Path work in the Mournes

The stone-paved path, visible below the Mourne wall on the left, serves to prevent further erosion, which is responsible for the bare ground visible in the foreground of the photograph © Patrick Bracelli

Path work in the Mournes

A newly-constructed switchback turn on the upper portion of the Slieve Donard path © Patrick Bracelli

Path work in the Mournes

Work in progress: pitched stone steps with incomplete packing in the fissures between them © Patrick Bracelli

Path work in the Mournes

Even after just a few months of use, tools on the mountain start to look ancient © Patrick Bracelli

Path work in the Mournes

Slanted steps - difficult to walk on and more slippery in bad weather - which will soon be replaced © Patrick Bracelli

Path work in the Mournes

New stone pitching in the foreground, with level steps, and the older, slanted path further up © Patrick Bracelli

Path work in the Mournes

Drains are built into the path to stem and redirect the flow of running water © Patrick Bracelli

Path work in the Mournes

The new, level steps are easier for people to walk on © Patrick Bracelli

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The amazing views help make the hard work all the more enjoyable © Patrick Bracelli

Path work in the Mournes

A completed section of newly laid path, with a pitched and packed drain surrounded by aggregate-filled sections © Patrick Bracelli