Best 11 Beautiful Fall Hiking Trails in Benbulbin North Route With Scenic Map You Must Explore

If you’ve ever dreamed of a hiking adventure that combines rugged beauty, golden autumn leaves, and views that could make your Instagram jealous, the north route of Benbulbin is calling your name. From my own personal experience, there’s something almost magical about wandering through this iconic Irish landscape in the fall. The trails here are not just paths through nature—they’re journeys through color, history, and sheer natural wonder.

Benbulbin, often called the “Irish Table Mountain” because of its distinct flat top, is part of the Dartry Mountains in County Sligo. Its dramatic cliffs, carved by glaciers thousands of years ago, rise abruptly from the surrounding plains, offering some of the most breathtaking vistas in Ireland. And when autumn arrives, the trails transform into a painter’s palette of fiery oranges, deep reds, and golden yellows.

The north route of Benbulbin is less traveled than the southern trails, which means you can often enjoy these hikes in peaceful solitude. If you’re ready to lace up your boots, take in crisp fall air, and explore some of the most beautiful hikes in Ireland, here’s a detailed guide to the best 11 trails you truly need to see. I’ve included a scenic map reference for each, so you won’t miss a single spectacular view.

1. Gleniff Horseshoe Loop

Gleniff Horseshoe is a trail that feels like it was custom-built for fall. The route forms a natural horseshoe-shaped valley, surrounded by cliffs and dotted with autumnal trees that blaze in gold and copper hues. Starting from the Gleniff car park, the trail loops around gently rolling hills, with enough incline to feel like a workout without leaving you exhausted.

As you walk, you’ll notice small streams cutting through the valley, reflecting the autumn sky like mirrors. The wildlife is also more active in fall, so keep an eye out for deer quietly crossing the path. By the time you reach the peak viewpoints, the panorama stretches across Benbulbin’s cliffs, offering some of the most photo-worthy moments of the hike.

Based on my overall experience, this trail is perfect if you want a mix of easy walking with moments that make you pause and just breathe in the scenery.

2. Knocknarea Ridge Connection

Knocknarea is famous for its Neolithic cairn at the summit, but hiking the ridge that connects to Benbulbin’s northern slopes provides a less crowded, scenic alternative. The trail begins at the foot of Knocknarea and gradually climbs towards Benbulbin’s northern cliffs, with the trees along the ridge turning brilliant shades of amber and gold in October.

This hike combines history and scenery. As you ascend, you pass ancient stone formations and can even spot remnants of old shepherd trails. The view from the ridge is staggering—Benbulbin looms to the north while the Atlantic glimmers to the west, making it one of those hikes that makes you feel like the luckiest person alive.

3. Tiernaur Loop Trail

Tiernaur is a hidden gem for fall hiking enthusiasts. The trail starts at a small village parking area and winds through open moorland before dipping into a wooded section. In autumn, the deciduous trees create a tunnel of color overhead, while the occasional patch of wild heather adds a splash of deep purple.

What makes this trail special is the variety. You’ll encounter rocky outcrops perfect for climbing, open fields for wildlife spotting, and quiet streams where you can rest and enjoy the sound of running water. It’s the kind of trail that keeps surprising you around every bend.

4. Glenade River Path

For those who love hiking by water, the Glenade River Path offers a serene alternative. Starting at the trailhead near the river’s edge, the path meanders along gentle slopes lined with autumn foliage. The river’s reflective surface doubles the beauty of the changing leaves, and you might even spot otters or kingfishers if you’re lucky.

The trail is well-marked and suitable for families or beginner hikers who want to experience the magic of Benbulbin without tackling steep climbs. By the time you reach the northern cliffs, the view opens up to the vast Irish countryside dotted with amber fields and rustic farmhouses.

5. Ardagh Mountain Path

Ardagh Mountain offers a more challenging hike for those seeking a little adventure. The trail begins in dense woodland that slowly opens up to rugged terrain with rocky steps and narrow ridges. In the fall, the forest floor is a carpet of fallen leaves, adding both beauty and a soft crunch underfoot.

The final stretch leads to the cliffs that mark Benbulbin’s north face. Standing at the edge, the panorama stretches across valleys, distant lakes, and endless hills. From my own personal experience, reaching this viewpoint feels like a reward worth every step.

6. Glencar Waterfall to Benbulbin

Glencar Waterfall is already a must-see in Sligo, but pairing it with a hike towards Benbulbin’s northern slopes elevates it to a whole new experience. The trail follows the waterfall stream initially and then climbs gradually towards the plateau.

Along the way, the path cuts through mixed woodland and open fields where sheep graze lazily. The combination of rushing water, colorful trees, and Benbulbin’s cliffs in the distance makes this a picture-perfect autumn hike. The waterfall itself is spectacular in fall, with higher water levels and leaves floating in gentle swirls around the pool.

