Scarplands Cycle Trail

The Scarplands Cycle Trail is generally classified as Difficult and an arduous, long-distance route. It's designed for experienced cyclists with a good level of physical fitness, demanding constant attention and pace control. It is not suitable for family-friendly cycling or road cyclists.

The trail primarily consists of coarse gravel and forest roads. You'll ride through forest breaks and vast open uplands, experiencing a remote, gritty, and windswept environment shaped by ancient geological processes and human history.

Absolutely! The trail offers stunning panoramic views, including unrivalled vistas of Lough Erne. Key highlights include the majestic inland cliffs and serene upland loughs. Don't miss the View of Lower Lough Erne from Cliffs of Magho, where you can see across Lough Erne and into counties Sligo, Donegal, and Tyrone, with glimpses of the Atlantic Ocean. You'll also pass by Meenameen Lough and the Neolithic Aghanaglack Dual Court Tomb.

The trail is best enjoyed during drier months, typically from late spring through early autumn, to avoid the wettest and potentially windiest conditions. This allows for better trail conditions on the coarse gravel and clearer panoramic views. Always check local weather forecasts before you go.

While the trail passes through areas like Lough Navar Forest within the Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark, specific dog policies can vary. It's generally advisable to keep dogs on a leash to protect local wildlife and livestock, especially given the remote nature of the trail. Always check with local authorities or the park's official website for the most current regulations regarding dogs.

The main trailhead for the Scarplands Cycle Trail is located in Belcoo. Parking facilities are available there. The trail is linear, but you can also access it from other points, particularly if you plan to cycle one of the shorter loops like the Aghanaglack Loop or Lough Navar Loop.

There are typically no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle the Scarplands Cycle Trail itself. As it passes through Lough Navar Forest, which is part of the Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark, general access is usually free. However, it's always a good idea to check the official website for the Geopark or Lough Navar Forest for any updated regulations or specific event-related fees.

Yes, the Scarplands Cycle Trail shares sections with several other routes. You'll find it intersecting with parts of the Ulster Way, the Lough Navar Lakes Walk, and the Blackslee Waterfall Walk. A smaller portion also overlaps with the Kingfisher Cycle Trail - The West Fermanagh Link (Ride 3) and the Magho Cliff Walk.

Given the trail's challenging nature and remote environment, it's crucial to be well-prepared. You should carry adequate food and water, as facilities are limited to the trailhead in Belcoo. Essential items also include puncture repair supplies, appropriate clothing for varied weather, and navigation tools. A mountain bike or gravel bike is recommended due to the coarse gravel terrain.

Yes, while the main trail is a 60km linear route, it can be extended to 100km by incorporating two shorter loops. These include the 21km Aghanaglack Loop through Ballintempo Forest and the 18km Lough Navar Loop, offering flexibility for different cycling preferences.

The trail offers opportunities for wildlife spotting in its natural habitat. Keep an eye out for various bird species such as cuckoos and jays. You might also be lucky enough to see red squirrels and swallows, especially in the forested and open upland areas.