The Tourmakeady Waterfall Walk: A Little Slice Of Heaven In Mayo

The Tourmakeady Waterfall walk is a ‘hidden gem’, of sorts.

Located in County Mayo, a 30-minute drive from Westport, Tourmakeady Woods is a fine place to escape the hustle and bustle for a bit.

There are two walks to tackle here:

• From the town: Easy 4km trail that takes 1 – 1.5 hours
• From the car park: 2.2km trail that takes 30 – 45 minutes

Below, you’ll find a map of the Tourmakeady Woods walk along with where to park and what to see nearby!

Some quick need-to-knows about the Tourmakeady Waterfall walk

Although a visit to Tourmakeady Woods in Mayo is fairly straightforward, there are a few need-to-knows that’ll make your visit that bit more enjoyable.

1. Location

Tourmakeady is a small village on the banks of Lough Mask, surrounded by woodlands and streams. Tourmakeady Waterfall can be found around 2.5 km from the town, hidden amid the ancient woods.

2. Walk option 1

The longer Tourmakeady Waterfall walk starts from the town centre. Head to the community centre and follow the purple signs along the main road. This is a 4km trail that takes 1 – 1.5 hours depending on pace.

3. Walk option 2

The shorter Tourmakeady Waterfall walk begins from the car park at the start of the trailhead (here on Maps). This is a 2.2km trail that takes 30 – 45 minutes.

An overview of the Tourmakeady Waterfall trail

I’m going to give you an overview of the walk from the town centre. If you’re planning on parking at the trailhead, start from the second heading below.

Kicking the walk off

The walk officially starts in the centre of the town, with the community centre being a good start point. Face away from the community centre and turn left, and you’ll soon see the purple arrows guiding your way.

This first section follows the main road, passing through the traditional village. You’ll pass O’Toole’s Shop, a good place to stock up on hiking snacks!

Take a right onto the paved forestry road, and follow it for around 1 km until you reach the car park. Head for the information board, then veer right.

Getting into the trail

From here we head into the woods! Follow the path, and you’ll soon pass through a wooden gate. Continue along the forestry road for around 500 metres, until you reach a 3-way junction.

Pass the metal barrier, and take a left, following the path for about 100 metres. You’ll soon notice a woodland track on your right, take it and follow it along the shore of the lake.

Soon enough you’ll rejoin the forestry road, and you’ll take a left here. After around 200 metres you’ll reach another 3-way junction, take a left, and the path sweeps round for another 200 metres.

Take the next left and pass through the metal barrier.

Tourmakeady Waterfall

Follow the purple arrows as they lead you along the forestry road, now on the other side of the lake you passed earlier.

When you reach the 3-way junction, continue straight ahead for around 200 metres, where the sandy path ends. 

Pass through the wooden gate and join the woodland path, enjoying the beautiful scenery all around.

After another 500 metres or so, you’ll arrive at the majestic waterfall.

The walk back to the starting point

As you head back, follow the sandy path for around 1 km until you reach the Tourmakeady Wood car park.

At the information board, turn right and head back 1 km to the main road.

From here, you can walk back to wherever you’re parked.

Things to do near Tourmakeady Woods

The Tourmakeady Waterfall walk is wonderful, though short and sweet.

If you’re looking for other things to do while you’re in the area, you’re in luck – the woods are a stone’s throw from some of the best things to do in Mayo.

1. Cong (30-minute drive): Steeped in history and awash with nods to ‘the Quiet Man’ movie, there’s plenty to keep you occupied
2. Westport (30-minute drive): The town is one of intricate stone bridges and quirky shops, pubs, cafes, and restaurants