Slieve Doan – Hare's Gap loop from Kilkeel River

Hiking trails & Routes

Slieve Doan – Hare's Gap loop from Kilkeel River

Hard

hikers

Slieve Doan – Hare's Gap loop from Kilkeel River

07:33

23.9km

860m

Hiking

Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily walkable paths. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: September 9, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

Mourne AONB

Waypoints

Start point

Bus stop

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7.24 km

Sandy beach at Lough Shanna

Highlight • Lake

It's both a surprise and a delight to find a sandy beach high up in the mountains. This small shore, formed by the beautiful Lough Shanna, makes a perfect spot …

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8.60 km

Slieve Doan

Highlight • Climb

Slieve Doan is an impressive peak that sits amongst some of the highest mountains in Northern Ireland. It reaches a height of 562m and provides breathtaking 360-degree views across the …

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12.2 km

Slieve Bearnagh

Highlight • Viewpoint

Slieve Bearnagh from the Irish “Sliabh Bearna” meaning “Gapped Mountain” gets its name from its two giant rocky tors and the col lying between them. It is the 4th highest …

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13.5 km

Hare's Gap

Highlight • Trail

Hare's Gap is the most beautiful, and dramatic, mountain pass in the whole of the Mournes mountain range. It was once a smugglers hotspot, with people often carrying contraband, such …

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15.3 km

Ben Crom Rock Pools

Highlight • Natural Monument

Series of rock pools as the river flows into the reservoir. Beautiful spot to cool off during a hike!

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16.6 km

Ben Crom Reservoir

Lake

17.9 km

Silent Valley Reservoir Road

Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint

If you prefer to stay on the tarmac for your hikes then this one’s for you!
Lovely views of the reservoir all the way along.

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22.1 km

Silent Valley Reservoir

Highlight • Viewpoint

Silent Valley Reservoir in the heart of the Mourne Mountains is one of the most beautiful places in Northern Ireland.

Situated in the Mourne Mountains AONB near Kilkeel, Silent Valley …

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23.0 km

The Duck Pond feels like a calm secret waiting to be discovered. Recommended by hikers and tucked into a protected area, it’s a gentle spot where water glimmers among reeds and mountains frame the quiet mirror below.

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