Map & Elevation
About this Route
This GPX climbs Slieve Binnian from Carrick Little by the Mourne Wall and returns the same way. It covers 7.3 km with about 587 m of ascent and usually takes 3½ to 5 hours. The wall provides a clear guide, but the climb is steep, bouldery and exposed, with rough granite around the summit tors.
Follow the clear stony track south-west from Carrick Little between fields. Cross the stone stile and turn left beside the Mourne Wall. The path rises relentlessly, becoming rougher as the wall approaches bare granite. Before the wall meets the slab, drift right towards the notch on the summit ridge. Continue to the main 747 m summit area among the South Tor and nearby granite formations. Climbing exposed tor blocks is optional and unnecessary.
Return beside the wall to Carrick Little. This GPX does not traverse to the North Tor, Blue Lough or Annalong Forest. The wall is a useful handrail, but gaps and tors can confuse the descent in mist. Avoid climbing on the historic structure, take care on wet granite and keep dogs close on the open mountain.
From Carrick Little, the Mourne Wall leads almost all the way to Slieve Binnian's summit.
Visit Mourne
Route Waypoints
Start from the small car park on Head Road. Arrive early and keep the narrow road, gates and passing places clear.
Follow the clear stony track south-west between walls and fields. Keep to the public route through Carrick Little and close gates around grazing livestock.
Cross the stile beside the iron gate and turn left to follow the Mourne Wall uphill.
Climb the steep worn path beside the wall. Loose stones and peat make the descent slippery.
Before the wall runs into bare rock, drift right and aim for the safer notch on the ridge.
Continue among large granite blocks, choosing simple walking lines rather than climbing exposed tors. The main summit can be reached without committing to difficult rock moves.
Reach the 747 m summit area. Stop here; the North Tor and Blue Lough circuit are outside this GPX.
Retrace the notch, wall and field track to the car park. In mist, keep the wall on the correct side and do not drift towards Blue Lough.
Essential Tips
The Mourne Wall is a historic structure. Walk beside it and use stiles or gates at crossings.
Follow the established rightward line towards the notch rather than forcing a climb beside the wall.
Wet granite and strong wind make exposed blocks dangerous. The summit route does not require climbing them.
Blue Lough and the North Tor belong to a longer circuit. Return beside the wall to Carrick Little.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to climb Slieve Binnian from Carrick Little?
It typically takes 3½ to 5 hours for the round trip. The route covers 7.4 km with 564 m of ascent, so your time will depend on fitness and how much you stop at the summit.
Do I need to do any rock climbing to reach the summit of Slieve Binnian?
No, you don't need to climb anything. The main 747 m summit can be reached by walking among the granite blocks, and climbing the exposed tors is completely optional.
Can I walk on the Mourne Wall?
No, don't climb or walk on the wall — it's a historic structure. Walk beside it and only cross at stiles or gates.