Drumgoff – Kelly’s Lough

This is an out-and-back hike from the Drumgoff Recreation Area forest car park to Kelly's Lough, totalling 8.9 miles (14.3 km) round trip. Allow about 4.5 to 5 hours at a realistic walking pace, plus time at the lough.

The saved line shows the verified one-way corridor from the car park up to the lough. It is drawn only once, so it is not duplicated for the return. Walkers retrace the same corridor back down to the start, which is why the distance above is roughly double the drawn length.

From the car park the way begins on forest roads that climb steadily away from the valley. Higher up, sections of boardwalk and constructed path carry the route across softer upland ground. The final stage leaves the easier surfaces behind: the ground turns boggy as you near the lough, and the last ten minutes or so is a steep, rough, bouldery ascent over wet ground. Kelly's Lough sits in a quiet hollow, with open mountain slopes rising around it. The return is the same sequence in reverse.

Rate this moderate to demanding because of the sustained climb, the boggy stretches, and the short rough scramble at the end rather than any single technical obstacle. Footing varies from firm forest road to boardwalk, then to wet peat and loose rock. Waterproof boots with good grip make a noticeable difference, and the final pull needs care in both directions.

The start is the Drumgoff forest car park set above the road, reached from the Military Road south of Drumgoff Cross Roads. Coming from the Laragh or Glendalough direction, it lies roughly 3 km beyond the crossroads. Park at the forest car park rather than on the roadside.

This is remote upland country, so come equipped. Bring boots, rain gear, a map and compass, and enough food and water for the full round trip. Travelling with a companion is strongly advised rather than going alone. Choose a dry, clear day if you can, since wet weather makes the bog and the rocky final ascent harder, and set out early enough to complete the walk in daylight.