Description
Climbing Benbulben via Ardnaglass Upper (Luke’s Bridge Route)
This route is the long way around to reach the top of Benbulben, but it’s also the one that involves the least steep climbing. Instead of tackling the dramatic cliffs head‑on, you approach the mountain from behind, following a gentler gradient that gradually leads you onto the plateau.
Starting Point: Luke’s Bridge
Drive to Ardnaglass Upper and park at the small pull‑in beside the river, commonly known as Luke’s Bridge. There’s space here for only a couple of cars, so arrive early if you can.
The Approach: Easy, Scenic, and Steady
From the parking area, follow the tarmac road that runs alongside the river. It’s a pleasant, easy start, with the sound of water guiding you uphill. Continue until you reach a small bridge crossing the river.
Cross over, and you’ll pick up a bog road that leads steadily upwards. This section is straightforward and gives you a gentle warm‑up before the real work begins.
Leaving the Track: Into the Bog
At the end of the bog road, the terrain changes. From here, you’ll need to make your way across open bog towards the small river that flows down from the mountain. If you look up, you can usually spot the narrow trail etched along the slope—this is your line of ascent.
The Climb: Narrow, Steep, and Direct
Once you reach the river, the route becomes clear. The path climbs straight up the mountainside, following a narrow track that hugs the slope. It’s steep in places and can be slippery after rain, but it’s never technical.
As you gain height, the gradient eases slightly near the river, giving you a moment to catch your breath before the final push.
On the Plateau: The Home Stretch
When you reach the top of the slope, you’ll find yourself on Benbulben’s broad, windswept plateau. Turn right and follow the edge of the escarpment. The walking here is easy and the views are spectacular—Sligo Bay, the Dartry Mountains, and the Atlantic all open out before you.
Continue along the edge until you reach the true summit of Benbulben, marked by a small cairn.
Note: This walk requires good preparation (weather needs to be good, especially if you have never climbed Benbulben before). Also be mindful that the weather can change rapidly and visibility due to long-hanging clouds or fog can become a problem.
Decent shoes and clothes are also required.
If you are not sure, there are multiple guides who can take you up the mountain.
Distance: 11km
Track: bog road/mountain trails tracks
Ascent: 526m
Visitor facilities: Small Car Park
Starting Point: Luke’s Bridge
Drive to Ardnaglass Upper and park at the small pull‑in beside the river, commonly known as Luke’s Bridge. There’s space here for only a couple of cars, so arrive early if you can.
The Approach: Easy, Scenic, and Steady
From the parking area, follow the tarmac road that runs alongside the river. It’s a pleasant, easy start, with the sound of water guiding you uphill. Continue until you reach a small bridge crossing the river.
Cross over, and you’ll pick up a bog road that leads steadily upwards. This section is straightforward and gives you a gentle warm‑up before the real work begins.
Leaving the Track: Into the Bog
At the end of the bog road, the terrain changes. From here, you’ll need to make your way across open bog towards the small river that flows down from the mountain. If you look up, you can usually spot the narrow trail etched along the slope—this is your line of ascent.
The Climb: Narrow, Steep, and Direct
Once you reach the river, the route becomes clear. The path climbs straight up the mountainside, following a narrow track that hugs the slope. It’s steep in places and can be slippery after rain, but it’s never technical.
As you gain height, the gradient eases slightly near the river, giving you a moment to catch your breath before the final push.
On the Plateau: The Home Stretch
When you reach the top of the slope, you’ll find yourself on Benbulben’s broad, windswept plateau. Turn right and follow the edge of the escarpment. The walking here is easy and the views are spectacular—Sligo Bay, the Dartry Mountains, and the Atlantic all open out before you.
Continue along the edge until you reach the true summit of Benbulben, marked by a small cairn.
Note: This walk requires good preparation (weather needs to be good, especially if you have never climbed Benbulben before). Also be mindful that the weather can change rapidly and visibility due to long-hanging clouds or fog can become a problem.
Decent shoes and clothes are also required.
If you are not sure, there are multiple guides who can take you up the mountain.
Distance: 11km
Track: bog road/mountain trails tracks
Ascent: 526m
Visitor facilities: Small Car Park
Location
Trail Map
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