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
Historic estate with marked trail outlining the story of the castle and the people who lived there 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
R179 Kingscourt to Carrickmacross Rd. Walking trail from Kingscourt (GAA grounds)
Scenic, historic forest park with walking trails (inc. access for all), nature, sculpture trail, picnic benches.
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
Killykeen Forest Park
Between Killeshandra and Cavan town
Wrapped around Lough Oughter. Walking and cycle trails, picnic benches and swimming. Coffee dock and toilet facilities. Home to CABU luxury lodges.
Distance: 7 km | Grade: Moderate
Terrain: Mountain and forest paths
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
Shantemon is home to Fionn McCumhaill’s Fingers – five ancient stones reputed to be the fingers of the mythical giant who lies asleep beneath the earth, ready to rise in Ireland’s hour of need.
The Killykeen Way
Distance: 12km
Terrain: Greenway along shores of Lough Oughter linking Killykeen Forest Park and Killeshandra
Trailhead: Killykeen Forest Park or The Pleasure Lake, Cavan Road, Killeshandra
A neogothic castle, tearooms and world famous gardens
Situated on the River Erne. 1km walking trail. Picnic benches. Home to the Dreamscape outdoor art exhibition.
