Ben Gorm, the “Matterhorn” of Leenaun. ! 🏔
“Somewhere between the bottom of the climb and the summit is the answer to the mystery why we climb.”
Greg Child
Ben Gorm (An Bhinn Ghorm- blue mountain) is a 700 meter mountain near Leenaun, Co Mayo.
Exploring the breathtaking landscape and challenging trail of Ben Gorm, Co. mayo was truly an exhilarating experience.
Starting from the Aasleagh Falls car park, I was immediately struck by the majestic view of the ridge line route. While the traditional path through the gate beside the falls was inaccessible due to private property restrictions, the alternate route through the sheep gates at the car park provided an equally thrilling adventure.
From the car park looking up towards the ridge of Ben Gorm.
The initial climb up to the ridge line was filled with excitement, despite encountering a few wet parts on the lower slopes along the way. As I ascended further, the increasing steepness only added to the thrill of the climb. Upon reaching the crest of the ridge, the panoramic view was simply spectacular, offering a remarkable reward for this challenging ascent.
Getting to the ridge is the first step. Then I was greeted with a breathtaking vista of Ben Gorm's real ascent.
As I worked my way up the ridge the vistas began to come into view. Here the Erriff river and Aasleagh falls can be seen below in the Erriff Valley.
The climb up itself was demanding, especially when negotiating the 200-metre steep slope near the top, which is characterised by stony and grassy ground. I couldn't help but ponder the dangers that anyone climbing Ben Gorm on this section of the trek faces during wet weather.
The ridge line and the steep bit !
Looking over towards the Maumturk mountains through the Leenaun Maum Valley.
As I got near the summit, the picturesque scenery surrounding Ben Gorm unfolded a lot more. From the mesmerising western and northern views of the stunning landscapes of Mweelrea, Sheeffry Hills, and Doolough to the view towards the south of the Twelve Bens and the Maumturks, the vistas were a visual treat. Despite the intense sunlight causing photography challenges and because of me not bringing a filter for the camera lens, my attempts to capture the beauty of the surroundings were both frustrating and rewarding at the same time.
The ridge line heading steeply down the mountain.
Once up and over the initial characteristic-looking peak, as can be seen from Ashleigh Falls, the landscape transformed into a gradual rise that led to the summit, and I got my first sight of its distinguished cairn at seven hundred metres. Walking around the top of Ben Gorm, I was enveloped by an awe-inspiring panorama in a full three hundred and sixty degrees.
The first of three cairns and the 12 Bens in the background
The main cairn at 700mts
As I began my descent, I couldn't resist capturing more images of the stunning views that encompassed the area.
Mweelrea Mountain to the left, Doolough and the Sheeffry Hills. In the distance Clare Island and Achill.
The 12 Bens.
Reflecting on the day’s journey, the phrase “What an interesting day, a great hike capped with magnificent views” lingered in my mind. The sense of achievement and respect for nature stayed with me as I retraced my steps, heading towards the car park back down over the ridge.
Lugaharry Lough with the Lugayeran River flowing through Letterass to join up with the Erriff River.
Looking back towards the Ben Gorm heights on the descent down the ridge.
The valley of Glennagevlagh with the Devils Mother rising her head behind.
The entire adventure was an enlightening experience, to say the least, offering not only a physical challenge but also a deep appreciation for the allure and grandeur of Ben Gorm and surrounding landscapes. I departed with a newfound sense of respect for the majestic mountain and the remarkable natural environment it inhabits.
An interesting unusual rock formation structure I came across on top !
Carpe Diem