Clogher Beg Trail

Clogher Beg Trail is a short, easy point-to-point walk above the lakeshore in County Sligo. The route covers 1.2 km / 0.7 mi and takes about 14 minutes, making it a good choice for a brief outing rather than a full hike. Although the distance is modest, it still gives a sense of the wooded Lough Gill shoreline, with the trail descending overall from its high point of 73 m / 241 ft and losing 65 m / 213 ft by the end.

The route

The trail runs downhill overall on a gentle line toward the lake, with only 6 m / 20 ft of climbing along the way. It follows gravel and forest paths through woodland, then reaches the shore of Lough Gill. This is a straightforward walk, but because it is a point-to-point route, walkers should plan how they will return from the finish.

Getting there

The walk lies east of Hazelwood and near St Angela’s, on the Lough Gill side of Sligo. The usual access is from a small roadside parking area beside the trail entrance, where a kissing gate leads onto the path. From Sligo town, the approach is along the road toward Dromahair before turning for St Angela’s and continuing on the minor road beyond the college. Public transport in Sligo town can help with the approach, but the final access is best suited to drivers or anyone arranging a lift.

Highlights along the way

The main attraction is the setting above Lough Gill, one of Sligo’s best-known lakes. The path passes through quiet woodland before opening to lake views, and a junction near the shore links with the nearby Clogherevagh Walk for anyone exploring more of this corner of the lakeside. Even on a very short route, the mix of trees, shoreline and changing views gives the walk a distinct sense of place.

History and landscape

The broader Lough Gill landscape is also known for its wooded shores and sheltered inlets, which give this short trail its calm, enclosed character.

Terrain and preparation

This is an easy walk, but the forest setting means the surface can still be uneven or damp after wet weather. Sturdy shoes are sensible for the gravel and woodland paths. Because the route is short and mostly descending, it suits walkers looking for a quick leg-stretch, a gentle family outing, or a brief stop while exploring the wider Lough Gill area.