Map & Elevation
About this Route
This GPX follows a 7.3 km out-and-back from Carrick Little to Slieve Binnian's 747 m summit, gaining 576 m. Follow the clear stony track towards the Annalong Valley, cross the stone step stile beside the iron gate at the Mourne Wall, then turn left for the sustained, steep climb beside the wall. Before the bare granite high on the ridge, drift right towards the notch and the summit tors. The upper ground is rough, bouldery and exposed, so this is a strenuous mountain walk even though it does not require technical climbing. Return by exactly the same line; this trace is not the longer North Tor or Blue Lough circuit. The Mourne Wall is a useful landmark, but it is not a substitute for map-and-compass navigation in cloud.
The wall is a useful handrail but should not be climbed or treated as a continuous path. Higher up, granite blocks and the summit tors create several tempting lines; choose the simplest walking route and avoid exposed scrambling that is unnecessary for the summit. This GPX turns around at the main top rather than traversing to the North Tor or Blue Lough. In mist, keep checking the wall and notch used on the ascent.
The wall rises steeply on the rugged slopes of Slieve Binnian.
OutmoreNI
Route Waypoints
Start at Carrick Little car park (grid J 345 219), about 158 m above sea level. Take the clear stony track heading west towards Slieve Binnian and the Annalong Valley.
Cross the stone step stile beside the iron gate in the Mourne Wall, then turn left to begin the steep climb alongside the wall. The character changes quickly from track walking to rough mountain ground.
At roughly 500 m elevation the climb is sustained and increasingly rocky. Keep checking the GPX and map; the wall is an obvious feature but visibility can deteriorate quickly.
Around 600 m, continue through broken ground and granite boulders. Before the bare granite near the top, drift right towards the notch rather than following the wall blindly.
Reach Slieve Binnian's 747 m summit among the granite tors. The wall passes below the actual high point. This is the GPX turnaround point; do not continue onto the North Tor circuit.
Reverse the steep path beside the wall. Choose simple lines through the granite and avoid walking on the historic wall itself.
Cross the stile and follow the stony track between fields. Keep dogs controlled around livestock and close gates.
Retrace the same route beside the wall, cross the stile and follow the stony track back to Carrick Little. The steep rocky descent demands care, especially when wet.
Essential Tips
The direct line beside the Mourne Wall is steep and sustained, with rough stones and boulders underfoot. Allow extra time if the ground is wet or your party is inexperienced.
The wall is a useful feature, not a guaranteed safe handrail. Carry the OSNI map and compass, know how to use them and follow the supplied GPX in poor visibility.
The summit ridge is exposed to wind, cloud and rapidly changing weather. Carry waterproofs, warm layers, food, water and a charged phone, and turn back if conditions deteriorate.
This GPX returns by the ascent line and does not include the North Tor or Blue Lough circular variants. Park responsibly and leave access clear at Carrick Little.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Slieve Binnian route from Carrick Little?
This GPX is a 7.3 km out-and-back with 576 m of ascent. The calculated walking-time estimate is about 2 hours 25 minutes, before stops; allow longer for rough ground, weather and your group's pace.
How difficult is this Slieve Binnian route?
It is a strenuous mountain walk. The climb beside the Mourne Wall is steep and sustained, and the upper slopes are rough, bouldery and exposed. No technical climbing is required on the GPX line, but confident navigation is essential.
Where does the route start and which map should I carry?
Start at Carrick Little car park, grid J 345 219. Carry the OSNI Mournes Activity Map at 1:25,000 (or equivalent current mapping), plus a compass, and use the GPX as an additional navigation aid.