The best walks and hikes around Drumhirk Upper

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the forest tracks and trails in the region, but they should be kept on a leash, especially in areas with livestock or sensitive wildlife. Always be sure to clean up after your pet to keep the trails enjoyable for everyone.

Absolutely. The region has several easier options. For a straightforward walk with minimal elevation, consider the Enniskillen Castle loop from Enniskillen. This 6.3 km route is mostly flat and combines town paths with pleasant waterside sections.

Yes, many of the best routes in the area are loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same place without retracing your steps. A great example is the Hiking loop from Derrygonnelly, which offers a varied 10.7 km circuit through the countryside.

Many of the forest tracks in Belmore Forest are suitable for families, offering relatively gentle gradients and clear paths. The main draw for kids is often the viewing platform for Pollnagollum Cave, which was featured in *Game of Thrones*. Shorter loops on forest roads are your best bet for a family outing.

The hiking within the Marble Arch Caves UNESCO Global Geopark is characterized by its unique karst landscape of limestone uplands and dramatic cliffs. Trails often follow forest tracks through areas like Belmore Forest and can include features like caves and sinkholes. The famous Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail is also located within the Geopark.

The Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail, often called the 'Stairway to Heaven,' is a very popular and challenging hike in the wider Fermanagh area. It requires a good level of fitness due to its length and steep final climb. You must book parking online in advance, and be prepared for changeable weather conditions on the exposed mountain.

For panoramic views, the trails on Belmore Mountain are excellent choices. As you ascend through Belmore Forest, you'll be rewarded with sweeping vistas of the surrounding Fermanagh countryside, including Boho, Lower Lough Erne, and Lough Navar Forest in the distance.

The most famous natural feature is Pollnagollum Cave in Belmore Forest, where a waterfall cascades into the cave entrance. The entire area is part of the Fermanagh Cavelands, so the landscape is dotted with interesting limestone formations, escarpments, and tranquil loughs like Drumhirk Lough.

The main trailheads, particularly for Belmore Forest, are best accessed by car. There are designated car parks available, such as the one for the Pollnagollum Cave walk. For very popular routes like the Cuilcagh Boardwalk, pre-booking your parking space is essential. Public transport options to the trailheads themselves are limited.

While the immediate trail areas are rural, the nearby towns of Enniskillen and Derrygonnelly offer plenty of options for food and drink. Enniskillen, in particular, has a wide selection of pubs and cafes where you can relax and refuel after your hike.

You can discover around 10 curated hiking routes in the immediate vicinity of Drumhirk Upper. These range from easy forest loops to more moderate countryside walks, offering a good variety for different fitness levels.

The trails around Drumhirk Upper are well-regarded by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the well-maintained forest tracks, the stunning panoramic views from Belmore Mountain, and the unique geological features of the Fermanagh Cavelands.