Lough Carra Moore Hall Forest Walk

1.5 miles (2.4 km)

This loop walk explores Moore Hall Forest and Lough Carra in County Mayo.
The forest is located on the northern edge of the lake and contains a series of pleasant walking trails with fine views over the lough. This walk starts from the car park and follows the waymarked Moore Hall Forest Trail for a distance of 2.4km.
The route passes through mixed woodland made up largely of mature broadleaf trees, with oak, beech and ash prominent, and occasional clearings that open out towards the water.... As the path gently rises and falls, there are repeated views across Lough Carra towards the low limestone hills on the far shore, with the lake’s shallow, clear waters giving it a distinctive pale colour in good light.
A key feature of the walk is the atmospheric ruin of Moore Hall, a large 18th-century house associated with the Moore family and burned during the Irish Civil War in 1923. The building now stands roofless among trees close to the lakeshore, adding a strong historical element to the walk without requiring any detour from the main trail. Interpretation boards in the forest provide context on the estate’s history and management.
Lough Carra is a limestone lake designated for its ecological importance, supporting a range of aquatic plants and a well-known brown trout fishery. Birdlife around the lake can include waterfowl and woodland species, particularly near the quieter sections of the trail. The loop is clearly waymarked throughout and uses forest tracks and surfaced paths, making it an accessible walk with a mix of woodland, lakeside scenery and local history.
You can continue your walking in the area on the Lough Mask And Tourmakeady Waterfall Walk.