Letterkeen Purple Loop

Start from the town of Newport, follow the N59 in the direction of Achill for just 1km before turning right at a signpost indicating Treenlaur Youth Hostel and Lough Furnace. After 1km go straight at a signpost for Lough Furnace and continue along this road past Lough Feeagh (on your left). Pass Treenlaur Youth Hostel and Shramore Lodge, and then cross a small bridge over the Srahrevagh River. Almost immediately after the bridge turn left onto a forestry roadway (following the signposts for the Bangor Trail and the Western Way). Follow the forestry roadway for approx. 1km – the trailhead is located at the stone bothy.

The Letterkeen Loop walks begin at the Brogan Carroll bothy, a stone hut at the access point for the woodland. There are three loop walks which have colour-coded signposts: red, blue and purple. Each of these walks requires a good level of fitness, especially the purple loop, which includes a climb and some rough ground. All three walks are on the same path for part of the way, so you will see blue, red and purple arrows together, especially at the beginning and end of each walk.

Trailhead / Start Point: At the Brogan Carroll bothy

Terrain: Mountain tracks, riverbanks, forest tracks and sandy paths

Direction: Purple markers

Distance 10.5 km

Estimated Time: 3 hours

GPS Location: 53.9889, -9.5723

Grade: Hard

Minimum Gear: Hiking boots, waterproofs, mobile phone, snacks & fluids

Services: Newport, Mulranny