The route takes you along the side of Binn Shléibhe (Mount Gable) with stunning views of Lough Corrib on the lower side of the road. The walk is generally easy, with a steep climb at each end.

The first ruin you meet was the home of 'Maidhc Ned' who, like so many from the area, went to England in search of work. He is mentioned in Dónall MacAmhlaigh's book "Dialann Deonaí" (1960). You pass several old ruins, the remains of an old village. This reflects the layout of a typical village from around the famine times. The cottages were clustered closely together and very carefully located to provide the maximum shelter and exposure to the sun.

After a couple of hundred metres, you will see a lovely lake lying quietly in the valley. This is Baile Dhubh Loch which gives its name to the surrounding village. You then face a steep incline, but the climb is well worth it, rewarding you with your first view of Lough Corrib, which is the second largest lake in Ireland - it is world renowned for its fishing.

As you pass the 'vehicle barrier', you now join what is locally known as the 'Seanbhóthar'. It is not really known how long this road is in existence. According to local folklore, this is the route that St. Patrick took on his pilgrimage to Maméan, which is just west of Maam Village.