[RWD version 1 ] Caution: ONLY consider doing this route in clear weather and after a dry spell. Many sections may be impassable after significant rain.
Park your car at the top of Mullaghanattin pass, and decend the road to the first field before ascending the northernmost spur of Mullaghanattin peak. Some clambering is required nearer to the top. The section from Mullaghanattin to Beann to An Corrán (Finnararagh) are straightforward enough with spectacular views both north and south of the range. Circle northward around Eagles Lough before ascending to Knocknagantee. After Knocknagantee things can get a little chaotic with boulder fields and bog interspersed across the range on the ascent of Cnoc Breasail, Coomcathcun, and Coomcallee. We were lucky to pass through during a hot summers day and after a dry spell, but I can only imagine how impassable this section might be during the wet season. Be warned!
As you descend to Esknaloughoge, the terrain is a lot easier, and a dip in the cool waters of Esknaloughoge Lough was a welcome break from the heat. Tall grasses can hamper your progress during your final descent to Staigue Fort, but the ice creams sold at the fort's cul de sac are worth it!