A quiet Coillte recreation forest on the slopes of Black Mountain (506m), with waymarked woodland trails, standing stones and views over the Cooley Peninsula — rarely crowded and dog-friendly.
The short, waymarked 1.3km loop (red markers, moderate) is the easiest way to see the forest. It is mainly commercial woodland, with standing stones just a short detour off the route. Expect mucky patches after rain — bring decent footwear.
From the car park a longer circular route of roughly 8.5km / 3 hours climbs steeply at first, then follows gravel forest tracks to clearings with views over the surrounding countryside. Take the left turn about 25 minutes in or you will miss the upper section.
Two long-distance waymarked routes cross the forest. The Táin Trail enters near Curralhir Bridge and continues over the mountains to Omeath on Carlingford Lough, while the Ring of Gullion route is also accessible from the woods.
Several forest roads and tracks rise steeply to the 506m summit of Black Mountain for broad views over Louth and the Cooley Peninsula. Some minor trails may be closed while storm damage is cleared, so follow on-site signage.
The forest is rich in archaeological features including standing stones, old bridges and driving roads. There is a picnic area beside the car park with benches, and the forest is popular with dog walkers.
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