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About
Carrigan Forest is the gateway between two significant expanses of upland forest, tucked between Big Dog Forest and Ballintempo Forest.
This forest along with Ballintempo, Big Dog, Conagher and Lough Navar forests in west Fermanagh combine to form the largest continuous tract of forest in Northern Ireland covering over 8,500 hectares. The Forest showcases a landscape rich in limestone features, which is of great importance to the Geopark.
The most intriguing feature in the forest is the tranquil Lough Formal, sitting at 240m above sea level providing a great location for taking in the views of the hills Formal More and Formal Beg which flank the western shore of the lake.
Start Point:
H041494
Finish Point:
H041494
Route:
From the car park, follow the black route as indicated by the way marked posts. This takes you west along a short section of minor road, where the route then branches left onto a forest track. The route takes you through corridors of forest, opening up as you near Lough Formal. Take a moment to watch for woodland wildlife on one of the benches overlooking Lough Formal and proceed along the shores of the lough before making the short climb up Formal More to enjoy the views towards Lough Melvin, Donegal Bay and Cuilcagh Mountain. Retrace your steps to the junction in the path where you then turn right. The next section traces the Roogagh River and takes you deep into the forest before re-emerging onto the hill road. Please note: This Forest is managed sustainably by NI Forest Service. This walk is situated in a working forest environment and may be subject to diversions and closure from time to time.
Distance: 7 miles/ 11 km
Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Grade: Moderate
Terrain: All types, mostly forest track with unsurfaced path to Formal More
Route: Anti-clockwise circular
Wheelchair accessible: No
Map: Discoverer Series OSNI Sheet 17 Lower Lough Erne; Activity Map OSNI Upper and Lower Lough Erne
Dogs: Dogs must be kept under control and waste disposed of
The first part of the walk passes through a corridor of forest before opening up to reveal the tranquil shores of Lough Formal. Continue along the shoreline of Lough Formal and you will link onto a grassy path, which leads onwards up a slope of heather and sandstone boulders to the top of Formal More. From here stunning views of Lough Melvin, Donegal Bay and Cuilcagh Mountain can be enjoyed.
After re-joining the main track, retrace your steps along the lake and by turning right you can follow the course of the Roogagh River. This takes you deep into the forest before emerging onto the hill path that displays fine views of the rocky pinnacles of Big Dog and Little Dog.
Facilities: car parking, interpretation, picnic area and Lough Formal Walk.
Facilities
Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
