Clogheen Loop Walk – Knockmealdown Active
This is a new walk (officially given the status of a recognised national Loop Walk in 2011) which has been promoted by the recently formed Knockmealdown Active group.
We currently have no map to go with this walk, but will include one here as soon as there is one available.
It is, however, way-marked (black posts with green markers) from where it leaves the main Lismore/Cappoquin road through the forestry roads above Clogheen, so it is relatively easy to navigate.
The walk is 5.1 miles long and should take about 1 hour 40 minutes for an average walker. There is somewhat of a climb at the start, mainly along the roadway, but nothing a regular walker would consider difficult.
The loop starts at St. Paul’s Community Centre, walking toward the Vee on the road past the Hospital, The Old Convent and the National School to the top of the straight. Here it turns right onto the forestry path, from where it is way-marked. The trail follows the forest roadway above Clogheen village, offering excellent views of the town (see picture) from a vantage point that many will not have seen before. It then drops down onto what is known locally as Heathfield, part of the Shanrahan loop walk, making its way by road back to St. Paul’s Community Centre on the roadway.
Bring runners or good walking shoes/boots, rain gear, something to drink and a fully charged mobile phone.
For further information on Knockmealdown Active Walks as well as dates and times for upcoming walks contact P.J.English 087 798 4929.