Slieve Donard GuideGet prepared

Slieve Donard,
from sea to summit.

Plan the Glen River climb, recognise the landmarks, and discover the stories of Northern Ireland’s highest mountain.

Explore the climbPlan your day
The Mourne Wall and mountains seen from Donard
The Mourne Wall, seen from Donard towards Commedagh. Photo credit
01

Walk the Glen River route

A detailed route guide, with key landmarks and what to expect.

View the route
02

Decide what to bring

Essential kit, clothing and practical advice for your day.

See the packing guide
03

Find your way to Newcastle

Travel options, parking and useful local information.

Plan your journey

A climb with a story at every turn.

The Glen River in Donard Wood
The Glen River in Donard Wood. Photo credit

From the first river crossing to the final steep pull beside the Wall, get to know the mountain before you set off.

  1. 01

    Woodland & the Glen River

    Follow the changing character of the valley.

  2. 02

    The valley & the ice house

    Discover a small building with a different mountain story.

  3. 03

    The saddle, Wall & summit

    Understand the steep finish and the return ahead.

Explore all the stages

More than
a summit.

Cairns, saints & surveyors

People, places and the stories that shaped Slieve Donard.

Granite, water & mountain life

The rock, the river and the living ground beside the path.

Irish County High Points - Log Book and Journal coverMourne Mountains Log Book and Journal coverMountain Logbook cover

Keep the mountain with you.

Record the walk, the weather and the moments you want to remember in Niall O’Rourke’s mountain journals.

Look inside the journals

Authentic sample pages. Paperback editions on Amazon.

Make the day
your own.

Start with the route. Check the conditions. Leave time to come back.

Build your day checklist