Mourne Tips for an Absolute Novice

[phil_b]

snow as high as the wall on Comedagh, crampons not necessary. Fresh snow is grand, if it lies a while and freezes on paths it could be worse.

Mournes17-3-13prs3 by Philip Blair's Photos, on Flickr

[Darran]

Just out off curiosity, is much of the running water in the mountains drinkable?

[Rich.H]

Just out off curiosity, is much of the running water in the mountains drinkable?

As they are mainly peat then most of the Mournes would naturally be well filtered for water and give you good clean stuff. However due to the amount of sheep up there, you can never really know what is "upstream" from where you are getting your water. Whether it is a chemical wash off or a dead animal you are taking a risk even up there with water. I have had no real trouble with getting water from the larger fast flowing streams, but now make it a rule to put all my water through a filter just to be safe. Last thing you need is your time outdoors ruined due to a dicky stomach.

[LandyLiam]

I used to drink it a lot and never had any problems but I've since heard about a few bad experiences from others so i wouldn't touch it except in a dire emergency, especially in the spring as a lot of sheep seem to get trapped in the rivers when they fall through during snow and die there.

[whoRya]

I have the Sawyer Mini water filter and it is excellent.  I'm still happy to boil and use the water from the streams though.

[Darran]

Very good advice! Think I'll steer clear!