Walking & Cycling
Where to begin
Cavan is a walker's place.
Walk along lake-dotted landscapes or atmospheric forests with a flask of coffee and a companion or three. Visit the UNESCO Geopark, a special place spanning the uplands of Cavan and Fermanagh. A highlight is Cavan Burren Park and its four marked trails. By foot, Neolithic Ireland reveals itself quietly as you stroll along. Cycle the ‘Killykeen Way’ a gloriously beautiful 12km cycle trail linking Killykeen Forest Park with the village of Killeshandra.
Perhaps walk the 26km Cavan Way from Dowra to Blacklion past the Shannon Pot – the source of the mighty River Shannon.
Download the Cavan Walking Guide for maps and information and keep an eye out for the Cavan Walking Festival which takes place every May.
Distance: 5km | Grade: Easy
Terrain: Canal shore and forest path
Part of Fáilte Ireland’s Looped Walks Network
Located at the southern foot of Slieve Rushen, 1km west of Bawnboy, this 5km looped walk, offers a moderate grade of walking for visitors.
Distance: 3km or 7km | Grade: Easy
Terrain: forest park and lake shore on secure paths around the Castle Lake.
Part of Failte Ireland’s Looped Walks Network
Marked trail telling the story of the castle and its people including Col. Edward Saunderson, the ‘father of modern unionism’
Distance: 4 trails / 10km in total
Terrain: Accessible, boardwalk through megalithic landscapes
Distance: 26km
Terrain: West Cavan Uplands
A stunning walk through the uplands of West Cavan
Distance: 5.5km | Grade: Easy Terrain: Lakeshore & forest path. A Sli na Slainte route
Scenic, historic forest park with walking trails, sculpture trail, picnic benches. €5 adm per car. Walking link from Kingscourt (GAA grounds).
A magical fairy forest dedicated to the memory of Erica Ní Draighneain, (2010-2016)
Distance: 5K
Terrain: Forest path
A scenic walk to Flemings Folly – a historic tower overlooking Ballinagh with stunning views of the countryside.
Distance: 6km
Grade: Easy/Moderate
Terrain: Forest path
Part of Failte Ireland’s Looped Walks Network
Wrapped around Lough Oughter. Walking and cycle trails inc the Killykeen Way greenway, picnic benches, lake swimming, coffee, toilets. Home to CABU lodges.
Distance: 12km greenway along lakeshore linking Killykeen Forest Park and Killeshandra
Trailhead: Killykeen or The Pleasure Lake, Cavan Road, Killeshandra
Distance: 7 km | Grade: Moderate Terrain: Mountain and forest paths. Incredible views.
Recognised by UNESCO for unique geological landscapes, the Geopark spans the uplands of Cavan and Fermanagh.
Distance: 2km | Grade: Moderate
Terrain: Steep path
Short 2km family friendly walk in the grounds of the museum. Children’s playground, coffee shop, WW1 Trench Experience and GPO outdoor experience also available.
Distance: 7 km | Grade: Moderate Terrain: Minor road and trackway
Start at St. Patrick’s Hall in Glangevlin
Fionn McCumhaill’s Fingers – five ancient stones reputed to belong to a mythical giant who lies asleep beneath the earth.
A neogothic castle, tearooms and world famous gardens
1km walking trail along the River Erne. Picnic benches. Home to the Dreamscape outdoor art exhibition.
