Scarke Loop
Grade: Easy
Distance: 6.7km (4.2 miles)
Waymarking: Orange
Trailhead: Lacken Hill Forest Entrance
Sat Nav: 52.403969, -6.879172
Parking: Lacken Hill Forest Entrance
Trail Description
On this walk along country roads you will come to the Forge Crossroads where you’ll find a commemorative stone outlining the history of Denn’s forge where pikes were made prior to the Battle of Ross. Keep an eye out for a flock of Jacob sheep grazing at the Queen Anne ‘Gate Lodge.’ During the summer months watch out for wild flowers creating a magnificently colourful vista beside the stream at the Ford of Scarke.
Don't Miss...
- The Forge Crossroads and commemroative plaque to Denn’s Forge
- Wildflowers in bloom
- Views of the surrounding countryside
Useful Trail Information
OSI Discovery Map Series 76
Grid Reference: S759 281
Ascent: 89m
Walking time: 90 minutes
Format: Loop
Surface: Road
Gates/Stiles: No
Start/Finish: Trailhead
Equipment Recommended: Normal outdoor footwear
Other Useful Information
Mobile Coverage: Generally good
Picnic Area: Lacken Hill Forest Entrance
Public Toilets: New Ross
Facilities: New Ross
Dogs: Dogs must be kept under control at all times. You must clean up after your dog if it fouls in a public place.
Getting Here
The trailhead is situated at Lacken Hill forest entrance. From the N25 take the L-8144. Turn left at the second crossroads onto the L-4007 and the trailhead is on the left. From the N30 take the L-8144. Keep left at the next junction. Turn right at the next crossroads onto the L-4007 and the trailhead is on the left.
These trails are located in Coillte owned forests.
Wexford Walking Trails clg appreciates the support and co-operation of Coillte under their Open Forest Policy.
Trail Grades
Trail grades give an indication of what to expect when out on a trail. The grade will give an idea of the level of fitness and ability required to use the trail.
Before attempting a trail, it is important to consider the grading to ensure it matches your ability and level of fitness.
Wexford Walking Trails are graded by Sport Ireland according to their criteria which is explained here.
Multi-Access
Flat smooth trails, suitable for all users including people with reduced mobility, wheelchair users, people with a vision impairment, using crutches, with a buggy, with small children, older people and so on. Normal outdoor footwear can be worn. Source : Sport Ireland
Moderate
These trails may have some climbs and may have an uneven surface where the going is rough underfoot with some obstacles such as protruding roots, rocks, etc. The routes are appropriate for people with a moderate level of fitness and some walking experience. Specific outdoor walking footwear and clothing is recommended. Source : Sport Ireland
Easy
Generally flat trails with a smooth surface and some gentle slopes or shallow steps. These trails are generally suitable for family groups including children and older people. Normal outdoor footwear can be worn. Source : Sport Ireland
Strenuous
These are physically demanding trails, which will typically have some sections with steep climbs for long periods and the going underfoot can be extremely rough including many obstacles. Suitable for users accustomed to walking on rough ground and with a high level of fitness. Specific outdoor walking footwear and clothing required. Source : Sport Ireland