Hen and Cock Mountain Trail
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Table of contents
The Hen and Cock Mountain Trail is a challenging journey in the Mourne Mountains Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that will lead you up each of these two peaks for some beautiful views. While out on the trail, you will head across the boggy, open landscape to reach the rocky summit of Cock Mountain for some incredible views, before continuing on to the lesser peak of Hen Mountain. Due to the rugged terrain along the trail, dogs are not permitted to walk this route.
Route Description for Hen and Cock Mountain Trail
Walking the Hen and Cock Mountain Trail is a challenging but fun experience in the Mourne Mountains AONB that will allow you to bag to peaks and experience some beautifully scenic views. In addition to having a great sightline across the surrounding mountains, you will also have some great views of the Spelga Reservoir to the southeast.
Setting out from the car park, you will make your way to the southeast across Sandbank Road and continue along the trail as it traverses the open landscape. Here, you will follow along the Mourne Way as it runs parallel to the Rocky River, before turning to the northeast to traverse the boggy landscape on the steep ascent of Cock Mountain.
After experiencing the breathtaking views overlooking the surrounding mountains and reservoir, you will descend the mountainside and continue on to the rocky summit of Hen Mountain, where you will enjoy similar views, albeit from a lesser height. From here, you will continue heading to the northwest in order to make your way downhill on the return to the car park where you started your adventure.
Getting to the Hen and Cock Mountain Trail Trailhead
The trailhead for the Hen and Cock Mountain Trail can be found at the Hen Mountain Car Park, located along Sandbank Road, 4.2 km southeast of Hilltown.
Route Information
Backcountry Campground:
No
When to do:
April-October
Pets allowed:
No
Family friendly:
Older Children only
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
Moderate
Route Type:
Lollipop
Hen and Cock Mountain Trail Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherReviews
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