Explore Sligo: Four Scenic and Historic Walking Trails

As the mornings brighten and evenings stretch longer, the opportunity for refreshing walks before work, school, or college becomes even more inviting. With good weather, it’s the perfect time to explore local trails you may have thought about but never tried. Walking is one of the simplest, most enjoyable ways to stay active—free, adaptable to all fitness levels, and packed with benefits for body and mind. Regular walks can boost heart health, strengthen muscles and bones, enhance mood, and even sharpen thinking. Beyond physical gains, walking outdoors deepens our connection with nature, making each step meaningful.

For this guide, we’ve selected four uphill routes around Sligo. These trails not only get the heart pumping but also immerse you in the region’s rich history and archaeology.

1. Keash Hill Trail — Short But Storied Ascent

Located beneath Keshcorran Mountain in south Sligo, the Keash Hill Trail is a compact yet lively climb leading to the Caves of Keash, a site steeped in legend and panoramic views. According to local lore, Cormac Mac Airt, a legendary High King of Ireland, was born in one of these caves. Multiple caves are accessible, though some paths are narrow—exercise caution when moving between them.

Trail Highlights:

Length: 3.4 km return
Steep inclines offer a good cardiovascular challenge
Stunning views over neighboring hills and farmland
A brief, rewarding walk that combines exercise with folklore

2. Knocknashee — Rolling Views and Ancient Echoes

This trail leads hikers to the summit of Knocknashee along a clearly marked path featuring steps and a kissing gate. While relatively short, the climb is steep in places. At the top, walkers are rewarded with a dramatic panorama of south Sligo’s drumlin countryside.

Trail Highlights:

Bronze Age hillfort site at the summit
Passage tombs offering insight into ancient ritual landscapes
On a clear day, views extend to Croagh Patrick in County Mayo, around 80 km away

3. Carrowkeel Walk — Ancient Tombs and Open Horizons

One of Sligo’s oldest routes, the Carrowkeel Walk crosses the uplands of the Bricklieve Mountains to a cluster of megalithic passage tombs. This moderate hike combines archaeology with wide-open scenery.

Starting from a clearly marked roadside gateway, walkers follow a signposted gravel path for a couple of kilometers before turning to reach the tomb area. Sheep may be your only companions along much of the trail.

Trail Highlights:

Explore some of Ireland’s oldest passage tombs, predating even the pyramids
Offers a glimpse into Neolithic life and burial practices
A quieter, less-visited alternative to sites like Newgrange or Carrowmore

4. Gleniff Horseshoe – Benwiskin Trail — Roadside Adventure

Set beneath the peaks of the Dartry Mountains, the Gleniff Horseshoe is a classic Sligo walking experience. The 13.5 km loop takes several hours and passes rolling countryside, dramatic cliffs, and Diarmuid & Gráinne’s Cave.

The fully road-based route ensures a solid walking surface even in wet conditions, with spectacular views of both mountains and the distant sea.

Trail Highlights:

Tied to the Fenian Cycle: Diarmuid and Gráinne’s legendary elopement took place here
Offers a full, immersive outdoor adventure
Scenic landscapes combined with rich mythological heritage

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned walker, these trails promise invigorating exercise, breathtaking views, and fascinating historical insights. Capture your journey, share photos online, and tag Sligo Walks to showcase your adventure. Walking in Sligo isn’t just a pastime—it’s an experience that uplifts body, mind, and spirit.