Art’s Lough Loop

A complete closed loop from Baravore at the head of Glenmalure, climbing to Art's Lough and circling it before returning by the same approach. Total visitor traversal is 5.5 miles (about 8.9 km). Expect roughly 1,286 ft of climb and about 3 to 3.5 hours (3.25 hours is a fair planning figure).

• Cross the Avonbeg access area at Baravore and pass through the gate.
• Pass the Baravore mine remains and start climbing on the Mine Path and forest road.
• Follow the forest road zigzags and bear left at the first fork.
• Continue as the road narrows and turns rocky and muddy, then leaves the trees.
• Cross open boggy upland and meadow, watching the tree line for your bearings, to reach the lough.
• Circle Art's Lough on rough open ground, then descend beside the right-hand fence and rejoin the approach back to the car park.

Moderate overall, 6 out of 10. The forest-road climb is straightforward walking; the open section is where the effort sits. Ground is boggy, tussocky and uneven, sheep-trodden in places, with a small stream and gorge crossing to negotiate. The fence-side descent is often slippery and muddy after rain, and the whole open part feels harder in wet weather. Boots with grip and legs that do not mind rough ground are the honest requirement.

This is not a maintained or waymarked trail. The upper loop crosses open ground where the line on a map does not always correspond to a reliable visible trodden path underfoot, and at least one section should be treated as having no dependable route on the ground. Carry a map and compass or GPS and know how to use them, especially if cloud drops onto the tops. If you would rather keep it simple, the shorter out-and-back to the lough is the easier option; the Lugnaquilla routes from the same glen are substantially more demanding.

Start from the Baravore car park on the Glen Road at the head of Glenmalure, with the walk beginning on the access track just beyond. Access is free and recurring, with around 50 car spaces reported. Roadside overflow is tight and should not be counted on, so arriving with a plan B in mind is sensible. No separate permit was established for this route. Dogs must be on a lead at all times under National Park guidance.