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Start from the main visitor car park and follow the black Mountain Trail through beech woodland and along the Shimna valley. Cross Boundary Bridge, climb through the forest and follow the winding track to Hore’s Bridge. Take the full Drinns loop around the wooded hills and Curraghard viewpoint, then rejoin the Mountain Trail. The return crosses Ivy Bridge and follows the old river drive past Foley’s Bridge and the Shimna Gorge before climbing back to the car park.
Allow four and a half to five hours for this demanding forest circuit. Expect steep gradients, uneven stony paths, tree roots, steps and muddy ground, with riverbanks and edges that are not always fenced. Wear sturdy footwear and carry waterproofs. This is a working forest: obey signs and diversions, keep clear of machinery and fallen trees, and turn back if a path is blocked. Forest Service retains a general storm-damage warning; avoid the woods in strong winds.
The visitor car park has toilets and picnic facilities. A vehicle-entry charge applies, currently £5 for a car. Check the displayed gate closing time before setting out and allow plenty of daylight. The route uses the established outer Drinns forest track and three river bridges.
Route geometry © OpenStreetMap contributors, Open Database Licence: https://www.openstreetmap.org/copyright .
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A few things to know before you make plans.
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