Ballydermot/Killyguise Loop

The Ballydermot/Killyguise Loop is an easy 3.9 km / 2.4 mi walk in County Kildare. With just 19 m / 62 ft of climbing and a highest point of 89 m / 293 ft, it suits walkers looking for a short outing of about 1 hour on mostly level ground.

The route

This loop starts from the L3001-5 near Kildare and circles on a compact route that stays low throughout, gaining and losing 19 m / 62 ft overall. The shape of the walk makes it easy to follow as a short circuit rather than an out-and-back, and the easy grading reflects the mild terrain and modest distance.

Getting there

The trailhead is reached from the L3001. There is a forest car park and lay-by at the start, making it straightforward to reach by car. Kildare is the nearest locality for services before or after the walk.

Terrain and waymarking

Killinthomas Wood has several signed trails, and this one is marked with red arrows. The woodland has gentle gradients, with picnic tables and short forest paths that make the area popular for relaxed walks. Good everyday walking shoes are usually enough, though forest tracks can still feel damp after wet weather.

Nature and setting

The route explores a section of the wider woodland and peatland landscape. In spring and early summer, Killinthomas Wood is especially known for bluebells and wild garlic, while the mixed woodland adds year-round interest for birdlife and quiet forest walking.