Politicians from both sides of the border are calling on everyone to go trail blazing on October 4th and enjoy some of the best countryside in Europe.
According to the event's website www.nationaltraildays.ie the day is “a celebration of Ireland’s wonderful variety of trails and a chance for everyone to enjoy some of our most beautiful countryside, forests, mountains and lakes.”
Last year's event had around 6,000 participants who took part in a variety of ways at over 67 events held across the country. Last year's event had “bat walks”, mountain bike cycles, family orienteering, Leave No Trace hikes, and trail conservation work. This year it is hoped that even more people take up the challenge, be it on land or water.
At the launch of National Trails Day, Minister Eamonn Ó Cuív TD, Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs acknowledged the work that has been undertaken through the walks scheme by his own department over the last few years as well as Coillte, Fáilte Ireland and the Sports Council who have also developed trails. “National Trails Day is an opportunity for everyone to get out and experience the trails for themselves,” said Mr Ó Cuív.
Michelle Gildernew MP, MLA, Minister for Agriculture and Rural Development who was also at the launch said, "I am delighted that National Trails Day is now being celebrated in the north and we hope that many families will avail of the forests and trails that we have to offer.”
This year's event will encompass the whole of Ireland in the first All-Ireland National Trails Day. A plethora of organisations have helped to organise the activities and make the day accessible to all.
This year will see the introduction of water sports with canoe trail on Lough Erne. Other activities such as mountain biking, trail conservation work, nature and heritage walks, family orienteering and family cycling will take place. There will also be a walk in the world famous Aillwee caves beneath the Burren in Co Clare, and a series off-shore events on Bear Island, Co Cork, Árainn Mhór Co Donegal and Inishbofin, Co Galway.
Organisers remind you to bring your camera and submit your photos to their photo competition.
|
|
|