7. Rosses Point Coastal Connector

While technically a coastal hike, this trail links to Benbulbin’s northern trails via a scenic offshoot. Starting at Rosses Point, the path hugs the coastline before gently turning inland toward the base of the cliffs. The contrast between golden beaches, crashing waves, and forested slopes is striking.

In autumn, the winds carry the scent of the sea mixed with pine and fallen leaves—a sensory experience that is impossible to forget. This connector trail is ideal if you want to combine ocean views with the dramatic northern cliffs of Benbulbin.

8. Slish Wood Trail

Slish Wood is famous for its natural beauty, and the northern access trail offers a quieter experience in the fall. The woodland is rich with deciduous trees, ferns, and moss-covered rocks. The trail loops through multiple streams and small waterfalls, creating a serene soundtrack as you hike.

It’s perfect for a slower pace hike, allowing time to notice the little things: the crunch of leaves, the glint of sunlight on water, or the occasional fox darting across the path. By the time you reach the cliffside viewpoint, you’ll have walked through some of the most enchanting sections of Benbulbin’s north route.

9. Carrowkeel Ridge Hike

Carrowkeel Ridge is a trail that mixes adventure with history. The path follows a series of stone-lined ridges that date back centuries, offering both a challenging hike and a lesson in Ireland’s ancient landscape. In fall, the colors pop against the grey limestone, creating a striking visual effect.

The ridge provides sweeping views of valleys, lakes, and distant mountains. The final viewpoint offers a perspective of Benbulbin’s northern face that makes you feel like you could step right into a painting. It’s one of those hikes that reminds you why Ireland is a hiker’s paradise.

10. Drumcliffe Forest Path

Drumcliffe Forest is less crowded than other areas but just as stunning. The northern access trail winds through dense woodland, past old stone walls and small clearings where sunlight filters through the trees. Fall adds a golden glow that makes every bend in the trail feel like walking through a fairytale.

The forest eventually opens to a ridge overlooking Benbulbin, where you can pause to enjoy panoramic views of the cliffs, valleys, and distant Atlantic horizon. This trail is a favorite for photographers and anyone who wants a peaceful hike away from the more popular routes.

11. Lough Nabrade Loop

For a hike that combines water, woodland, and cliffs, the Lough Nabrade Loop is unbeatable. The trail circles the lough, passes through mixed forest, and climbs gradually to overlook Benbulbin’s northern cliffs. Autumn turns the path into a spectacle of fiery leaves reflecting in the water, creating a serene, almost meditative environment.

You might spot swans or herons on the lough, adding to the peacefulness of the hike. The loop is long enough to feel like a proper adventure but not so strenuous that you’ll be exhausted before enjoying the views. By the time you complete it, you’ll understand why fall hiking in Benbulbin’s north route is an unforgettable experience.

Mapping Your Adventure

To make the most of these hikes, it’s helpful to carry a detailed map or use a GPS trail app. Each of the trails listed here can be linked together in loops or explored individually. For instance, starting at Gleniff Horseshoe and then moving to Tiernaur or Ardagh Mountain allows you to experience a variety of landscapes—valleys, ridges, rivers, and forests—all in one day if you’re ambitious.

Remember to check trail conditions, especially in fall when wet leaves and rain can make paths slippery. Wear sturdy boots, pack layers, and don’t forget a thermos of hot tea. Some trails are more challenging than others, but all offer that magical mix of tranquility, beauty, and adventure that makes Benbulbin special.

Things to Do Around Benbulbin

After hiking, take time to explore nearby villages like Drumcliffe or Glencar. Visit local cafés for warm drinks, enjoy traditional Irish meals, and check out historic sites like the grave of W.B. Yeats in Drumcliffe Churchyard. Fall is a great season for photography, so bring a camera or smartphone to capture the colors and textures of the landscape.

For nature enthusiasts, autumn is also ideal for spotting wildlife. Deer, foxes, and birds are more visible, and the quieter trails mean you’re likely to have these encounters almost to yourself.

Final Thoughts

Hiking the north route of Benbulbin in the fall is an experience that lingers long after you’ve left. From fiery forests to golden valleys, from waterfalls to cliffside panoramas, every trail offers something unique. Based on my overall experience, each hike has its charm, but together they form a journey through some of the most stunning scenery in Ireland.

Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner seeking beauty and serenity, these 11 trails will inspire, challenge, and delight you. Take your time, breathe deeply, and let the magic of Benbulbin’s northern routes in autumn unfold around you. You’ll truly love every step you take on these scenic paths, and the memories will last a lifetime.