The best MTB trails around Hay Island
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Mountain biking around Hay Island offers diverse terrain for cyclists. The area features a mix of rolling hills and forested paths, with some routes including significant elevation gains. The landscape is characterized by natural features such as viewpoints and historical sites, providing varied scenery for mountain bike trails.
Best mountain bike trails around Hay Island
- The most popular mountain bike trail is Tully Castle to Cliffs of Magho viewpoint and Ballintempo Forest loop, a 41.3 miles (66.4 km) trail…
Last updated: May 17, 2026
66.4km
05:16
1,030m
1,030m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
27.0km
01:44
180m
180m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
11
riders
18.7km
01:21
160m
160m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
A hive of activity, the marina at Castle Archdale is full of things to do. Why not park your bike and pedal on water on one of the hydrobikes? Kayaks, paddleboards and boats are also available to hire. Or if you're looking for a break, this is a great place to stop and take it all in.
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During WW2 Castle Archdale was a major base for flying boats and housed up to 2,500 people. Buildings such as these would have been a central location for the RAF fighters who lived here. Sometimes exhibitions are held in these courtyards to display some of the key historical notes of the use of this area during the war.
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A white beacon marks the location of Rossmore Point. There is a bench to sit on here where you can enjoy serene views over Lough Erne.
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Beautiful views over Lough Erne toward Tom's Island. Tom's Island is actually no longer an island, but once was before the lough was lowered.
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Old Castle Archdale is situated on Castle Hill within a 520 hectare coniferous and mixed broadleaved forest. The castle was built in the 1600s and was the main castle on this former estate before its successor took it's place in the 1800s, Castle Archdale.
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Take in the fabulous views of Lower Lough Erne from this point. Directly ahead you will see Crevinisaughy and Inishmakill island. These are one of the many islands found in this large lake system that is in fact widened sections of the River Erne as it flows towards the Alantic.
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Old Castle Archdale sits on a forest clifftop. It is named 'old' to distinguish it from its successor, the 18th century Castle Archdale. The castle was built by an Englishman from Suffolk who had been granted the estate in 1612 after paying 5 pounds, 6 shillings and 8 pence for the 1000 acres of land. During the Irish Rebellion of 1641 the castle was captured by Rory Maguire as part of the uprising to retake his lands that had been lost in 1607. The heir to the castle was saved by his nurse however the other children were killed. After the castle was returned to the family it was repaired and lived in until 1689. The castle saw its end during the Williamite Wars when the castle was burnt out and abandoned.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails around Hay Island?
Mountain biking around Hay Island offers a diverse mix of terrain. You'll find rolling hills and forested paths, with some routes featuring significant elevation gains. The landscape includes natural features like open viewpoints and historical sites, providing varied scenery for your rides.
Are there any easy mountain bike trails suitable for beginners or families around Hay Island?
Yes, there are easy routes available. For instance, the Horse Hill, Castle Hill and Necarne Castle loop is an easy 16.8-mile (27.0 km) path that offers a mix of terrain with views of historical castles and gentle climbs. Another accessible option is the Old Castle Archdale – Rossmore Point Beacon loop from Lisnarrick, an 11.6-mile (18.7 km) trail through varied landscapes.
What is the most challenging mountain bike trail in the Hay Island area?
The most challenging mountain bike trail is the Tully Castle to Cliffs of Magho viewpoint and Ballintempo Forest loop. This difficult route spans 41.3 miles (66.4 km) and includes over 3,300 feet (1,000 meters) of elevation gain, typically taking around 5 hours and 15 minutes to complete.
Are there any mountain bike trails that pass by historical landmarks or viewpoints?
Many routes around Hay Island offer views of historical landmarks and scenic viewpoints. For example, the Horse Hill, Castle Hill and Necarne Castle loop provides views of historical castles. The Tully Castle to Cliffs of Magho viewpoint and Ballintempo Forest loop specifically includes the Cliffs of Magho viewpoint and passes by Tully Castle.
What do other mountain bikers say about the trails around Hay Island?
The mountain bike routes in Hay Island are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 1 review. More than 10 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the mix of forested sections, open viewpoints, and routes passing historical landmarks.
Can I find any loop mountain bike trails in the Hay Island area?
Yes, several routes are designed as loops. Popular options include the Tully Castle to Cliffs of Magho viewpoint and Ballintempo Forest loop, the Horse Hill, Castle Hill and Necarne Castle loop, and the Old Castle Archdale – Rossmore Point Beacon loop from Lisnarrick.
Are there any castles or historical sites I can visit near the mountain bike trails?
Absolutely! The area around Hay Island is rich in historical sites. You can find Enniskillen Castle, Old Castle Archdale, Tully Castle Ruins, and Necarne Castle. Many of these are either directly on or very close to mountain bike routes, offering interesting stops during your ride.
What other attractions are there to see around Hay Island besides mountain biking?
Beyond the trails, the region offers several points of interest. Besides the castles like Enniskillen Castle and Tully Castle Ruins, you can also explore sites like Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones and the Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings.
How many mountain bike trails are available in the Hay Island area?
There are at least 2 mountain bike trails detailed for the Hay Island area, offering a range of difficulties from easy to difficult, and varying distances to suit different preferences.
What is the typical duration for mountain bike rides around Hay Island?
Ride durations vary significantly based on the trail's length and difficulty. For example, an easy route like the Old Castle Archdale – Rossmore Point Beacon loop from Lisnarrick can be completed in about 1 hour 20 minutes, while the more challenging Tully Castle to Cliffs of Magho viewpoint and Ballintempo Forest loop typically takes around 5 hours and 15 minutes.
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