B Walk – Ballycrystal to Scullogue Gap – Blackstairs Ridge Walk
Join us for a guided walk through the Blackstairs Mountains, where you’ll discover the fascinating history of the area. Led by knowledgeable local guides, this six-hour mountain trek offers a deep dive into the area’s ancient past, revealing the many stories etched into its rugged landscape.
Admission €30
Starting in the tranquil Ballycrystal Valley, this walk ascends through forest trails and along an old mountain track, originally built during the Emergency to facilitate the extraction of turf. The route climbs to Blackrock Mountain, where walkers are treated to sweeping views of the Slaney River Valley stretching eastwards to the Wicklow Mountains.
From Blackrock, the trail follows the ridge to Mount Leinster, the highest point of the Blackstairs Mountains. Here, panoramic vistas extend across Carlow, Kilkenny, and Wexford, and on clear days, even further afield.
The descent continues southwards to Knockroe, reaching its summit via another historic mountain track. From the top, you can take in views over the Barrow Valley and the southern reaches of the Blackstairs. Along the way, walkers will encounter the Dolmen known as the Giant’s Table, a fascinating ancient landmark nestled on the slopes of Knockroe.
The walk concludes as you follow Shannon’s Lane, winding down to the Scullogue Gap.
| Summary B Walk | Suitable for Experienced Hill Walkers |
| Duration | Approximately 5 hours from start in Rathanna to finish |
| Length | 13km |
| Maximum altitude | 650 metres |
| Terrain | Terrain is on open mountain, rugged, exposed and unmarked – includes boulder fields and uneven surfaces. |
| Fitness levels | Requires strong physical fitness and endurance. |
| Reward! | Fabulous views of the River Slaney and River Barrow Valleys. |
Walk includes:
- Experienced members from Tullow Mountaineering Club
- Bus transport to/from start/finish of walk
- Soup, sandwiches, tea and coffee after the walk
Supported by Carlow County Council under the Festival and Events Scheme
| Date and Time: | Sunday, 4th October, 2026 at 09:00 |
|---|---|
| Registration: | Rathanna Hall, Rathanna, Borris, Co. Carlow at 08:30 |
| Start Point: | Rathanna Hall, Rathanna, Borris, Co. Carlow |
| Finish Point: | Rathanna Hall, Bus transport to Rathanna Hall for soup, sandwiches, tea and coffee following conclusion of the walk. |
| Actual Distance: | 13km |
| Maximum Altitude: | 650m |
| Walk Duration: | 5hrs (approx.) |