northern side of Benbulbin. It involves a steep ascent up the rugged northern ridges, followed by a traverse across the summit plateau. The descent takes you down the western slopes, providing a full perspective of the mountain’s unique table-top shape. This route requires good navigation skills and is recommended for experienced walkers only.

10 km ~6 hours Hard
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Dodd Arderin

Elevation

526m

1,726 ft

Prominence

64m

Coordinates

54.3645, -8.4746

G692463

OS Map

16

At the Summit

The summit features a cairn commemorating the diverse natural history and ecology of the area, along with stunning panoramic views from the top.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky with grassy patches slightly boggy at lower levels.

Benbulbin is primarily composed of limestone, with its characteristic flat-topped profile resulting from glacial erosion. The karst landscape features intriguing rock formations and is rich in fossils, making it a geological gem.

Views & Scenery

On a clear day, you can see the Atlantic Ocean, the Ox Mountains, and the charming town of Sligo below.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Benbulbin' is derived from the Irish 'Binn Ghulbain', meaning 'the peak of the folding', referring to its distinctive shape.

Historical Significance

Benbulbin is steeped in Irish mythology and folklore, often associated with the mystical tales of the ancient inhabitants of the area.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is a designated parking area at the foot of Benbulbin, accessed via the R287 road, which can accommodate several cars.

Public Transport

Limited public transport is available; check local bus services for connections to Sligo town.

Nearby Facilities

Facilities nearby include quaint cafes in Sligo town, and public toilets can be found in the surrounding villages. Be sure to stop for some tea and scones to refuel!

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Loose rocky sections on the steeper paths, uneven ground, and potentially slippery surfaces after rain.

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Benbulbin [Binn Ghulbain]?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Benbulbin [Binn Ghulbain] through the maps

Are there other walkers around Benbulbin [Binn Ghulbain]?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Benbulbin [Binn Ghulbain] search or of course create your own walk for Benbulbin [Binn Ghulbain]

Can I organise a walk to Benbulbin [Binn Ghulbain]?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Benbulbin [Binn Ghulbain].

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Benbulbin [Binn Ghulbain]?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Benbulbin [Binn Ghulbain] here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

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Location

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: G692463

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