Castlepook Loop

This is the ultimate loop of the Ballyhoura trails, being the longest and most demanding. It goes right to the southern fringes of the forest and presents you with the biggest climbs and most rewarding descents. Be prepared!

Trail Description:

This is the longest and by far the most demanding ride in the Ballyhouras and is most definitely not for the faint hearted or the unfit. Essentially you follow the Streamhill Loop as far as Waypoint 7 from where you follow the Red waymarkers in a long loop before rejoining the Streamhill Loop for the return leg.

This Loop includes the longest and steepest descent in the forest as well as the longest climb and the singletrack is both technical and narrow with very variable surfaces including loose gravel, rocks, mud, roots and water. The singletrack trails also feature numerous very tight turns, features such as small rock steps and elevated timber boardwalk sections.

This Loop accesses some very high ground and is exposed to bad weather so make sure that both you and your bike are well prepared.