In our series on walkways and trails to discover and enjoy across Ireland, Fashion and Features journalist Megan Fox shares everything you need to know before hiking the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail.
The official name of this route is actually Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail, but people started calling it “Stairway to Heaven” because of the dramatic wooden staircase near the top that rises steeply into the sky. On misty days it looks like it disappears into the clouds.
Unfortunately, dogs are not permitted on this trail due to environmental protection and livestock in this vicinity, so if you have a furry friend they may need to stay at home.
Getting there and parking
Park at the Cuilcagh Boardwalk car park (Legnabrocky) you must pay a fee of £6 per three hours. Pre-booking is also advised at theboardwalk.ie as this can get very busy. Alternatively, you can use the Killykeegan Nature Reserve car park for free but it will add on approx. 1km to the beginning of your walk. There also toilets at the paid carpark.
Routes and accessibility
Start on the gravel track which will lead you to the boardwalk section. After the boardwalk, you’ll reach the “staircase” section where around 450 wooden steps lead you to the viewpoint. This is the most strenuous part, but the views are most definitely worth it. This is also a great spot for a small snack or picnic. The trail is a simple out and back on the same track. It is roughly an 11km walk that would take about 3.5 hours to the top and back down. Due to the nature of the steep steps, it is not the most accessible of walks and would be viewed as a moderate climb.
Bite to eat
MacNean House and Restaurant in Blacklion, Co Cavan owned by Neven Maguire is about a 12-minute drive away for some awards winning grub after a long hike. Enniskillen is also about a 20 -minute drive away and has many options too.
Where to stay
If you are travelling from afar and want to make a night of it, the Killyhevlin lakeside hotel and lodges are a more affordable stay in the area starting at £65 per night for bed and breakfast. Complete with a gorgeous spa and swimming pool it is a great spot to relax after a lot of outdoor exercise.
