Co. Sligo
Lough Gill
Intermediate
13 km
3-4 hrs
★
★
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Lake
About This Route
A Paddle Through Paradise
Follow in the wake of W.B. Yeats on this literary paddle to the Isle of Innisfree, immortalised in his famous poem. Lough Gill is framed by the limestone plateau of Slish Wood and the Hazlewood sculpture trail. The lake's still waters mirror the surrounding hills, and otters are frequently spotted at dawn along the wooded shores.
This 13 km route begins at Doorly Park, Sligo and finishes at Doorly Park, Sligo (loop). The waters here are intermediate-level, making it a great choice for paddlers seeking a intermediate experience. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife along the lake route.
Conditions are generally best from May - September. Allow 3-4 hrs to complete the route at a leisurely pace, with plenty of time to take in the scenery and enjoy the surroundings of Co. Sligo.
Route Details
Put-in Point
Doorly Park, Sligo
Take-out Point
Doorly Park, Sligo (loop)
Best Season
May - September
Water Type
Lake
Parking
Yes, Doorly Park
Facilities
Sligo town centre nearby
Permit Required
No
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Conditions
Current Conditions
Weather
16°C
Partly Cloudy
Wind
12 km/h
SW
Water Temp
14°C
Comfortable
UV Index
4
Moderate
Data refreshed daily. Always check local conditions before paddling.
Stay Safe
Safety Reminders
1
Watch for Wind Funnels
Killarney Lakes are surrounded by mountains that can funnel wind across open water. Check the forecast before launching and stay close to the shoreline if gusts are expected above 20 km/h.
2
Wear a PFD at All Times
The lake drops to depths of over 60 metres in places. Even experienced swimmers should always wear a properly fitted personal flotation device on these waters.
3
File a Float Plan
Let someone know your planned route and expected return time. Mobile signal can be patchy along the western shore, so carry a whistle and a waterproof VHF radio as backup.
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