Slieve Bearnagh, situated in the northern Mournes close to Newcastle, is one of the most dramatic of the country's peaks. It is topped by some huge tors, the highest of which must be climbed if one is a purist. Otherwise, it is enough for most regular walkers to reach the wider summit area of short grass and breathtaking views which include S. Meelmore, Donard, Binnion and much of the lowlands to the north.

N. Start at Meelmore Lodge at J30613 30801 A - secure parking for a couple of pounds or at the free car park at J31089 31306 B. From either place head S to join the well-worn Trassey Track. When you get to J31882 29120 C you have two choices :
a) continue S up to the Hare’s Gap, turn right and follow the very steep slope up to reach SB North Tor. Follow the track for another few hundred metres to climb up to the main summit of SB. [If you're finding it too steep, it's safe to veer a few hundred metres SW to approx. J31821 28054 D and to approach the summit from the SE.] Allow 2hrs+.
b) head SW along a good track to the col at J30909 28220 E and ascend SB via the v steep NW side. Stay to the right of the wall and zig zag if needed. Allow 2hrs+
Descend v. carefully via either route if not continuing along the ridge.

There are no other obvious direct approaches but it can also be climbed in combination with the 'Meels' to the W or with S'naglogh and Commedagh to the E.

Notable tracks incl. track/2107, track/2021 and for a tough but rewarding long day out track/3362. Linkback: https://mountainviews.ie/summit/83/comment/4843/