BLACKROCK HILLWALKING CLUB
‘Competence and Independence on the Hills and Mountains’
Friday 27th – Annual Dinner - Clarion
Sunday 29th
A 7 Peaks in the Galtees
When we do the Galtees it usually involves Galtee Mor and Galtee Beag. Depending on the weather we hope to do another route and one I love doing. A long hard day but a challenging one. The route will begin at the base of Knockaterriff beg ( 679m) , on to Lyracappul(825m), Carrignabinnia(822m), slievecushnabinnia ( 766m), Galtee Mor (919m) Galtee Beag.
Meet Maxol Mitchelstown to leave at 9am
Leader Jackie Furlong 087-9281248 Denis O Sullivan 085-1743275
C Inchegeela
We meet in Inchegeela and go west along the lake to park at “Timmys shed” . We walk west along the main road for a short distance. Turn right at Browns bridge, up to Milmorene and around Tir na Spideog and back to Timmys. About 3 hours – not steep.
Meet Inchegeela to leave at 11am
Leader: Micheal Kiely 0872740486
SCHEDULE OF WALKS February 2012 – May 2012
Note: Walk Leader to be contacted (by text) day before walk to confirm participation in walk and walker’s name.
Sunday Feb 5th
A+ Carrauntuohill
This is via the Gates and down the Bone.
Meeting: Lislebane car park, 9.30am.
Leader: Mike Cremin 085-1741202
B Mangerton with an option to come down Stoompa
A twist on an old favourite. We will head up to Mangerton the usual way. On a clear day there are great views over Killarney, the lakes and the Reeks. Mary will head back down the path. This is a 4 to 5 hour day and one for any of you who are keen to try walking up a mountain on rough ground. Most of the walk is on a path but there is a part of the walk on stone. The start of the walk can be quiet mucky. No scrambling or climbing involved!
At the top anyone who want to add a bit more on can come down via Stoompa with Jackie. This could take from 5-6 hours depending on the group and the weather.
Meeting: Glenflesk, 9am.
Leader: Mary Power 087-2766885/ Jackie Furlong 087 9281248
C Tomies Wood
A casual circular walk through oak woods, suitable for all. For anyone who has done this before the stream crossing is now made easier with a bridge. On our way we will come across the beautiful O Sullivan's Cascade. You will, on a clear day, get some views over Killarney lakes. The walk will take approximately three hours.
Meet Fossa Church Car Park Texaco Killarney 11 am (note changed meeting point)
Leader Mary O Connor 087-2941794/ Kitty Heskin
Sunday Feb 12th
A Gleninchaquin
This starts with a stiff climb to the top of a ridge, then walking the ridge with spectacular views left and right over Kenmare Bay. Lunch at the highest point will give us views of Lake Inchaquin.
Meeting: Kenmare, the new SuperValu opposite the Church, 10.30am.
Leader Paul Hurley 086-6096686
B Gleninchaquin
The B walkers will take an easier route and pace but the views are still great.
Meeting: Kenmare, the new SuperValu opposite the Church, 10.30am.
Leader Evan Roberts 086 6004091
C Ballycotton
John will lead a C walk that includes the Ballycotton Cliff Walk followed by a stroll through the village and then, if the tide is out, back along the beach to the cars.
Meeting: Meet Shanagarry Village 10.30am for 11.00am start
Leader: John Burke 087 6670745
Saturday Feb 18th
B Galtee Beag
In along on the track and then off up to the summit. If we get a good day the views are magnificent, to the southeast the Comeragh and Knockmealdown Mountains are prominent, and to the northwest the Shannon Estuary is visible on a clear day
Meeting Maxol Mitchelstown Service Stn 10am
Leader Michael O Sullivan 086-1041468
Sunday Feb 19th
A Hags Tooth Ridge
This is a serious scrambling route directly up to the summit of Beenkeragh otherwise known as Stumpa an tSaimh Ridge to Beenkeragh. Although it is not for the faint hearted, the route is not technical but in one or two spots we may require the use of a rope. We can plan our descent on the day. It will be a five or six hour day.
