A magical riverside woodland walk in the foothills of the Comeragh Mountains, where the River Mahon tumbles through ancient oak forest — winner of the 2025 RDS Community Woodland Award.
A 5.4 km return (linear) moderate walk following the River Mahon through deciduous woodland, open pasture and conifer forest. Expect 140 m of ascent over 1.5–2 hours. The trail is waymarked with red arrows and follows a woodland path with benches along the way.
The woods are a haven for red squirrels, pine martens, otters and bats. Birdlife includes ring ouzel, buzzard and dipper — the latter often spotted bobbing on rocks in the River Mahon. Autumn brings colourful berries on ash, holly and rowan.
The River Mahon has carved dramatic channels through the rocks, creating waterfalls and cascades that are especially thunderous after heavy rain. The soundscape of rushing water is a constant companion on the trail.
Several picnic tables are located near the entrance at the start of the route, making it an ideal spot for a pre- or post-walk bite with the sound of the river in the background.
Holistic therapist Claire O'Sullivan offers guided outdoor experiences — yoga, mindfulness, sound healing and forest therapy — held among the ancient oaks. Forest Dipping combines yoga with a wild swim in the rock pools beneath the waterfall. Book online in advance.
Just 2.5 km from Crough Wood, on the road to Mahon Falls just after the cattle grid, you'll find the famous Magic Road — a curious optical illusion where cars appear to roll uphill.
Look out for remnants of the 19th-century corn mill at Furraleigh along the River Mahon, including a surviving tunnel and chimney stack — echoes of when the river powered five mills.
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