Area: Co Derry
Distance: FOur miles circular
Map: Sheet 7 of Ordnance Survey of Northern Ireland Discoverer Series available from Land & Property Services osni.gov.uk or nidirect.gov.uk/map-shop-information.
Nearest town to start: Claudy
Facilities: Toliets at the visitor centre.
Publication: Guide and Trail Map available from the Visitor Centre.
Terrain: Some sections of wooden steps with three pedestrian footbridges crossing the Burntollet River; steep in places.
Walk Description: Follow in the footsteps of highwayman Shane O’Mullan and discover Northern Ireland’s highest waterfall during a walk through Ness Country Park.
Beginning at the visitor centre, located between Ness Wood and Ervey Wood, take the path down to the right past an area of ponds before crossing over the green metal Hone’s Bridge. Turn right alongside the Burntollet River; continue along this path and cross the second bridge to climb the 107 wooden steps which lead through mature woodland before turning left and meandering through woodland of birch, rowan oak and holly close to the river.
Follow the path across Shane’s Bridge over a narrow gorge where the river rushes through. Keeping to the right, continue downhill through mixed deciduous woodland before reaching a viewpoint. Take a moment to catch your breath and admire the view of what is said to be Northern Ireland’s tallest waterfall as it tumbles over black rocks through a series of pools known as Shane’s Leap. The brown water is evidence of the waters passage through peatlands.
Shane Crossagh Ó Maoláin (John or Shane Mullan) was an outlaw in the early 1700s (the Glanshane Pass is also named after him). The story goes that after clashing with soldiers he went on the run and to avoid capture jumped across this waterfall, breaking a leg in the process but still managing to escape. Eventually he was caught, arrested and executed in Derry.
Continue along the winding path as it leads uphill and meanders through the trees before reaching a turning point. Take a sharp left down a series of wooden steps towards the river before turning right to rejoin the path to take you back to the Visitors Centre. "
Responsible Walking: Please remember to practice the principles of ’Leave No Trace’ when enjoying the outdoors in order to minimise your impact on the environment. For more information, visit leavenotraceireland.org.
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