Trek Report: Slieve Martin

Dilemma!!

‘To go or not to go?’

‘It’s too cold.’

‘You might not keep up.’

‘D and Gail won’t be there to chat to.’

Thankfully that little voice inside my head was ignored and a thoroughly exhilarating, enjoyable and entertaining walk was had.

The drive to Kilbroney Forest Park was treacherous for some, with black ice lurking, but the brilliant sunshine more than made up for this.

Meeting at 10.15 we made our introductions and welcomed four new potential members to the group.

Our gentle climb to the Cloughmore Stone was rewarded with a swift cup of tea and wonderful views over Carlingford Lough.

A seventy-seven-year-old couple practically jogged up and down and gave us great words of encouragement!

We then pushed on through magical tree tunnels and grassy tracks to reach the summit of Slieve Martin, some 450m above sea level.

A well-earned rest and lunch, overlooked by the towering Donard and Binian was enjoyed by all. The descent was swift and entertaining and we returned to the car park before two o’clock.

Where to next?

Date: Saturday 18th January 2020

Total distance: 9.7km

Elevation gain: 673m

Duration: 3.5 hours

To find out more about the Trek NI Walking Group, click here.