Killykeen’s Forest, Framed by Water
Killykeen Forest Park is a picturesque forest park located in a very scenic area of County Cavan, on the shores of the magnificent Lough Oughter lake system. The forest park consists of approximately 240 hectares.
Please note there is a car park located on both the Cavan town side and the Killeshandra village side of Killykeen Forest Park. Both sides are connected via a footbridge over Lough Oughter.
Walking Trails
- Distance: 2 miles / 3km
- Time: 60mins
- Grade: Easy
- Terrain: Forest track
- Route: Circular
- Wheelchair accessible: Yes
- Dogs: Dogs must be kept under control and waste disposed of.
The Killykeen Forest Nature Trail is a white waymarked route, with breathtaking views of the river. The walk is an easy, circular trail, making it perfect for all the family. On this walk you’ll have the opportunity to view a vast array of delightful wildlife, including the native Irish, pine marten. You’ll also be able to catch a glimpse of Clough Oughter Castle.
- Distance: 0.3 miles / 0.5km
- Grade: Multi-access
- Terrain: Forest track
- Route: Circular
- Wheelchair accessible: Yes
- Dogs: Dogs must be kept under control and waste disposed of
The Killykeen Forest Access for All Trail is an orange waymarked trail, perfect to enjoy with all the family. The route is much shorter and has much smoother terrain.
- Distance: 1 mile / 2km
- Grade: Easy
- Terrain: Forest track
- Route: Linear
- Wheelchair accessible: Yes
- Dogs: Dogs must be kept under control and waste disposed of
Gartanoul Shore Trail is a wonderful trail along the edges of Lough Oughter and the River Erne lake system. The trail is a blue arrowed, linear, waymarked route. It is also home to a huge variety of water fowl and birds, especially mallard, tufted duck and in the winter, wigeon and pochard.
- Distance: 3 miles / 4.5km
- Grade: Moderate
- Terrain: Forest track
- Route: Circular
- Wheelchair accessible: Yes
- Dogs: Dogs must be kept under control and waste disposed of
The Gortanoul Loop Trail is an extension of the shore trail, and gives you that little bit longer to admire the beautiful surroundings. The trail is a blue arrowed, waymarked trail and offers beautiful sites of the exciting plant life and wildlife of the Geopark. You’ll have the pleasure of talking in breathtaking views across Lough Oughter, and keep your eyes peeled for some red squirrels in the forest.
- Distance: 2 miles / 3km
- Grade: Easy
- Terrain: Forest track
- Route: Circular
- Wheelchair accessible: No
- Dogs: Dogs must be kept under control and waste disposed of
Cycle or walk the Killykeen Way through lake-dotted landscapes of Lough Oughter enjoying beautiful vistas, along winding country lanes. Start at the footbridge in Killykeen Forest Park and follow the signs towards Killeshandra via the upper trail on the Gartanoul peninsula. Perfect for the whole family to enjoy.