Meeting: Texaco Garage Killarney at 9.15am
Leader Rory Murphy 086-2221896 / Rachel
C Kilworth Woods
This is a circular walk through the rifle ranges (which Henry knows well) and woods and then back into Kilworth village. The walk will take 3+ hours
Meeting : Corbett Court, 10.30am
Leader Henry Caulfield 087-9395884
Sunday Feb 26th
A Cnoc na Peiste Ridge.
Our day will begin from Cronins Yard! We will make our way up to Lough Cummeenapeasta which lies at 651m and our scramble begins here to take us to the top at 869m. We can then decide what to do once we are up there and our decision will be down to the conditions of the day. The plan will be to do as much of the eastern reeks as possible. Weather permitting expect a long day!
Meeting : Texaco Garage 9.00am or Cronins Yard 9.30
Leaders: Denis O Sullivan 085-1743275 and Paul Hurley
C Innishannon to Bandon
This is a loop walk of about 10 miles and maybe three and half hours long. A
lovely road walk along quiet roads in to Bandon from Innishannon. We’ll also
walk along a short quiet country lane and a spell along the River Bandon.
Meeting Place: Innishannon community hall (near the bridge). 11am
Leader: Edel & Tim 087-2576260
Sunday March 4th
A Coomaloughra North - East Gulley
Situated south west of Glencar and west of Mullaghanattin, this walk starts off through fields, boggy ground followed by easy to hard scrambling up a gully to Coomaloughra Lake and then down a ridge to the valley again. Depending on the weather it can be extended to take in some of the rocky terrain on top, walking time about 4.5 hours.
Meeting: Texaco Garage Killarney, 09.00am
Leader: John Coakley 087-0508764
B Beannaummore
Beannaummore is an elevation standing high above the surrounding area with small summit area and steep slopes its near Dun Manmahai, its ranks as the 317th highest mountain in Ireland. Takes around 4 to 5 hours to climb.
We can carpool at Glenflesk as parking is limited by Lough Guitane. From the lake we walk through some fields until we come to the Glen where we start our climb. From here we climb this beautiful glen and come to a lake (lake Crohane). After the lake we start our climb to Bennaummore. If it’s a clear day we get wonderful views of Crohane and the surrounding mountains from the summit. We then descend our climb through another beautiful glen and walk back following the stream/river to our cars.
Meet: Glenflesk to leave at 10.00
Leader: Brid Callanan 086-3724477
B Toon Bridge :
The plan is to walk the silver Grove Circuit along the Toon river. Approx. 9km.
Meet: Toon Bridge : on the road to Inchageelagh at the top of the Gearagh 11am
Leader: Michael Kiely 0872740486
Sunday March 11th
A Cruach Mhor
We will start our day from Cronins yard and pass by Lough Cummeenapeasta and then head up Cruach mhor. From here we will make our way across the eastern reeks ridge over the Big Gun, Cnoc na Peiste and Maolan Bui. Depending on the weather and energy levels we can either descend the Bone or go as far the Zig Zags. All in all the day should take about 5 and half to 6 hours.
Meeting: Texaco Garage Killarney to leave at 9am
Leader: Rory Murphy 086-2221896
B Knockmealdowns (with an option B+)
Starting at the base of the Sugarloaf at the Vee car park we will go straight up to the top which will take considerable energy and about 40 mins. We will take our time! A lovely long trek then over to the top of Knockmealdown. This B walk will take about 4 hours. For anyone who feels fitter and up for more can follow Anne on variation that will add about an hour to the walk.
Meet The Vee Car Park 10am
Leader: Mary Power 087-2766885 / Anne Roberts
C Butlerstown, Seven Heads Walk
A loop walk, 5 miles, quiet back roads, a stretch of muddy famine track. Panoramic views over treeless country with Courtmacsherry Bay and the Old Head of Kinsale to the east. Heather and gorse, small rocky coves with pebble beaches.
