Walking In Sligo

Walking in Sligo

Free Guided Walking Tours

The Free Guided Walking Tours courtesy of Sligo Tourist Development Association commence on Wednesday,  2nd July and run to 27 September (Wednesday to Saturday inclusive).   More Information

General Walking Information

​Sligo offers a diverse array of walking trails that cater to various interests and fitness levels. Here are the top six notable trails around Sligo City:​

1. Knocknarea Trail

• Length & Duration: Approximately 2.4 km, taking about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete.​

• Difficulty: Strenuous​

• Highlights: This trail leads to the summit of Knocknarea Mountain, where you can visit the legendary Queen Maeve’s Cairn. The ascent offers panoramic views of Sligo Bay and the surrounding countryside.

2. Benbulben Forest Walk

• Length & Duration: Approximately 5.5 km, requiring about 1.5 hours.​

• Difficulty: Easy​

• Highlights: Situated at the base of the iconic Benbulben Mountain, this looped trail meanders through serene forests and open clearings, providing stunning vistas of the mountain and Donegal Bay.

3. The Devil’s Chimney (Sruth in Aghaidh an Aird)

• Length & Duration: A 1.2 km looped walk, taking about 1 hour

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Highlights: Home to Ireland’s tallest waterfall, this trail is particularly captivating after rainfall when the waterfall is most active. The path offers scenic views of Glencar Lough and the surrounding valley.

4. Hazelwood Forest Walk

• Length & Duration: Approximately 3 km, taking around 1 hour.​

• Difficulty: Easy​

• Highlights: Located on the shores of Lough Gill, this looped trail winds through ancient woodlands adorned with sculptures. The walk offers tranquil lake views and opportunities to spot local wildlife.

5. Union Wood

• Length & Duration: Varies from 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the chosen path.​

• Difficulty: Easy

• Highlights: This expansive woodland area features multiple trails that pass through diverse habitats, including mixed forests and wetlands. It’s an excellent spot for birdwatching and immersing oneself in nature. ​

6. Sligo Way

• Length & Duration: A long-distance trail spanning 78 km, typically completed over several days

• Difficulty: Strenuous​

• Highlights: Starting at Lough Talt and traversing the Ox Mountains towards Dromahair, this trail offers a comprehensive experience of Sligo’s varied landscapes, from lakeshores to mountainous terrains.

For more detailed information on these and other trails, you can visit Sligo Walks, a comprehensive resource dedicated to walking routes in the region.​

Stay With Us

When Visiting Sligo come stay with us here at the Sligo City Hotel, we would love to welcome you and make your trip to Sligo a great one.  We have great rates available and a very warm welcome awaits you.