Camenabologue – A Rugged Summit in the Heart of the Wicklow Mountains

Overview

Camenabologue (Irish: Céim na mBulóg, “step or pass of the bullocks”) stands at 758 m (2,487 ft), making it the 31st‑highest mountain in Ireland on the MountainViews list. Situated in the southern sector of the Wicklow Mountains, it forms part of a horseshoe‑shaped, boggy massif that crowns the head of Glenmalure. Its neighbours include Table Mountain (702 m) and Conavalla (734 m), while the great central spine of the range continues south to Lugnaquilla (925 m). The mountain’s prominence of 133 m places it among the county’s notable “Humps” and “Hewitts”.

History & Landscape

The Wicklow range has long been a wild, sparsely populated landscape, shaped by ancient glaciation and later by 19th‑century mining activity. Remnants of a short‑lived silver and lead mine, visible near the old Glenmalure Hostel, hint at this industrial past. Today, the area is also known for the Glen of Imaal, an active live‑firing range used by the Irish Army. While the range is closed to the public during exercises, its presence adds a unique historical layer to the walk.

Getting There – By Car

The most common start point is the Baravore Car Park in Glenmalure Valley (see Google Maps). From Dublin, take the N11 south to the R115 at Kilmacanogue, then follow the signs for Glenmalure via the scenic R755. The drive is about 1 hour 15 minutes (≈70 km). Parking is free and ample on weekdays; it can fill up in summer, so early arrival is advisable.

Public transport – No regular bus reaches Baravore directly. The nearest bus stop is in the village of Aghavannagh (served by the 133/134 routes from Wicklow town). From there a short taxi ride or a 2 km walk on the marked trail leads to the car park.

Connecting Walks & Nearby Villages

Camenabologue sits on a popular 19 km loop that also takes in Conavalla. Walkers can extend the trek by joining a section of the Wicklow Way, which passes through Glenmalure and offers an additional 5 km of well‑marked trail. The historic village of Aghavannagh lies a few kilometres north and makes a pleasant stop for a coffee or a bite at the local pub.

Seasonal Advice & Safety

• Best months – Late spring to early autumn (May‑October) give the driest ground and longest daylight. Early summer often brings colourful heather on the summit plateau.
• Winter – Snow and ice can make the boggy sections hazardous; crampons and a sturdy walking pole are recommended.
• Military range – The Glen of Imaal firing range operates on a variable schedule. Hikers must obey all signage and check the latest closure notices on the military.ie site before setting out.
• Weather – The Wicklow Mountains are prone to rapid weather changes. Carry waterproof clothing, a map and a fully charged phone.

Flora & Fauna

The summit plateau supports typical upland heath: heather, bilberry, crowberry and occasional bog cotton. Birdwatchers may spot meadow pipits, skylarks and, on rare clear days, peregrine falcons hunting over the ridge. The surrounding valleys are home to red and sika deer, which are most active at dawn and dusk.

What to See & Do

• Summit Cairn – A modest stone cairn marks the top, offering a 360° panorama of the Wicklow peaks, the glen below, and on clear days, distant views towards the Irish Sea.
• Y‑junction Loop – The most popular route is a 19 km loop that reaches both Conavalla and Camenabologue. Hikers typically tackle Conavalla first, then return to the junction for Camenabologue, though many choose to prioritise the latter for its more straightforward ascent.
• Old Mine Crusher – A short detour via the Mine Path reveals the ruins of a 19th‑century ore‑crushing building, a tangible reminder of the region’s mining heritage.
• Glen of Imaal Signage – Information boards near the summit explain the military range’s boundaries and safety procedures.

Practical Information

Route Details

Difficulty – Graded Difficult. The hike involves boggy sections, rocky pavement, and occasional stream crossings (log bridges and stepping stones). The final kilometre to Camenabologue’s summit is a steady, well‑trodden grassy path.

Navigation – The route is well marked on the AllTrails map (AllTrails link). GPS coordinates for the summit are 53.005114 N, ‑6.476574 W.

Facilities – There are no permanent facilities on the mountain. The Baravore Car Park provides a clean, flat area for a brief rest before or after the hike. The former Glenmalure Hostel is now closed, but the nearby Glenmalure Lodge offers modest accommodation for those wishing to stay overnight.

Seasonal Considerations – The hike is best attempted in late spring to early autumn when the ground is drier. Winter conditions can make the boggy sections treacherous.

Nearby Attractions

• Avondale Forest Park – A short 15 km drive north brings you to the historic estate of Charles Stewart Parker, with woodland walks and the famous ‘Avondale Tree’.
• Blessington Lakes – The scenic reservoir complex near Blessington offers fishing, kayaking and a pleasant lakeside promenade.
• Ballinastoe MBT – For mountain‑bike enthusiasts, the nearby Ballinastoe Mountain Bike Trail Centre provides a network of purpose‑built tracks.
• Table Mountain – After descending, consider a short walk to Table Mountain (702 m) via the Table Track, or explore the historic Glenmalure Valley before heading back.

Photography

The early morning light (06:30‑08:00) and late afternoon (18:00‑20:00) provide the best conditions for capturing the mist‑shrouded peaks. A telephoto lens helps isolate distant peaks, while a wide‑angle works well on the summit plateau to include the surrounding valleys.

Summary of Key Facts

• Elevation: 758 m
• Prominence: 133 m
• Grid Reference: 53°0’19”N, 6°28’35”W
• Category: Hump, Simm, Hewitt, Arderin, Vandeleur‑Lynam
• Nearest Town: Wicklow (approx. 20 km north)

Enjoy the sense of achievement that comes with standing on one of Ireland’s highest summits, surrounded by the wild beauty of the Wicklow Mountains.