Meeting: Timoleague Abbey 10.30am
Leader: Pauline Lynch 087-2709418
SATURDAY March 17th
B / C Mullaghamesha
Not a very high mountain but great views of Bantry and ocean all round. Walking time 4:30 hours. Distance 13km, Climb 580m. a variation can cut time by half. C walkers have an option to head back down the road which is easier. Refreshments after in the Village Inn Drimoleague.
Meeting: Drimoleague Centra to leave at 11am
Leader Michael O Sullivan 086 10414681
Sunday March 18th
A+ Coomloughra Horseshoe
Coomloughra is one of the finest horseshoe walks in the country. It includes three of Ireland’s highest peaks, Binn Chaorach, Corrán Tuathail and Cathair. We will walk up the hydro road to Loch Íochtair and then take the northern ridge to Screig Mhór. The Beenkeragh ridge which can be scrambled or walked has great views of the whole Reeks area. After Carrantuohill we will walk the fine ridge across to Caher and follow the gentle slope down to Loch Íochtair and the hydro road. The walk is about 12 kilometres with a height gain of 1200 metres. It should take 5 ½ to 6 hours at a fast pace . This is for experienced fit walkers only.
Meeting: Texaco Service Station, Killarney, 09.00am to carpool
Leader: Kieran O’Halloran 087 2907612
Sunday March 25th – Clocks go forward!!
A Knockmealdowns – 7 peaks
Heading east today we will meet in the Vee car park as usual but car pool to
the Liam Lynch monument where we can leave a few cars. Hopefully the day
will be crisp and dry to enjoy the magnificent views of the Galtees and the
Comeraghs making our way over the six peaks and preparing ourselves for the
hard trek up the final Knockmealdown to bring us to the long stretch back to
the Sugar Loaf and down to the Vee carpark!
Meeting: Garage outside Lismore on the way to the V @9.15 or at the Vee Ready to Leave 10am
Leader: Denis O’Sullivan 085-1743275
C Coom to Ballingeary
We will park in Ballingeary. The walk takes us to the highest point in Cork. Walk from Coom down into Ballingeary. Contact Henry for further details.
Meeting: Ballingeary GAA Grounds at 10am
Leader Henry Caulfield 087-9395884
Sunday April 1st
A+ The Eastern Reeks (Cnoc na Peiste and Zig Zags)
Suitable for experienced walkers only, this is one of the finest ridge walks in the country and scales six summits over 900m (3000ft). We will start the day at Cronin’s yard and head up Cruach Mor. We will more than likely descend the Zigzag ……or not??
Meeting: Cronins Yard, 9.30am
Leader: Rory Murphy 086-2221896
B Hungry Hill
The sheer bulk of Hungry Hill (686m) dominates its surroundings and, being the highest peak in the Beara Peninsula,acts as a magnet for hill walkers. There are a number of routes offering a climb to suit everyone’s taste. So depending who shows up and the weather I’m sure Harry will plot the route most suitable to all.
Meeting at The Cottage in Glengariff at 9.15 for breakfast and ready to depart at 10am sharp.
Leader: Harry Burke 085-1533811
C Carriganimme
A walk from Carriganimme to the Eastern Circuit to Moantflugh Schoolhouse.
Meeting: Carriganimme 11am
Leader: Michael Kiely 0872740486
Easter and Teneriffe trip
Sunday April 15th
A The Comeraghs - Coumshingaun Lough
The walk includes a lovely ridge that can be as easy as you want as there are paths around all obstacles or you can challenge yourself and have a go at some light scrambling. We will lunch at the top then head off again all around the Coumshingaun Lough
Meeting: Campus Garage Dungarvan, 10.00am
Leader: Evan Roberts 086 6004091
B Ballyhouras - Carron
Our starting point is at Ballinaboula wood. We will leave some cars at the finishing point in Glenoisheen. Our route will take us through forest paths and over open countryside to the top of Carron mountain. Then we make our way down the side of Carron and finish in Glenoisheen. The walk should take about 4 hours to complete.
