Cuilcagh Mountain Boardwalk (Stairway to Heaven)

At a Glance

Distance

11.0 km (6.8 miles)

Difficulty

Challenging

Duration

4 hr 20 min

Walk Type

Peak, Moorland

Route Type

Out and Back

Off Lead Potential

None

Livestock Risk

Moderate

Facilities

Pay and display parking, toilets and information point at the trailhead.

Parking

Pay and display car park at the Marlbank trailhead, around 60 spaces, fills quickly at weekends.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is Cuilcagh Mountain Boardwalk (Stairway to Heaven) dog friendly?

  Unfortunately, Cuilcagh Mountain Boardwalk is not dog friendly at all — dogs are explicitly banned from the entire trail, including the lower forest track and boardwalk section. The restriction is in place to protect ground nesting birds and the fragile blanket bog habitat that makes this landscape so special. If you're in the area with your dog, nearby Marble Arch Caves and Florence Court Forest Park both welcome dogs on a lead.

• Can dogs be off lead at Cuilcagh Mountain Boardwalk (Stairway to Heaven)?

  Dogs cannot be brought to this trail at all, so the question of off-lead access doesn't arise here. The ban covers the full route from the Marlbank car park to the summit plateau, with no exceptions at any point along the way.

• What should I know before visiting Cuilcagh Mountain Boardwalk (Stairway to Heaven) with my dog?

  The key thing to know is that you'll need to leave your dog at home or make alternative arrangements — dogs are banned from the entire trail without exception. The Marlbank trailhead does have pay and display parking, toilets, and an information point, but these facilities are for walkers heading out without dogs. If you're based locally and looking for a good walk with your dog, Florence Court Forest Park and Marble Arch Caves are both nearby and dog friendly on a lead.

Cuilcagh Boardwalk Car Park, Marlbank Road

54.2353, -7.8219