Brockagh Mountain

A 10.61 km (6.59 mi) round-trip out-and-back from the roadside at Brockagh Lane near Laragh, climbing over Brockagh Mountain SE Top to the broad summit at about 550 m, then retracing the same line. Budget around 3.75 hours, with 3.5 to 4 hours being the realistic window. We rate it 6 out of 10: moderate to strenuous, mostly because the climb is long and steady rather than technical.

You start low, around 179 m, on a gravel forest track that eases you into the gradient under trees. Connected paths link upward out of the woodland and onto open ground, where the surface turns to heather and rough upland grass. The SE Top comes first and already gives you the view, then the ground broadens and flattens toward the main summit. The descent is the same corridor in reverse, which makes route-finding easier on the way down and gives you the Glendalough panorama in front of you for most of it.

Carry enough water for the whole route, out and back.

• The path is uneven above the forest, with wet or boggy patches likely after rain.
• Boots with real grip make a difference; trainers will not.
• The summit and upper slope are fully exposed to wind and weather, so carry a layer even on a mild day.
• The route is unmarked. In mist the open ground looks the same in every direction, so know how to follow your line and be willing to turn back.

Access is roadside near Laragh, and parking is limited. Park fully off the road, leave local access clear, and be prepared to come back another time if there is no safe space. Dogs are welcome but must stay on a leash for the whole walk.

The Spinc trails are the better call if you want marked paths and a more developed visitor experience, especially in poor visibility. Brockagh is quieter and more open, and less forgiving when the cloud is down. Note also that the Brockagh Red and Blue Loops are separate waymarked routes from a different starting point, not this walk.