Meeting: Great Gas Service Station Ballyhea, 10.30am
Leader: Dave Burke 086 2450082
Sunday April 22nd
A Knockbrinnea to Carrauntoohil
Today we will begin the day at Lislebane car park and head straight up Knockbrinnea. We will then make our way over two peaks before a nice scramble up to the top of Beenkeeragh. Here is a nice spot for a bit of lunch and a great view of the ridge that will bring us over to Carrauntoohill. Our
descent will be the heavenly gates! A tough day that should take us five to six hours.
Meeting : Texaco Garage Killarney 9am.
Leader: Denis O Sullivan 085-1743275 / Paul Hurley
B Windy Gap
It is a loop walk – part road and part open country. It takes about 3.5 to 4 hours and loops around the village of Glenbeigh. Views are spectacular from the high points.
Meeting: Glenbeigh, near church, 11.00am (about 20 mins further than Killarney)
Leader: Dave Burke 086 2450082
C+ Scarteen Mountain Trail
There is a climb involved in this – a gradual climb up the trail to Scarteen Mountain. We will take our time so any C walker should be well able for this. At the top we will have a panoramic view out over the Reeks (visibility permitting). The track can be rough so boots are advised on this one. This walk should take about 3 hours.
Meeting: Kate Kearneys
Leader: Henry Caulfield 087-9395884
Sunday April 29th
Spring Clean
April is National Spring Clean Month and MI are asking clubs to get involved. Our environmental officer Rachel will organize a walk combined with a cleanup. Details to follow
Leader: Rachel Boyle 086-3765466
SATURDAY May 4th
B Land of a Hundred Lakes
This walk was scheduled for Jan but had to be cancelled so here it is again. Start and finish at Barley Lake Car Park. Great views of Bantry Bay. Distance 11km, Ascent 520m. 3.30 – 4 hours. Refreshments after at Eccles hotel
Meet Glengarriff Eccles Hotel to leave at 11am
Leader Michael O Sullivan 086 1041468
Sunday May 5th - Bank Holiday
Sunday May 13th
A Mangerton – Horses Glen
If you have been out on B walks and find you have improved your fitness level and would like to be challenged then this walk is for you. Instead of the usual trek up to Mangerton, Declan will take you around the back via the Horses Glen. A great day and should take maybe five hours.
Meeting: Glenflesk at 09.30
Leader: Declan O Driscoll 087-2631288
C Coolea
A lovely circular walk along country lanes and some cross country. We will also visit St. Gobnait's Shrine which is on the route. Approx 4 hrs.
Meeting: Mills Bar Ballyvourney, car park, 11.00am
Leader: Kitty Heskin 087-6163572
Sunday May 20th
B Your Chance to Summit Carrauntoohil!!
Of course Carrauntoohil is an A walk, but this is an A walk day with a difference. If you have never done it before and would really like to give it a go, challenge yourself, then come along on this day out. At 3,414ft, it is the highest point in the country and a great achievement for everyone who gets to the top on their first visit. Jackie and a few other experienced leaders will come together and get you all to the top! There will be some light scrambling but nothing technical!! However that is not to say that the day will be easy. It will be a tough day and a long one and you do need a level of fitness that will keep your stamina up to do a six to seven hour day!!
Meeting Point: Texaco Station Killarney 9.15am Ready to leave
Leader Jackie Furlong 087-9281248
C Lislebane Loop / Hags Glen
The walk will begin from Cronin's Yard and will take you almost to the bottom of the ladder! We will take the 'High Road ' as such, to the left of the Gaddagh River. About half an hour into the walk we will begin to gain a bit of height and get ourselves up to around 300/400m. Walking all the ways into where the river flows into Lough Callee we will have two options. Depending on the weather and the group we may decide to trudge on into the bottom of the ladder or we can make our crossing to the other side of the glen ( not by water ) and will find ourselves on the usual path back to Cronins! And of course making full use of the two new bridges put in place for our easy crossings!!! As most of you know the terrain for the first half of our walk can be very wet and mucky so boots and gaiters are an absolute must and the walk back is very stony and rough in
Meeting Point: Texaco Station Killarney Ready to leave 10.30
Leader Henry Caulfield 087-9395884
Sunday May 27th
B+ The Nire Valley
This will be 5 hours over roughish ground. Through the Gap to Coum Iarthair, over to Crotty's Rock, up through the crack in the centre and back across the top towards Coumfea.
