Sheskin Forest Trail – Mayo’s Big Sky Wilderness

Overview

Sheskin Forest stretches from near Ballycastle to Bellacorick in north‑Mayo, forming a striking swathe of conifer on former bogland. The forest is famed for its ever‑changing sky – Ireland’s “big sky country” – and its sense of wilderness, with no permanent habitation and only a handful of marked tracks. The trail forms a substantial section of the Western Way, a long‑distance walking route that links the Atlantic coast of Galway to the rugged west of Mayo.

The forest is managed by Coillte and is freely accessible to the public. A downloadable trail map is normally available from Coillte’s website; however, the Coillte page is currently unreachable, so visitors should obtain the latest map from local tourist offices, the Bellacorick B&Bs or the Knockhouse Hotel.

History & Background

The Sheskin area was originally blanket‑bog, its name deriving from the Irish seisceann meaning “marsh”. In the early 20th century the bog was afforested with conifers, creating the forest we see today. The forest’s remote character reflects its past as common land during the Ulster Plantation, later divided into small parcels for tenants. While the townland of Sheskin in County Monaghan holds its own historic narrative, the Mayo forest carries a different story – one of land‑reclamation, timber production, and the development of a modern recreational corridor.

A notable relic is the monkey‑puzzle tree (Chile‑origin Araucaria araucana) at the former Sheskin Lodge, a reminder of the estate’s hunting‑lodge past. Scattered throughout the woods are the crumbling stone walls of former homesteads, silent witnesses to the lives of families who once farmed the surrounding uplands. A modern wind‑farm sits just east of the trail, providing a rare industrial landmark in an otherwise natural landscape.

What to See & Do

Two‑Day Itinerary & Practical Tips

The trail is commonly walked over two days, starting at the southern trailhead near Bellacorick and finishing at the northern exit at Ballycastle. The route is gravelled and relatively flat, with no significant climbs, making it suitable for walkers of moderate fitness.

Day 1 – Bellacorick to Altderg

• Follow the marked forest track south‑west towards Altderg Lough. The ground is firm underfoot, but be prepared for occasional boggy sections after heavy rain.
• Water can be collected from small streams or puddles; a Lifestraw or similar filter is useful.
• Mid‑summer brings midges, so bring insect repellent.
• Wild‑camping spots are plentiful: look for clearings of pine needles shielded by young trees.

Day 2 – Altderg to Ballycastle

• Continue northwards, passing the monkey‑puzzle tree and several stone‑wall remnants.
• Deer are frequently sighted, especially in the early morning.
• The final stretch offers a view of the Atlantic coastline as you approach Ballycastle.

Gear suggestions from recent hikers

• Light, flexible footwear (e.g., Xero boots) works well on the gravelled surface.
• Pack dehydrated meals and high‑energy snacks; there are no shops on the route.
• A lightweight tent or bivvy, plus a sleeping bag rated for cool nights, is sufficient for wild‑camping.
• Carry a map (printed from the local tourist office) and a compass; some sections are un‑signposted.

Trail Conditions & Closures

The Western Way authority publishes up‑to‑date notices. As of the latest update:

• A 2 km boardwalk near Lackavrea is closed for safety reasons.
• The Ashleagh River section (from Ashleagh Lodge north to Houstan’s Bridge) is closed due to heavy rainfall.
• The Bellacorick‑to‑Bunnyconnellan stretch remains closed until further notice.

These closures can affect access to parts of the Sheskin segment, especially the southern approach. Hikers should check the official Western Way website before setting out and respect any temporary signage.

Access & Transport

• Road access: The trailheads are reachable by road from Ballycastle (north) or Bellacorick (south). A short, well‑signposted turn‑off leads to the Ballycastle entry point where free roadside parking is available.
• Public transport: Limited bus services run to Ballycastle and Bellacorick from Ballina and Castlebar. Timetables are sparse; verify schedules in advance.
• Parking: Free roadside parking at the Ballycastle turn‑off. No formal car parks exist within the forest.
• Nearby accommodation: B&Bs in Ballycastle and Bellacorick, as well as the Knockhouse Hotel near Bellacorick, provide rooms and up‑to‑date trail information.

Flora, Fauna & Wildlife

The conifer plantation supports a range of woodland birds such as tits, goldfinches and occasional woodpeckers. Openings with older oak allow mosses, lichens and occasional wildflowers to flourish, giving the forest floor a carpet of green.

Mammals commonly seen include red deer, which often cross the track at dawn, and hares. In summer, midges are abundant; insect repellent and long sleeves are advisable. Mosquitoes can also be present after rain.

Sustainable Visiting Tips

• Follow the Leave‑No‑Trace principles: pack out all litter, avoid damaging vegetation and stay on marked paths.
• Mayo County Council promotes seven environmental principles for visitors; brief reminders include respecting farm animals, staying on public rights of way and disposing of waste responsibly.
• Dogs are not permitted on the Sheskin section of the Western Way, helping protect the delicate bog habitat and maintain a quiet wildlife environment.

Getting There

• Road access: The trailheads are reachable by road from Ballycastle (north) or Bellacorick (south). Parking is available at the Ballycastle turn‑off; from there the trail begins.
• Public transport: The nearest bus services run to Ballycastle and Bellacorick from Ballina and Castlebar, but schedules are limited – check local timetables before travelling.
• Parking: Free roadside parking is provided at the Ballycastle entry point. No formal car parks exist within the forest.

Practical Information

• Length & Difficulty: Approximately 25 km; classified as a moderate walk (some uneven ground, occasional roots and stones). The route is suitable for walkers with a reasonable level of fitness and basic navigation skills.
• Facilities: No permanent facilities within the forest – no toilets, cafés or parking structures.
• Navigation: A PDF map is normally downloadable from Coillte; with the current site offline, obtain a printed copy from local tourist offices, Bellacorick B&Bs or the Knockhouse Hotel. Carry a compass and be comfortable with basic navigation.
• Safety: The area is remote; inform someone of your intended route and expected return time. Weather can change rapidly, and the terrain can be boggy or uneven.
• Supplies: Bring sufficient water, high‑energy snacks, and a basic first‑aid kit. There are no shops along the route.
• Accommodation: For those preferring a roof over their head, the nearby villages of Ballycastle and Bellacorick offer B&Bs and guesthouses. The Knockhouse Hotel near Bellacorick can also provide information and accommodation.
• Cost: Entry to the forest is free; no admission fee is charged.
• Current Trail Notices: See the Trail Conditions & Closures section above for the latest updates.

Nearby Attractions

• Aasleagh Falls – a short detour from the Western Way near the town of Aasleagh.
• Bangor Trail – another remote Mayo walk that links Newport to Bangor, offering contrasting coastal scenery.
• Ballycroy National Park – the neighbouring Wild Nephin National Park provides additional forest walks and wildlife spotting opportunities.

For further details, contact the local tourist office in Bellacorick or the nearby Knockhouse Hotel, which provides up‑to‑date information on trail conditions and accommodation.