Walking & Cycling
Where to begin
Blaze your own trail in Cavan
Walk along lake-dotted landscapes or atmospheric forests with a flask of coffee and a companion or three. Visit the Cuilcagh Lakelands 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. Nearby, the Cuilcagh Boardwalk or ‘Stairway to Heaven’ is on everyone’s bucket list. Cycle the ‘Killykeen Way’ a gloriously beautiful 12km cycle trail linking Killykeen Forest Park with the lakeside village of Killeshandra.
Perhaps walk the 26km national waymarked trail, the 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 or take on the 35.5km Killeshandra Camino in mid June.
Distance: 5km | Grade: Easy
Terrain: Canal shore and forest path
Part of Fáilte Ireland’s Looped Walks Network
Distance: 5km Grade: Easy Terrain: Forest track, located at the southern foot of Slieve Rushen, 1km west of Bawnboy
The trail begins in the centre of the town, known as the Diamond, across from the historic Town Hall.
Blacklion Village is situated in the North West of County Cavan at the foot of Cuilcagh Mountain.
Distance: 3km or 7km | Grade: Easy
Terrain: forest path along lake shore around Castle Lake. Part of Failte Ireland’s Looped Walks Network
Marked 1km trail telling the story of the Demesne including Col. Edward Saunderson, the ‘father of modern unionism’
A self-guided walking tour of historic Cavan town.
Distance: 26km
Terrain: West Cavan Uplands
A stunning walk through the uplands of West Cavan
The heritage trail begins at the courthouse on Market Street and takes you along the town with maps, information panels and plaques outlining further information on key sites.
A bucket list experience. Wooden boardwalk to a viewing platform on Cuilcagh Mountain summit with breathtaking views. 11km Grade: Difficult
Recognised by UNESCO for unique geological landscapes, the Geopark spans the uplands of Cavan and Fermanagh. Year round programme of events.
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 – pay at gate.
A magical fairy forest dedicated to the memory of Erica Ní Draighneain, (2010-2016)
Bicycle hire of e-bikes, standard bikes, mountain bikes and road bikes. Delivery service offered.
Distance: 5K
Terrain: Forest path
A scenic walk to Flemings Folly – a historic tower overlooking Ballinagh with stunning views of the countryside.
The scenic looped walk around Garvagh Lough completely encircles this tranquil lake. Located on limestone bedrock, the lake itself is a rarity in these types of landscape.
The most challenging of these looped walks is arguably the most rewarding as it takes you through rugged limestone grasslands along the Cavan Way and offers spectacular views over the West Cavan countryside.
This short looped walk takes you through the adjacent townland of Moneygashel. The highlight of the walk is the wonderfully preserved cashel itself.
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 linking Killykeen Forest Park and Killeshandra Terrain: Tarmacked path
Trailhead: Killykeen or The Pleasure Lake, Cavan Road, Killeshandra
Distance: 7 km | Grade: Moderate Terrain: Mountain and forest paths. Incredible views.
Distance: 2km | Grade: Moderate
Terrain: Steep path
2km family friendly walk in the grounds of Cavan County 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.
