Cuilcagh’s trail for true hikers
The Cuilcagh Hikers Trail is a marked linear route that will appeal to experienced walkers who enjoy spectacular views and are interested in undertaking a vigorous, challenging walk in the wilderness. The terrain consists of a mountain path so some parts of the route can be very wet and boggy, particularly after a rainy period.
The Cuilcagh Hikers Trail is one of the walks on offer within Cuilcagh Mountain Park and is Section Three of the Cuilcagh Way, a waymarked route that stretches for 20.5 miles through a breath-taking patchwork of habitats in west Fermanagh. The route provides stunning views, fascinating geology, incredible wildlife, important archaeological sites and fascinating natural history. The trail can be walked in sections.
Walking Trail
As the route begins on the mountain there is no significant climb until the steep and vigorous 300m scramble up the mountain face through rocky outcrops. Arriving on the summit you cannot miss the ancient cairn (the remains of a burial mound dating from the Bronze Age 2,500 – 500 BC). The summit provides a great vantage point to view the picturesque lowlands of County Fermanagh and Cavan and on an exceptionally clear day you can see both the Irish Sea and the Atlantic Ocean along with several surrounding counties.
Please be aware
- Weather conditions on Cuilcagh can be quick to change and inhospitable all year-round making way finding difficult in poor visibility at any time of the year.
- Equip yourself for walking in a mountainous area, waterproof clothing, boots, spare clothing, map, compass, first aid, food, drink, etc.
- Cuilcagh is a working farm so be aware of livestock in the area.
- Mobile reception in the area is poor. Let someone know where you have gone and when you are expected back.
- In an Emergency – call 999 or 112 and ask for Mountain Rescue.
- Plan your visit, check social media for daily updates on visitors to the mountain, as the walk can take 8-10 hours on a busy day.
- No dogs are permitted on the Boardwalk.
Events or Walking Groups
For safety, conservation and insurance reasons, walk leaders and event organisers are not permitted to organise, advertise, or run an event of any nature in, or along any section of the Cuilcagh Way, where participants exceed 20, without prior written consent from the Marble Arch Caves.
Application forms are available from the Marble Arch Caves and should be submitted well in advance of a planned walk or event.
Please contact mac@fermanaghomagh.com for more information.