Rediscovering Birreencorragh: A Trek to Remember ⛰️
- “In the mountains there are only two grades: you can either do it, or you can’t.”
- Rusty Baillie
The Keenagh trailhead carpark has ample places for parking and is an ideal location for a start point to climb Birreencorragh.
This is one I've been pondering for quite some time. Four years back, when I climbed Knockaffertagh and gazed at the impressive ridgeline leading to Birreencorragh's summit, the thought struck me that this route would provide the perfect adventure for a return visit.
Once off the metalled road the trail goes on until you head up onto Knockaffertagh mountain.
Fast forward to today, and I am thrilled to be back at it, joined once again by the ever-adventurous and enthusiastic Siobhan.
Looking towards Beltra lake and Croaghmoyle.
We kick off our day at the Keenagh loop trailhead, an ideal starting point to embark on our ascent. The Keenagh loop walk has its own charm but by following the first bit of the trail that leads up to a significant turning point on Knockaffertagh, we veer off to tackle the steepest section of the mountain.
Tristia Hill towards the East.
Recalling my last experience here, I remember being engulfed by waist-high ferns that made progress feel like an obstacle course. Today, however, the ferns are still in early growth, making the climb a bit more manageable—and a welcome relief!
The great Irish pilgrimage mountain of Croagh Patrick towards the West is visible through the haze.
Upon reaching the summit of Knockaffertagh, the views are nothing short of spectacular. Birreencorragh looms in the distance, and the ridgeline we’ll be traversing looks inviting. It’s hard to describe the exhilaration and expectation you feel when standing atop a mountain, especially knowing what lies ahead.
At the cairn on top of Knockaffertagh with the summit of Birreencorragh discernible in the background.
After soaking in the panorama, we begin by descending a small bit of the hill before switching gears again upward toward the ridge line. Here, we confront a steep incline of about 150 metres, made all the more challenging by the presence of loose scree. A glance at the map suggests veering right around the slope might be the better option but after a careful deliberation, we decide to tackle the left side. Sometimes the less travelled path can surprise you, and this time, it offers a stable route up the steep hill. As we finally gain the ridge, a wave of happiness washes over us. The walk feels more effortless now, and we pick up the pace, relishing the rest of the trek to the summit.
The approach to the summit of Birreencorragh.
Nearing the top the views of the surrounding mountains are breathtaking.
It’s a moment that encapsulates the essence of why we hike: the thrill and challenge of exploration and the appreciation of nature's beauty. Before long, we reach the summit of Birreencorragh and are met with those awe-inspiring 360° views that leave you breathless—which no photograph can ever truly capture their grandeur.
The cairn on top of Birreencorragh.
At the summit, the cairn stands resolute alongside remnants of what used to be a trigonometry pillar, likely ruined years ago. Sheltered nearby, a four-wall stone structure offers a refuge from the biting wind, a much-needed haven as we pause to enjoy a quick snack and the views. Despite the strong cold gusts, we linger on the leeward side facing out to the west and the Corranabinnias, Slieve Carr and Nephin Beg indulging in the serenity and the scenic splendour around us. It’s moments like this that we think make every ounce of effort so far taken on the climb worth it.
The great landscape vista from Knockmore, Clare Island on the left to Slievemore on Achill Island on the right doesn’t leave much to the imagination.
Once we’ve taken our fill of the mountain’s offerings, we start our descent, heading slightly northwestward on a slight spur down toward the Fiddaugal River. We find that the route is dry and progress is good; before we know it, we’re back on the main road at Bogadoon, heading in the direction of the Keenagh trailhead.
Looking towards Slieve Carr and the Altnabrocky forest.
As we pack up and head home, the adventure lingers in our minds. It's experiences like these that remind us of the beauty out there, waiting to be explored, and the joy of sharing those moments with someone who encourages your passion for hill walking.
Mayo: a great hill walking County.
Carpe Diem