O2312 : Great Sugar Loaf (south west)

Great Sugar Loaf

501m Elevation
228m Prominence
I Country
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O2312 : Great Sugar Loaf (south west)

Carroll Pierce Photo source

Explore routes near Great Sugar Loaf

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.

Ridge Route from Kilmacanogue

A popular and well-marked trail that starts from Kilmacanogue, offering stunning views as you ascend the slopes of the hill.

5 km ~2 hours Moderate

Woodland Trail from the West

This route meanders through scenic woodlands before climbing to a rocky outcrop near the summit, nested in the beautiful Wicklow Forest.

4.5 km ~1.5 hours Easy
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Dodd Arderin

Elevation

501m

1,644 ft

Prominence

228m

Coordinates

53.1542, -6.1505

O237130

OS Map

56

At the Summit

The summit features a prominent stone cairn and a magnificent view of the surrounding landscape. A trig point is also located nearby, ideal for those seeking to snap the perfect summit selfie.

Terrain & Geology

Grassy with rocky outcrops offering a range of pathways to explore.

The Great Sugar Loaf is a volcanic plug, formed from a mixture of ancient lava and sediment, giving it a unique conical shape. Its geological composition offers a fascinating glimpse into the volcanic activity of the past.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, hikers can catch sight of the Irish Sea, Dublin Bay, and the distant peaks of the Wicklow Mountains, including the famous Lugnaquilla.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Sugar Loaf' originates from its distinctive shape that resembles a sugar loaf from years gone by.

Historical Significance

The mountain has been an important feature in local culture and folklore, often associated with various local legends about ancient inhabitants and nature spirits.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Parking is available at the bottom of the Kilmacanogue route, with enough space for several cars. Arrive early on weekends to grab a spot!

Public Transport

Buses operate from Dublin to Kilmacanogue, with the closest bus stop a short walk from the trailhead.

Nearby Facilities

There are no facilities directly on the mountain; however, Kilmacanogue has local cafés and pubs perfect for a post-hike pint or bite to eat.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Steep sections on some trails, uneven terrain, and potential weather changes. Ensure to bring waterproof clothing!

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 Great Sugar Loaf?

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

Are there other walkers around Great Sugar Loaf?

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 Great Sugar Loaf search or of course create your own walk for Great Sugar Loaf

Can I organise a walk to Great Sugar Loaf?

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 Great Sugar Loaf.

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 Great Sugar Loaf?

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 Great Sugar Loaf 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

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: O237130

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Slieve Gullion

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