The best MTB trails around Curragh

While the expansive plains of County Kildare's Curragh are known for general cycling, the mountain bike trails featured in this guide explore a more varied and rugged landscape. You can expect a mix of rolling hills, lough-side paths, and forest tracks, with significant elevation changes. For example, the Lower Lough Mcnean, Florence Court House and Cuilcagh Mountain Park loop features nearly 600 meters of elevation gain, offering a challenging and diverse ride.

This guide features 9 mountain bike trails around the Curragh area, catering to various skill levels. There are 3 easy routes, 5 moderate routes, and 1 difficult route, ensuring options for different preferences and abilities.

Yes, there are 3 easy mountain bike trails available. A good option for beginners is the From Killykeegan Nature Reserve to Florence Court House loop. This route is 13.3 miles (21.3 km) long with manageable elevation, typically taking about 1 hour 39 minutes to complete.

For those looking for a longer ride, the Aghanaglack Prehistoric Tomb – Meenameen Lough loop from Belcoo is a challenging option, spanning over 106 km with significant elevation. Another extensive route is the Ballaghnabehy and Shannon River loop from Blacklion, which is 33.5 miles (53.9 km) long and offers extensive views along the Shannon River.

Yes, many of the mountain bike routes in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the popular Lower Lough Mcnean, Florence Court House and Cuilcagh Mountain Park loop and the From Killykeegan Nature Reserve to Florence Court House loop.

The trails offer opportunities to explore a rich natural and historical landscape. You can encounter significant sites like the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail (Stairway to Heaven), the historic Florence Court estate, and ancient sites such as the Giant's Grave & Giant's Cave and Cavan Burren Park Megalithic Stones. You might also discover the scenic Cladagh Glen Waterfall.

The mountain biking routes in this area are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars from reviewers. Over 50 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the diverse landscapes from lough shores to forest tracks.

Yes, there is one difficult mountain bike trail listed in this guide: the Aghanaglack Prehistoric Tomb – Meenameen Lough loop from Belcoo. This route is over 106 km long and features more than 1500 meters of elevation gain, providing a significant challenge for experienced riders.

While specific parking details for every trailhead are not provided in this guide, many routes, especially those around popular attractions like Cuilcagh Mountain Park, typically have designated parking areas. For example, the Cuilcagh Mountain Park Car Park is a known facility in the area.

The region's varied terrain, including lough-side paths and forest tracks, can be enjoyed throughout much of the year. However, for the most comfortable riding conditions and to avoid potential muddy sections, late spring to early autumn (May to October) is generally recommended. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Absolutely. Many routes traverse areas with open landscapes and significant elevation, providing excellent viewpoints. The Ballaghnabehy and Shannon River loop from Blacklion, for instance, is known for its extensive views as it follows the course of the Shannon River.

Yes, some routes will take you through or near natural reserves. The From Killykeegan Nature Reserve to Florence Court House loop is a prime example, leading you through natural reserves and past historical landmarks.