Meeting: Campus Service Station, Dungarvan Ring Road, 09.30am
Leader: Declan O’Driscoll 087 2631288
C The Nire Valley
Details later but Johnny will coordinate with Declan and arrange a C walk in the same valley and both groups can meet up afterwards.
Meeting Point: Campus Service Station, Dungarvan time tbc
Leader Johnny Burke 087 6670745
Meeting points
Killarney and around
Texaco Killarney. Take the ring road (N22) heading for Tralee and Killorglin. At the roundabout with the Killarney Court and Lidl take the first turn back towards the town centre. Right here there are 2 Texaco stations (on opposite sides of the road). We meet at the one with the grass roof.
Glenflesk. On the main Killarney road. Glenflesk is about 15km short of Killarney. There is a Top station on the left.
Kate Kearneys Cottage: From Killarney, take the N72 heading for Killorglin. Follow signs for the Gap of Dunloe. Kates is the café / pub at the start of the Gap
Cronins Yard From Killarney: Take the N72 (Ring of Kerry road) towards Killorglin. After Fossa Village, turn left for the Gap of Dunloe. Continue on this road for approximately 8km until you come to Kissane's Shop and Maxol Service Station. Go over a small bridge and take the next left (signposted for Cronin’s Yard and Tea Room, Carrauntoohil). Proceed to the end of this road, approximately 3km to Cronin's Yard.
Lislebane Car Park an alternate to Cronins yard as a starting point for walks in the Reeks. Follow directions for Cronins Yard from Killarney but don’t take the turn at the bridge. Carry on the same road about ten minutes. Look out for a left turn – signposted Lislebane.
Fossa Church Take the N72 out of Killarney headed for Killorglin. After Killarney Golf Club, Fossa Church is a small modern church on the left hand side.
Kerry Other
Kenmare: Supervalu in Kenmare town N71
Glenbeigh Take N72 out of Killarney towards Killorglin. Then take the N70 to Glenbeigh (signposted Caherciveen).
Comeraghs and Knockmealdowns
Campus Dungarvan: Take the ring road around Dungarvan heading for Waterford (N25). The Campus service station is on the 2nd roundabout.
The Vee Car Park: From Lismore (N72), take the Clogheen Road R668. Follow signs for the Vee Car Park.
Garage outside Lismore (N72) Brand?
The Galtees
Maxol Mitchelstown. Drive through Mitchelstown(N73) and head out on the old main road to Skeheenarinky. At the end of town is the Maxol Service Station.
Cork
Ballyhea Great Gas Service Station On the N20 (Limerick Road) between Buttevant and Charleville
Ballyvourney The Mills On the main Killarney road N22 – just before the county bounds. At the Killarney end of Ballyvourney on the right hand side. Plenty of parking
Corbett Court Kilworth (between Fermoy and Mitchelstown) just off the M8 (Exit 14) – take R639 into Kilworth. The landmark hotel is on the left.
Crosshaven : Car park Crosshaven Village (opposite Cronin’s pub)
Drimoleague. Take the N71 to Bandon. Go through Bandon and travel on the R586 through Eniskeane and Dunmanway. Meet at the Centra Supermarket at the start of the Skibbereen Road (R593)
Glengarriff Eccles: As you come into Glenfariff from Cork (N71), the landmark Eccles Hotel is on your right.
Glengarriff The Cottage: As you come into Glenfariff from Cork (N71), pass the Eccles and carry on into Glenfarriff. The Cottage bar / restaurant is on your right. They serve breakfast if you want to stock up for the