The best hikes from bus stations around Lough Gill
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1,321
hikers
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Bus station hiking trails around Lough Gill, nestled in County Sligo, Ireland, offer a diverse landscape for outdoor activities. The region is characterized by its clear lake, approximately 5 miles (8 km) long, surrounded by woodlands such as Hazelwood and Slish Wood. Rolling hills and varied forest paths provide a range of terrain for hikers. The area features a mix of easy, accessible routes and longer, more challenging paths through natural landscapes.
Best bus station hiking trails around Lough Gill
- The most popular bus station hiking route is Sligo Courthouse – Sligo Abbey loop from Sligo, a 3.9 miles (6.3 km) trail that takes 1 hour 40 minutes to complete. This easy route explores urban and historical landmarks in Sligo.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Lough Gill on the Sligo Way – Slishwood Forest loop from Dromahair, a moderate 10.9 miles (17.5 km) path. This trail offers views of Lough Gill and passes through Slishwood Forest.
- Local hikers also love the Hyde Bridge – Garavogue Riverside Walk loop from Sligo, a 3.0 miles (4.9 km) trail leading through riverside scenery, often completed in about 1 hour 15 minutes.
- Hiking around Lough Gill is defined by its clear lake, ancient woodlands, and gentle hills. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy riverside strolls to moderate forest loops.
- The routes in Lough Gill are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 190 reviews. More than 1,100 hikers have used komoot to explore Lough Gill's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 22, 2026
3.8
(4)
17
hikers
6.26km
01:39
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(4)
16
hikers
17.5km
04:37
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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8
hikers
2.41km
00:37
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
19
hikers
4.85km
01:14
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
1
hikers
6.34km
01:37
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Central bridge over the Garavogue River, named after Douglas Hyde. A recognizable landmark in the heart of Sligo, with views of the river and direct access to the Yeats Memorial Building and the city's main streets.
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Neo-Gothic courthouse from 1878 on Teeling Street, designed by James Rawson Carroll. The sandstone facade with turrets and pointed arches gives the building a strikingly stately character. A rare example of Victorian architecture outside of Dublin.
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This Dominican priory, the city's oldest monument, built in the 13th century by Maurice Fitzgerald, has a choir and the remains of a stone rood screen with three arches from that period. Heavily damaged by fire, the abbey received additions in the 15th century, such as the cloister, the nave, the tower, and especially the most beautiful element of the building: the sarcophagus altar, carved with nine panels, unique in its kind in Ireland.
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Creevelea Abbey is an early 16th-century Franciscan friary and National Monument located in Dromahair. While just over the border from County Sligo in County Leitrim, it is an important monument signalling the end (or start) of the Sligo Way. While it is in ruins, Creevelea Abbey is still in use as a grave yard.
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This very impressive, opulent French Gothic courthouse, designed by Rawson Carroll, is well preserved and is not only one of the most striking and memorable buildings in Sligo, but also one of the finest examples of its genre in the country.
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The famous Irish poet William Butler Yeats is closely associated with County Sligo; he used the abbey in two short stories: "The Crucifixion of the Outcasts" and "The Curse of Fire and Shadow." Yeats is buried in the nearby Drumcliffe Church.
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Hyde Bridge was built in 1845 and spans the River Garavogue. It was originally named after Queen Victoria and then renamed after the first President of Ireland in 1947.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are accessible from bus stations around Lough Gill?
There are 5 hiking trails around Lough Gill that are easily accessible from bus stations, offering a convenient way to explore the region without a car.
Are there easy hiking trails accessible by bus for beginners around Lough Gill?
Yes, 4 of the 5 bus-accessible trails around Lough Gill are rated as easy. For a gentle introduction, consider the The Doory Park – Playground loop from Sligo, which is just over 2 km long, or the Hyde Bridge – Garavogue Riverside Walk loop from Sligo, offering pleasant riverside views.
What kind of scenery can I expect on bus-accessible hikes around Lough Gill?
Hikes accessible by bus around Lough Gill offer a variety of beautiful scenery. You can expect crystal-clear waters, lush greenery, and rolling hills. Trails often meander through ancient woodlands, offering picturesque forest paths and stunning lakeside views, particularly in areas like Slish Wood and Hazelwood.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options from bus stations near Lough Gill?
Absolutely. Many of the easy trails are suitable for families. The The Doory Park – Playground loop from Sligo is a short, easy option. The region's woodlands, such as Hazelwood Forest, also feature nature trails with information panels and sculptures, perfect for engaging younger hikers.
Can I bring my dog on these bus-accessible trails around Lough Gill?
Generally, dogs are welcome on many of the outdoor trails around Lough Gill, especially in forest areas like Slish Wood and Hazelwood. However, it's always best to keep them on a leash and check for specific signage, particularly in nature conservation areas, to ensure responsible hiking.
What natural features or landmarks can I see on bus-accessible hikes around Lough Gill?
You can encounter several notable natural features. The Slishwood Forest is an Old Oak Woodland, and you'll often have views of Lough Gill itself. Keep an eye out for viewpoints like the Tip of Hazelwood or the View of Hazelwood and Lough Gill from the Sligo Way, which offer panoramic vistas.
Are there any longer or more challenging hikes accessible by bus around Lough Gill?
Yes, for those seeking a longer adventure, the Lough Gill on the Sligo Way – Slishwood Forest loop from Dromahair is a moderate 17.5 km route. This trail offers a more extensive exploration of the lakeside and forest environments.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the bus-accessible trails around Lough Gill?
The bus-accessible trails around Lough Gill are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the convenience of access, the serene lakeside paths, and the beauty of the ancient woodlands, making them perfect for a peaceful escape.
Are there circular routes available from bus stops around Lough Gill?
Yes, many of the bus-accessible routes around Lough Gill are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end your hike at the same convenient location. Examples include the Sligo Courthouse – Sligo Abbey loop from Sligo and the Hyde Bridge – BeeHive Hostel loop from Sligo.
What is the best time of year to hike around Lough Gill using public transport?
Lough Gill offers beautiful hiking experiences year-round. Spring and summer bring lush greenery and vibrant wildflowers, while autumn showcases stunning foliage. The region's unique microclimate and diverse woodlands make it enjoyable in any season, though checking local weather forecasts is always advisable.
Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting on these bus-accessible trails?
Lough Gill is a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and a haven for nature lovers and birdwatchers. The woodlands and lake shores provide habitats for a rich biodiversity, including rare plant species and various birdlife, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting along the trails.
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