Overview
The Leitrim Hills form a rugged, ancient spine of limestone and granite that runs through the north-west of County Leitrim. Part of the wider Dartry Mountain range, these hills dominate the Glenade Valley and frame the calm waters of Lough Allen. The landscape is defined by rolling green slopes, craggy outcrops, and deep river valleys that have long served as a corridor for travellers and a sanctuary for wildlife. For visitors, the area offers a quiet escape from crowded tourist trails, with a network of walking paths, cycling routes, and scenic viewpoints accessible directly from the roadside.
Hag’s Leap & the Limestone Pavements
The undisputed highlight of the range is Hag’s Leap, a dramatic natural rock tower that rises to 330 metres. Recognised as Ireland’s tallest free-standing rock tower, it stands on the edge of the Glenade Valley. A short, well-maintained path leads from the main car park to a viewing platform where you can look out over the Dartry range and the surrounding glens. The rock tower itself is not open for climbing, and visitors are asked to stay on the designated paths to protect the fragile limestone formations.
Beneath the cliffs lies Poll na mBear, a cave system where archaeological finds have revealed the presence of brown bears in the region thousands of years ago. The limestone pavements that spread across the higher ground create a unique microclimate, allowing rare alpine plants and mosses to thrive in the shallow soil pockets between the rock fissures.
Walking & Cycling Routes
The hills are crisscrossed by trails suitable for every fitness level. The Shannon Blueway Trail is the most popular starting point: a traffic-free, largely flat path that follows the banks of the River Shannon. It is ideal for families, casual cyclists, and those using electric bikes, with clear signage and regular access points.
For longer excursions, the Leitrim Way passes through the hills, linking Drumshanbo and Manorhamilton with the wider Shannon-Erne Waterway. Sections of the trail can be broken into manageable day walks, while more experienced hikers can tackle the steeper, unmarked routes that lead to higher vantage points. Always carry a map or reliable navigation device, as some of the higher paths are not formally signposted.
Shorter, family-friendly loops include the riverside walk through Carrick-on-Shannon, the circular route around Aghacashel near Drumshanbo, and the short trail to Fowley’s Falls. Each offers gentle gradients, clear surfaces, and plenty of opportunities to stop for a picnic or a photograph.
Nature, Water & Outdoor Activities
Beyond walking, the Leitrim Hills are a hub for low-impact outdoor recreation. The Acres Lake Floating Boardwalk near Drumshanbo provides a unique perspective over the water, while the nearby outdoor gym offers a chance to stretch your legs after a hike.
The surrounding lakes and rivers are popular for stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing, and kayaking. The Bonet River is frequently used for guided Canadian-style canoe trips, and the calm waters of Lough Melvin offer a natural swimming spot with clear, sandy shores. Swimmers should always exercise caution, as there are no lifeguards on duty. For those who prefer to stay dry, boat tours and cruises depart regularly from Carrick-on-Shannon, providing a relaxed way to view the hills from the water.
Planning Your Visit
Access to the Leitrim Hills is free year-round, with the main car park for Hag’s Leap located just off the Glenade Valley road. Signage is clear, and the viewing area is accessible for most mobility levels. Dogs are welcome on the majority of trails and the Shannon Blueway, but should be kept on a lead in sensitive limestone pavement areas to protect ground-nesting birds and fragile plant life.
There is no dedicated visitor centre within the hills themselves, but Drumshanbo and Manorhamilton serve as excellent bases, offering pubs, cafés, and accommodation ranging from guesthouses to self-catering lodges. The Sliabh an Iarainn Visitor Centre in Drumshanbo provides detailed local maps and information on heritage sites, while a short drive north brings you to Creevelea Abbey, a tranquil Franciscan ruin set in the Dromahair valley.
Bring sturdy footwear for the higher limestone trails, pack a waterproof layer regardless of the season, and allow extra time to stop at the viewpoints. The Leitrim Hills reward patience with quiet valleys, dramatic rock formations, and some of the most unspoilt inland scenery in the west of Ireland.