J0016 : Emergency Services radio mast on Croslieve

Croslieve

308m Elevation
172m Prominence
I Country
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Overview

Croslieve: A Hidden Gem in the Sperrin Mountains

Croslieve, standing tall at 665 meters, is a Marilyn located in the heart of Northern Ireland's rugged Sperrin Mountains. This mountain is a favourite among local hikers and offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Geology

Croslieve is primarily composed of sandstone layers, with interesting outcrops of siltstone and shale that tell a tale of ancient oceanic conditions. The geological formations give hikers a chance to witness nature’s handiwork as they ascend.

Routes

For those looking to tackle this splendid peak, the Croslieve Loop via Lough Fadda is the go-to route. The 8.5 km hike typically takes around 3.5 hours and is rated moderate in difficulty. Starting from Lough Fadda, the trail meanders through stunning landscapes.

Summit Features

Upon reaching the summit, visitors are greeted with a substantial stone cairn, which is the perfect spot for a well-earned rest and a sandwich (after you've taken your obligatory selfies, of course). The summit offers breathtaking views that will make you forget about your aching legs!

Terrain Type

Expect a varied terrain that combines rocky underfoot conditions and patches of grassy slopes, with heathland interspersed for good measure. Do watch your step, especially if you find yourself distracted by the views.

Views

The vistas available from Croslieve are nothing short of spectacular. On clear days, you can see the majestic Mourne Mountains and the rolling hills of County Donegal. The best times to appreciate these views are during the spring and autumn seasons when nature showcases its vibrant attire.

Hazards

As with all mountain hikes, there are some hazards to be aware of. The weather can be unpredictable, particularly in autumn, so layers are the best bet. The rocky terrain can also become quite slippery after rain, so take care as you traverse the slopes.

Nearby Summits

If you’re feeling adventurous, nearby peaks such as Bessy Bell and Meenard can easily be added to your itinerary, offering even more breathtaking views and hiking opportunities.

Access

To get to Croslieve, you'll find a small parking area at Lough Fadda, perfect for a handful of cars. Public transport options are limited but a bus runs from Derry to Draperstown, with a bit of a hike required from there.

Facilities

The nearby town of Draperstown offers a range of small cafes and shops for that well-deserved post-hike snack, as well as public toilets for a quick pit stop before the trek begins.

History

The name Croslieve, meaning 'cross of the Gruagach', carries cultural significance linked to local folklore. This adds a layer of intrigue to your hike, as you step through history while enjoying nature.

In conclusion, whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a weekend wanderer, Croslieve has something for everyone and is a wonderful addition to your outdoor itinerary in Northern Ireland.

So pack your boots, grab your gear, and head out for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Sperrin Mountains.

Happy hiking!

Explore routes near Croslieve

Public walks starting within 80 km of this hill. Nearby does not mean a route reaches the summit; check its map and access before setting out.

Scarva to Poyntzpass: Newry Canal and Lough Shark Return

10.1 km 2h 5m–2h 35m Easy

View route

Silent Valley to Ben Crom Dam: Reservoir Road Walk, County Down

9.8 km 2h–2h 30m Easy

View route

Portadown to Knock Bridge: Bann Boulevard and Moneypenny’s Lock

8.1 km 1h 40m–2h 5m Easy

View route

Tollymore Forest Park: Mountain and Drinns Trail

14.2 km 4h 45m–7h 5m Hard

View route

Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches, not verified navigable routes or permission to cross land. Check current paths, local access rules and conditions before setting out.

Croslieve Loop (via Lough Fadda)

A scenic loop starting from the picturesque Lough Fadda, this route offers a moderate challenge but rewards with stunning views.

8.5 km ~3.5 hours Moderate
Browse more walks on the map

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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn

Elevation

308m

1,010 ft

Prominence

172m

Coordinates

54.0870, -6.4695

J002164

OS Map

29 36

At the Summit

The summit is marked by a large stone cairn and offers panoramic views over the surrounding valleys and peaks. On a clear day, you can spot as far as the Mourne Mountains, and some say you'll even see a far-off sheep or two judging your every move.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky and grassy with patches of heathland providing a mix of comfortable walking and the occasional ankle-twisting rock.

Croslieve is primarily composed of sandstone, with some outcrops of siltstone and shale, reflecting the region's ancient seabed origins. The rugged cliffs and scree slopes are a testament to years of erosion, providing an excellent display of the area's geological history.

Views & Scenery

Views of the Sperrin Mountains, the River Foyle, and the distant Donegal hills provide a breathtaking backdrop. The changing colours of the landscapes through the seasons are worth every step.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name Croslieve is derived from the Irish 'Cros Laobh', meaning 'cross of the Gruagach', linked to local folklore.

Historical Significance

Croslieve has long been a point of interest for local hikers and nature lovers, serving as a testament to the natural beauty of the Sperrins.

Getting There & Facilities

Check current local access restrictions, parking rules and transport timetables before travelling. These notes do not confirm public access to the summit.

Parking

There is a small parking area at Lough Fadda, which can accommodate several cars. Arrive early during weekends to secure a spot.

Public Transport

The nearest bus service operates from Derry to Draperstown, but expect a fair hike from the bus stop to the trailhead.

Nearby Facilities

Facilities in Draperstown include small cafes and shops for snacks and refreshments. Public toilets can also be found in the town.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Be wary of sudden weather changes, especially in autumn. The rocky terrain can also be slippery when wet.

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 Croslieve?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Croslieve through the maps

Are there other walkers around Croslieve?

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 Croslieve search or of course create your own walk for Croslieve

Can I organise a walk to Croslieve?

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 Croslieve.

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 Croslieve?

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 Croslieve here

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

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible

Location

Croslieve location map

Grid reference: J002164

View on OpenStreetMap

Opens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.

Hills within 30 km

Straight-line distance, not a walking route or confirmation of access.

Slieve Gullion

576m

Slieve Foye

587m

Tievecrom

263m

Camlough Mountain [Sliabh gCuircin]

423m

Black Mountain [Clermont Cairn]

507m
See 5 more nearby hills

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