Overview
Perched at grid reference J325274 on the slopes of Ben Crom, the Shelter Stone is one of the Mourne Mountains’ most beloved wild‑camping spots. A low‑lying arrangement of stone slabs juts out from the earth, creating a natural alcove that hikers can clamber under for shelter from wind or rain. From the stone’s lip you can gaze down onto the tranquil surface of Ben Crom reservoir, while the surrounding hills roll away in a patchwork of heather and granite.
The site is a favourite stop for walkers tackling the Mourne Way or for anyone seeking a quiet place to pitch a bivvy after a day on the trails. Its simplicity – just stone, sky and water – makes it feel like a secret outpost in the heart of the range.
History & Background
The Shelter Stone is not a historic monument in the traditional sense; rather, it is a natural formation that has been adopted by generations of walkers as a convenient refuge. The stone slabs have existed for centuries, but their use as a shelter became popular with the rise of wild‑camping culture in the Mournes during the late 20th century. Local guidebooks and the Mourne Mountains website now list it as a recognised camping point, and it has been photographed extensively by hikers sharing their adventures online.
While the stone itself bears no carvings or inscriptions, its location tells a story of the landscape’s utilitarian past – the same ridges that once guided shepherds and game‑keepers now guide modern trekkers.
What to See & Do
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Stone Shelter | A set of flat slabs you can crawl under; perfect for a brief rest or a night‑under‑the‑stars. |
| Views | Panoramic outlook over Ben Crom reservoir; on clear days the distant peaks of Slieve Commedagh and Slieve Donard dominate the horizon. |
| Photography | The stone’s rugged texture contrasts beautifully with the smooth water of the reservoir – ideal for sunrise or sunset shots. |
| Wild‑Camping | Designated as a popular bivouac spot; many hikers leave a small cairn of stones as a marker of their stay. |
Getting There
Two main approaches lead to the Shelter Stone:
- From Hares Gap – Follow the well‑marked track that climbs steeply past the head of the reservoir. The path is a mixture of stone steps and grassy scramble, taking roughly 45 minutes from the car‑park at Hares Gap.
- From Silent Valley Reservoir – A longer, quieter route ascends from the Silent Valley complex, weaving through heather‑covered slopes before joining the Hares Gap track near the stone.
Both routes are signposted on the official Mourne Mountains maps, and the shelter itself is highlighted with a red flag on the PDF map linked on the website.
Seasonal Highlights
- Spring (April‑May) – The heather begins to flower and the reservoir mirrors the fresh green hills; a great time for photography.
- Summer (June‑August) – Long daylight hours allow for late‑night bivvying. Be aware of occasional thunderstorms that can bring strong winds.
- Autumn (September‑October) – Colours shift to gold and amber, and the cooler air makes the stone shelter especially welcome.
- Winter (November‑March) – Snow can blanket the higher ground; the stone provides essential protection, but check weather forecasts and be prepared for icy paths.
Wildlife & Flora
The Mourne slopes around the Shelter Stone support a variety of wildlife. Birdwatchers may spot peregrine falcons, ravens and meadow pipits soaring above the reservoir. The surrounding heather, gorse and bilberry bushes provide colour throughout the year and attract butterflies in summer.
Safety & Weather
- Terrain – The ground can be uneven and slippery after rain; sturdy boots with good ankle support are recommended.
- Exposure – While the stone offers shelter from wind, the site remains exposed. Carry a wind‑proof bivvy and warm layers.
- Navigation – Use the grid reference J325274 on a map or GPS. Mobile signal is often weak on the summit.
- Emergency – The nearest rescue point is the Hares Gap car‑park; consider carrying a fully‑charged phone and a basic first‑aid kit.
Nearby Highlights
While you’re in the area, consider extending your walk to include:
- Ben Crom – The reservoir that feeds the Mourne catchment; perfect for a short lakeside stroll.
- Hares Gap – A historic mountain pass that offers sweeping views of the surrounding peaks.
- Silent Valley Reservoir – A larger reservoir with a network of walking trails that showcase the region’s glacial geology.
Practical Information
The Shelter Stone is free to use and operates on a wild‑camping basis – there are no entry fees, ticket offices, or staffed facilities. Because the site is entirely natural, visitors should be prepared to be self‑sufficient:
- Camping – You may set up a small bivvy or tent for one night. Remember to follow the Leave‑No‑Trace principles: pack out all litter, avoid building fires, and leave the stone and surrounding area as you found it.
- Facilities – There are no toilets, water supplies, or waste bins on site. The nearest amenities are at the Hares Gap car‑park (toilets) and the Silent Valley visitor centre.
- Parking – Free parking is available at Hares Gap (limited spaces) and at the Silent Valley car‑park. Arrive early in peak season to secure a spot.
- Public Transport – Bus services run from Belfast to Newcastle; from there a local taxi can reach Hares Gap. (Please verify current schedules.)
- Dog Friendly – Dogs are generally allowed on the Mourne trails, but confirm any restrictions for the specific campsite area.
Map & Photo Resources
- Shelter Stone Map Location (Red Flag)
- Ben Crom Reservoir from part way up to the Shelter Stone
- The Shelter Stone from Below
- Beneath the Shelter Stone
Why Visit?
The Shelter Stone offers a rare blend of simplicity and spectacle. It is a place where the raw geology of the Mournes meets the human desire for a night under the stars. Whether you are a seasoned hill‑walker looking for a quick rest, a photographer chasing dramatic light on stone and water, or a wild‑camper seeking a legal, scenic spot, the Shelter Stone delivers an authentic mountain experience without the crowds of more commercial sites.
Plan your hike, bring a lightweight bivvy, and let the stone’s quiet embrace become a memorable chapter of your Mourne adventure.