The Beast
Some refer to Slieve Carr as "The Beast", and a quick look at the map - sheet 23 - revels why. The summit is around 14.5 km from the nearest carpark to the south and even longer from the north.
Those of a brave disposition may cry 'but surely cutting east after Knocklettercuss via Maumykelly to Slieve Carr's north ridge would give a shorter route'. On the map yes, but look at that first picture above again, that lovely light green shading on the map ( you know, the colour of Healy's shirt when he scored against England at Windsor Park) that's what it represents in Mayo, Bog and lots of it.
We climbed Slieve Carr from the south, via The Bangor Trail from Srahmore Lodge, Nephin Beg's south top. Nephin Beg, past Scardaum Lough, Corslieve to the large summit cairn of Slieve Carr. Whilst this gives a fine & long day route, to do it real justice a full traverse is what is required though.
So, starting from Bangor, that's the one in North Mayo not North Wales or Co. Down N.I., follow the Bangor Trail south till Slieve Alp. Then climb Tawnyanruddia & double back to Slieve Carr, descend steeply via Corslieve and down back onto the Bangor Trail, of course including Nephin Beg in the traverse would make a fine route a great route.
Once on the Bangor Trail again, follow it south where after crossing a second bridge it meets the Western Way by a bothy. From here you can either follow the Bangor Trail south on minor roads and one v.busy main road to Newport for food and a pint or two.
However, with work being carried out on a linear walking route between Newport & Mulranny, it should be possible within the next year to join this & follow it west along the lower slopes of the Nephin Beg range, making a good 2-3 backpack from Bangor, with no road walking.
So leave the lakes to the tourists, north Wales to the rock-jocks and head west for next years pre-challenge walk & some proper Guinness.
Labels: Walks and Routes