Binn Chaonaigh is the first mountain on the second stage of the traditional Maamturks walk if approaching from the south. This involves a 400 metre climb up from Maumeen, which is tough enough going directly from the car park, let alone after a traverse from Corcogemore several kms away. The upper few hundred metres of these mountains are pure quartzite, so good footwear is needed to walk on the fields of shattered stone and follow the sandy trails carved out by countless boots.

The approach from the south to Binn Chaonaigh can be started from the car park at A (L893 495). From the car park it is a climb of 530 metres to the summit, which includes an initial 130 metre walk up to the col. Follow the good track up to the col between Binn Mhòr and Binn Chaonaigh, known as Maumeen, where there is a Chapel and Holy Well. Turn left to climb 400 metres up to Binn Chaonaigh over initial steep grassy slopes and then shattered rock. Care is needed throughout the walk as some sections are steep.

Any walk in the Maamturks should be undertaken with care as there are few escape options if bad weather descends or you get tired. Even in good weather you need to be confident in your navigation as there are sections where you are surrounded by rock and you need to be able to pick your route. Linkback: mountainviews.ie/summit/225/comment/4985/