The best walks and hikes around Drumaraw

Yes, the region offers several easier options perfect for families or beginners. Many trails, like those in Ballyhaise, follow gentle riverbanks and quiet roads. For a memorable woodland walk, the Belmore Forest loop via Pollnagollum Cave is an excellent choice, leading to a dramatic cave entrance on a relatively short path.

The trails around Drumaraw are generally easy to moderate. You'll find a mix of gentle riverside walks, rolling hills, and well-maintained forest tracks. While there are no technically difficult mountain ascents directly in the area, some moderate routes like the Hiking loop from Derrygonnelly involve more significant elevation gain through woodlands, requiring a good level of fitness.

Many trails in the area are suitable for hiking with a dog, especially those on public roads and forest tracks. However, always be mindful of local regulations. Some areas may have livestock grazing, and certain nature reserves or privately managed lands might require dogs to be on a lead or may not permit them at all. It's best to check for signage at the trailhead before you start.

Yes, there are several enjoyable circular walks. Loop trails are common in the region's forests, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. The Lough Blocknet loop from Derrygonnelly is a great example of a moderate circular hike that takes you through a varied landscape of coniferous forest and open bogland.

For a day hike around Drumaraw, sturdy, waterproof footwear is essential as some forest tracks and bogland paths can be muddy, especially after rain. We also recommend:

• A waterproof jacket, as the weather can change quickly.
• Water and snacks.
• A fully charged phone with the komoot app for navigation.
• Insect repellent during the warmer months.

The most notable waterfall is at Pollnagollum Cave in Belmore Forest. A viewing platform on the trail allows you to see the water cascading 12 meters down a limestone cliff into the cave entrance. This cave was also famously used as a filming location in the TV series Game of Thrones.

The area is well-regarded by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the mix of serene woodland paths, riverside scenery, and the unique geological features within the Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark. The trails are appreciated for being accessible yet offering a true sense of escape into the Irish countryside.

Yes, the region is rich in history. The Aghanaglack Walk in Ballintempo Forest leads to a prehistoric Dual Court Tomb. For a walk that combines history with town scenery, the Ancient Chestnut Tree – Enniskillen Castle loop from Enniskillen takes you along the river and past the historic Enniskillen Castle.

Besides the main trails, local hikers enjoy several other spots. The Mullaghgarve Mass Rock Walk is a well-regarded, moderately easy walk. For a beautiful woodland experience with lakes and ruins, Dromore Woods Trailhead is a popular choice. Another favorite is the Deerpark Forest Walk, offering pleasant trails through the woods.

The terrain is quite varied. You'll encounter everything from paved riverside paths and quiet country roads to gravel forest tracks and earthy paths through bogland. Most routes feature gradual climbs rather than steep, sustained ascents. Good walking shoes are recommended to handle the mix of surfaces.

Accessing trailheads directly via public transport can be challenging, as many are in rural locations. Bus services connect larger towns like Enniskillen and Ballyhaise, but you may need a taxi for the final leg to more remote starting points like those in Belmore or Ballintempo forests. Driving is generally the most convenient option.

Most of the established forest parks and trailheads, such as those in Belmore Forest and Killykeen Forest Park, have designated car parks. For walks starting in or near towns like Enniskillen, you can use public parking. For routes along minor roads, parking is often limited to informal roadside pull-ins, so please park considerately and do not block access.