G5478 : Donegal: Slieve League Summit Triangulation Pillar

Slieve League [Sliabh Liag]

596m Elevation
475m Prominence
I Country

Good walks are even better shared.

G5478 : Donegal: Slieve League Summit Triangulation Pillar

Michael Murtagh Photo source

Explore routes near Slieve League [Sliabh Liag]

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.

Slieve League Pilgrim's Path

This is the most well-known route to Slieve League, starting from the Bunglas Viewpoint car park. The trail follows a clear path up the mountain, offering breathtaking views of the sea cliffs and Donegal Bay. It is a steady ascent with some rocky sections but is manageable for most walkers.

5.5 km ~3 hours Moderate

One Man's Pass Circuit

This iconic route begins at the Bunglas Viewpoint and takes walkers along the ridge known as 'One Man's Pass'. It is a more challenging route with exposed sections and requires a good head for heights, but the panoramic views of the cliffs and Atlantic Ocean are a spectacular reward.

6.5 km ~4 hours Challenging

Teelin to Slieve League Linear Walk

Starting in the village of Teelin, this route follows a well-trodden path through bogland and rugged terrain to reach the summit of Slieve League. This is an excellent option for those who want a longer and more immersive experience of the area.

12 km ~5 hours Moderate

Bunglas Viewpoint to Eagle’s Nest

This shorter route is perfect for those who want to experience the beauty of Slieve League without committing to the full ascent. It leads from the Bunglas Viewpoint to a dramatic outcrop known as the Eagle’s Nest, offering stunning views of the cliffs along the way.

3 km ~1.5 hours Easy

Slieve League Coastal Route

This alternative route explores the lower coastal paths around Slieve League, providing a different perspective of the cliffs. The path features rugged terrain and stunning sea views, making it an excellent option for photographers and those who prefer a less steep route.

8 km ~3.5 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Dodd Arderin

Elevation

596m

1,957 ft

Prominence

475m

Coordinates

54.6515, -8.7081

G543783

OS Map

10

At the Summit

The summit features a large cairn, offering a dramatic backdrop along with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding countryside.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky and steep with grassy patches providing a variety of hiking experiences.

Primarily composed of schist and quartzite, Slieve League showcases striking cliffs and rugged terrain, formed through millennia of geological processes that included tectonic uplift and erosion.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, hikers can gaze upon the Slieve League Cliffs, Donegal Bay, and the distant Sligo Mountains on a clear day.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Sliabh Liag' translates to 'Mountain of the Flagstone' in Irish, reflecting the rocky terrain.

Historical Significance

Historically, Slieve League was a pilgrimage site, and it holds cultural importance for the local Gaelic communities.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

The Slieve League Visitor Centre has ample parking available, with clear signs leading to the main trails.

Public Transport

Local buses operate from Donegal Town, but it's advisable to check schedules in advance due to limited services.

Nearby Facilities

The Slieve League Visitor Centre offers a café, restrooms, and informative displays about the geology and ecology of the area.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Steep drops along the cliffs, unpredictable weather conditions, and occasionally muddy or loose footing on trails.

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 League [Sliabh Liag]?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Slieve League [Sliabh Liag] through the maps

Are there other walkers around Slieve League [Sliabh Liag]?

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 League [Sliabh Liag] search or of course create your own walk for Slieve League [Sliabh Liag]

Can I organise a walk to Slieve League [Sliabh Liag]?

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 League [Sliabh Liag].

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 League [Sliabh Liag]?

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 League [Sliabh Liag] here

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

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