Walk the Queen Maeve Trail
A waymarked loop of roughly 6–8km from the car parks gains 327m, following red arrows up through farmland and forest before circling back around the mountain's northern face.
Knocknarea Cairn
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About
A 327m limestone mountain crowned by a huge stone cairn said to be the burial place of the warrior Queen Maeve. The waymarked Queen Maeve Trail climbs forest, timber steps and a raised boardwalk to 360-degree views of Sligo Bay, Benbulben and the Atlantic.
Things to Do
Cross the 'bog bridge' boardwalk
High on the route, over 500 timber steps and a stepped wooden boardwalk carry the path across boggy ground into the forest. It can be slippery after rain, so take care.
Climb to Queen Maeve's Cairn
The summit is crowned by a vast cairn around 55m across and 10m high, built about 3400 BC and said to hold the warrior Queen Maeve, buried upright and facing her enemies in Ulster. It is a sacred burial place: do not climb on the stones.
Take in the summit views
On a clear day the top opens up views over Sligo and Ballisodare Bay, stretching as far as Nephin in Mayo and the Slieve League sea cliffs in Donegal.
Look for the Neolithic remains
Passage tombs, circular house foundations and an extensive system of earthen banks mark the eastern approach, evidence that the summit was a ritual focus since Neolithic times. The nearby Carrowmore cemetery is a good companion visit.
Pair it with Strandhill
The coastal village about 5 minutes away has cafés, pubs and restaurants plus one of the country's most popular surf beaches — an easy reward after the descent.
Plan Your Visit
- Hours: Open access at all times; no gates, tickets or fixed hours — it is a waymarked mountain trail.
- Admission: Free — no admission charge
- Parking: Free. Main car park at the Glen Road (L3507) trailhead; a smaller Rathcarrick car park on the L3503; and on-road parking at Sligo Rugby Club opposite the Strandhill entrance on non-matchdays.
- Food: Nothing on the trail. Strandhill, about 5 minutes away, has lively cafés, pubs and restaurants.
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