J3427 : Slieve Beg from Slieve Donard

Slieve Beg

596m Elevation
44m Prominence
I Country
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J3427 : Slieve Beg from Slieve Donard

Liam Lynch Photo source

Overview

Slieve Beg

Nestled within the stunning Sperrin Mountains, Slieve Beg stands proudly at an elevation of 665 meters, teasing hikers with its moderate challenge and alluring views.

Geology

The mountain's geological composition makes it a fascinating study for enthusiasts. Composed mainly of sandstone and conglomerates, Slieve Beg offers insights into the region's ancient past, including glacial deposits that hint at a time when ice sculpted these very hills. So, if you're a geology buff, be prepared for a treat!

Routes

One of the most frequented routes begins at Leitrim Lodge, a convenient starting point that leads you on a 4.5 km trek to the summit. The path is well-trodden, weaving through grassy landscapes and occasionally rocky outcrops. It typically takes about 2 hours, making it perfectly suited for a morning jaunt. Just remember to keep your eyes peeled for the boggy patches – they have a knack for sneaking up on unsuspecting hikers!

Summit Features

When you finally reach the summit, you’ll be greeted by a cairn marking the peak. The views from here are nothing short of spectacular, showcasing the Mourne Mountains and beyond. Just imagine standing on top with a panoramic perspective – it's worth the climb.

Terrain Type

Expect a mix of grassy and rocky terrain, with some boggy patches that test your agility. Good hiking boots are a must; your feet will thank you after the trek!

Views

From the top, the highlight of your efforts will be the sweeping vistas: on a clear day, the Mourne Mountains, Lough Neagh, and even the distant shores of Scotland can be seen. The best times to enjoy these sights are during spring and autumn, when the air is crisp and clear – and the colours are truly a sight to behold.

Hazards

While the route is generally safe, beware of the slippery boggy areas, especially if rain has recently graced the land. Also, the weather can change at a moment's notice; fog often rolls in, which can impact visibility significantly. So, keep an eye on the sky!

Nearby Summits

Hiking isn’t just about reaching one peak; nearby Slieve Meelmore and Slieve Muck offer fantastic additional challenges and stunning vistas.

Access

You’ll find parking at Leitrim Lodge right off the B47 road, so you won’t have to worry about roadside chaos. If you're relying on public transportation, routes to Magherafelt are your best bet, followed by a quick taxi ride to the lodge. The closest town is Draperstown, just a short drive away, perfect for grabbing a coffee before or after your hike!

Facilities

While the area is quite rural, there are a few cafes in Draperstown for a bit of grub, and during the tourist season, public toilets are often found at Leitrim Lodge.

History

The mountain’s moniker, Slieve Beg, translates to 'little mountain' in Irish, and carries a sense of folklore as well. Rumour has it that this mountain is home to fairies and mythical beings, making it a popular spot for those hoping to catch a glimpse of something otherworldly. Who knows what you might find?

In conclusion, whether you're a novice or a seasoned hiker, Slieve Beg offers a delightful escape into nature. Just remember to pack your sense of adventure along with your waterproofs!

Happy hiking!

Explore routes near Slieve Beg

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

Tollymore Forest Park: River Trail near Newcastle

5.2 km ~2h Moderate

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Newcastle, Co. Down (NI) with Men Walking & Talking

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

9.8 km ~2h 45m Easy

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Castlewellan Forest Park: Lake, Arboretum and Mitchell's Lake Circuit

7.6 km ~2h 45m Moderate

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Route planning notes

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

From the Car Park at Leitrim Lodge

A popular and straightforward route that begins at Leitrim Lodge, winding upwards through grassy paths and enjoys splendid views of the surrounding valleys.

4.5 km ~2 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Dodd Arderin

Elevation

596m

1,955 ft

Prominence

44m

Coordinates

54.1799, -5.9477

J340276

OS Map

29

At the Summit

The summit of Slieve Beg features a notable cairn marking the highest point, along with breathtaking views that often leave visitors speechless - and probably out of breath too!

Terrain & Geology

Grassy rocky and some boggy patches; sturdy footwear is strongly recommended.

The slopes are primarily made up of sandstone and conglomerates, which provide a stunning contrast to the lush green of the surrounding hills. The area also features some glacial deposits, offering a glimpse into the geological history of this part of Northern Ireland.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, one can see the distant Mourne Mountains, Lough Neagh, and on a clear day, even the shores of Scotland peek through the horizon.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Slieve Beg' stems from the Irish 'Sliabh Beag', meaning 'little mountain', which is a fitting description.

Historical Significance

This mountain holds significance in local folklore, often regarded as a haunt for fairies and other mythical creatures.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is a car park at Leitrim Lodge off the B47 road, providing ample parking space and a starting point for hikes.

Public Transport

Accessible via public transport routes that run to Magherafelt, with subsequent taxi services available to reach the Leitrim Lodge.

Nearby Facilities

A few local cafes can be found in Draperstown, and public toilets are often available at the Leitrim Lodge during peak tourist season.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Boggy sections can be slippery especially after rain, and fog can roll in quickly, reducing visibility.

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 Slieve Beg?

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

Are there other walkers around Slieve Beg?

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 Slieve Beg search or of course create your own walk for Slieve Beg

Can I organise a walk to Slieve Beg?

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 Slieve Beg.

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 Slieve Beg?

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 Slieve Beg here

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

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Location

Slieve Beg location map

Grid reference: J340276

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