Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail

What You'll Find

If you've ever seen photos of the famous Stairway to Heaven in Fermanagh, this is where you'll find it!

Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail is one of Northern Ireland's most recognisable walks, with a wooden boardwalk stretching across the blanket bog before climbing a steep staircase towards the mountain plateau.

And the scenery really is something special!

The trail begins along a gravel track before reaching the wooden boardwalk, which winds its way across the open bogland. With the surrounding mountains, little pools of water and miles of countryside stretching out around you, there's plenty to admire along the way.

Keep an eye out for wildlife too. During the warmer months, you might spot dragonflies and damselflies around the bog pools.

The final section is where things get a little more challenging!

A long, steep wooden staircase takes you up towards the viewing platform, where you're rewarded with incredible views across the surrounding landscape.

But this is definitely one to plan carefully with children.

The full walk is approximately 7–8km return and can take anywhere from two to five hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop.

Although the boardwalk itself is lovely to explore, the distance, steep steps and exposed mountain conditions make this much more suitable for older children who are used to walking.

There's very little shelter along the route, and the weather can change quickly, even when it seems lovely at the car park.

You don't have to reach the top to enjoy the scenery either. If you're visiting with younger children, you could simply enjoy part of the trail before turning back, rather than tackling the full staircase.

It's a beautiful part of Fermanagh, but definitely more of a proper family hike than a gentle woodland walk.

Wee Ones Will Love...

• ✓Following the wooden boardwalk as it winds across the blanket bog
• ✓Looking out for dragonflies, damselflies and wildlife around the little pools
• ✓Counting the steps on the famous Stairway to Heaven
• ✓Reaching the viewing platform and admiring the mountain scenery
• ✓Enjoying the challenge of a proper mountain walk with the family

Before You Visit

This is a moderate to difficult mountain walk, best suited to older children who are comfortable walking longer distances. The route isn't suitable for buggies.

The main trailhead car park currently costs £6 per car and requires advance booking. Use BT92 1ER and follow the signs towards Marble Arch Caves and then the Cuilcagh Mountain Park entrance, as the postcode alone may not bring you directly to the car park.

Free parking is also available at Killykeegan Nature Reserve, although this adds approximately 2km to your walk.

There are no toilets along the trail itself. Killykeegan has public toilets, but check their opening arrangements before travelling.

Bring proper walking boots, waterproof clothing, plenty of water and snacks. The mountain is very exposed, with little shelter along the way.

Mobile reception can be unreliable, so make sure someone knows your plans before setting off.

Dogs aren't permitted on the trail, and visitors should stay on the designated route to protect the fragile blanket bog habitat.

⭐ Wee Adventurers Top Tips

• ⭐Don't underestimate this walk! The famous staircase is only the final part of a much longer route, so make sure the children are comfortable with the distance before setting off.
• ⭐Start early and allow plenty of time for breaks, especially if you're hoping to reach the viewing platform.
• ⭐If you've got younger adventurers, consider walking part of the route and turning back before the steep staircase.
• ⭐Pack extra layers and waterproofs, even on a sunny day. The weather can be very different once you're out on the mountain.
• ⭐If you don't mind adding a little extra distance, Killykeegan Nature Reserve offers a free parking alternative to the main trailhead.