Rossmore Park in Monaghan town is one of Ireland’s best-kept secrets. Nestled away in Ireland’s Hidden Heartland this estate is home to some of the most enchanting tracks and trails in the country. The forest park is located on the southern outskirts of the town, just off the Cavan road. This walking guide takes you along the Silver Lakes Trail and covers everything you need to know about visiting Rossmore Forest Park.
Key Details: Rossmore Forest Park
Location: Ireland, Monaghan Town, Co. Monaghan
Starting Point: Rossmore Car Park (54.22845, -6.99674)
Finishing Point: As Above (Loop Walk)
Difficulty: Easy
Duration: 40-45 Minutes
Distance: 3.5 Km
Rossmore Park Silver Lakes Trail
There are several marked walks to choose from in Rossmore Park. We chose the ‘Blue Trail’ also known as the Silver Lakes Trail. It is a looped route that starts and finishes in the main car park. The walk is classed as easy and is suitable for most levels of ability and ages. At a gentle pace, you can expect it to take between 40-45 minutes. It’s relatively flat but does have one steep climb towards the mid-section.
How To Get There
Getting to Rossmore Park is very easy. It is situated on the outskirts of Monaghan town just off the main Cavan road. This road runs southwards out of the town towards neighboring Cavan town. As you make your way out of the urban area you will see a turn to the left, signposted Newbliss and Three Mile House.
Take this turn and continue approx 500 meters out the road. Rossmore Park is clearly signposted on your left-hand side. There’s even a large reclining giant lying next to the gated entry to make sure you don’t miss your turn. Alternatively, set your Sat Nav to 54.22845, -6.99674, and head straight for the main car park.
What to Pack
This is a pretty gentle route. It’s relatively flat and contains no technical or challenging stretches. It’s just 3.5k long so you’ll not need to pack any specialist gear. Water is always a good shout. And, as the weather in Ireland is very changeable a light rain jacket or wind breaker always comes in handy. The route is a loop, so you’ll start out from the main car park and end up here when you’ve completed the circuit.
1: Comfortable Footwear
2: Waterproof Jacket
3: Water
4: SPF (Sun Cream)
5: Sun Hat
Starting Point: Main Car Park
The Rossmore Park Silver Lakes Trail starts from the main car park, just across from the children’s playground. It is signposted with a large blue information post, see above. This will be your starting point and your finishing point. The walk is a loop and will return you to the car park once you’re finished. This will be your starting point and your finishing point. The walk is a loop and will return you to the car park once you’re finished.
The Trail
Begin by crossing the small footbridge and walk straight up the small hill in front of you. You will pass some public toilets on your right-hand side. You will then emerge on the edge of a beautiful peaceful lake. This is the first of two impressive lakes you will encounter on this trail. The route is easy to follow and well sign-posted. Just follow the blue arrows as in the picture above. These are clearly visible at each junction and turning point.
Lake Views & Yew Trees
If you enjoy lake-side views and nested yew tree walks you’re in luck. Make your way along the southern edge of the lake and you will find yourself enveloped in a magical canopy of yew trees. Just like something straight out of Game of Thrones, the ancient trees shield the trail from either side and stretch across above you to provide complete coverage, even from above.
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Magical Wooden Sculptures
From here, make your way past the first wooden sculpture. On your right, sitting proudly atop a small mound is a wooden Giant’s head. Legend has it that these giants come to life after dark and freely roam the grounds of Rossmore Park. Only to return to their resting place during daylight hours.
Follow the path as it winds its away along the edge of the lake before turning left up a steep incline. This is the steepest hill you will have to navigate on this route. When you reach the summit, tale a sharp right turn, as indicated by the blue arrow on the wooden post. You will now be taken on a lesieurely downhill trail along the edge of the second lake.
Rossmore Forest Wildlife
Another treat on the Rossmore Park Silver Lake Blue Trail is the many and varied wildlife you encounter along the way. From the birds singing high in the trees around you, to the ducks and swans paddling away in the lakes.
There are even red squirrels nested in the vast woodland areas. The ducks and swans are the easiest to spot. They tend to stick to the water but are clearly visible as you walk by. Have your camera ready and you’ll get some beautiful shots.
Surprises Galore
The blue trail is stacked with lots of surprises along the way, not just giants. It’s a great place to take kids and set their imaginations free. Another one of my favorites is this wooden bird sculpture, tucked away amongst the trees.
It adds a touch of fun to the walk and they’re great for family photos. The weekly Monaghan town Parkrun passes by this sculpture. if you are here at 9.30am on a Saturday morning, you’ll see Monaghan’s finest athletes striding by.
Post Walk Refreshments
What about some post-walk refreshments? Fancy a drink or something to eat after your Rossmore Park Silver Lakes Trail? Well, you’ve got options. There’s a coffee dock in the main car park, next to the children’s play area. They offer delicious coffee, tea, and small snacks. And, there’s seating if you want to take the weight off your legs.
Alternatively, head into Monaghan town for something more substantial. There is an abundance of excellent eateries, cafes, and bars in the town center. Head for the central ‘Diamond’ and you will be spoilt for choice.
My personal favorite is The Squealing Pig. A bar that serves up cold beers and delicious food. The staff are incredibly friendly and attentive. And, there’s an outdoor seating area if the weather is good. What better way to round off our Rossmore Park Monaghan Walking guide. Enjoy!
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Rosa Montero
- B.S. Environmental Science
- Avid Explorer & Globe Trotter
Rosa is a graduate of the University of Arizona, where she delved into the world of green energy and environmental science. Originally from sunny Fresno, California, she moved to Arizona to study. Rosa is the proud owner of a vintage VW camper van. Her trusty companion on countless adventures.
She has a deep passion for clean energy and a love for protecting our planet. Rosa immerses herself in nature through long hikes in Arizona’s famous parks. Grand Canyon National Park and Sedona Red Rock Country are two of her favorites.
When not exploring on foot, she enjoys cycling. Rosa’s enthusiasm for fighting climate change and safeguarding Mother Earth shines through in her work for RV Solar Power Hub.
