A new pathway has been completed to the summit of Donegal’s iconic Mount Errigal.
The pathway, including stone steps along some parts of the climb, was put in place to protect the environment and to help the thousands of hill walkers and climbers who ascend the spectacular mountain annually.
With its cone shape, Errigal is one of the most instantly recognisable peaks in Ireland. Overlooking the beautiful Poison Glen and Dunlewy, Errigal has become a symbol of Donegal.
Errigal stands at 751 metres, making it the largest in the Derryveagh Mountains and in the county.
The huge numbers of walkers and hikers who climb the mountain every year has had a major environmental impact on the landmark. As a result, in 2018, a survey reported serious concerns about erosion.
The study recommended that a pathway be built as part of the “Sustainable Access and Recreation Project on Errigal”. Work subsequently started on the £547,000 pathway in April 2022. The project involved closing Errigal for three days in July this year to facilitate a helicopter lifting operation to bring material to the upper reaches of the mountain.
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The Scottish company contracted to carry out the work, McGowan Environmental Engineering announced on Tuesday that the work has now been completed.
Contracts manager, Sam Hesling paid tribute to all involved in the project.
Mr Hesling said: “Delivering the Errigal contract is a testament to the hard work of our project team, collaboration with key partners and the service we received from our supply chain. Special thanks goes to partners Donegal county council and Ciardi na hEaragaile (Friends of Errigal) and key members of the supply chain, Skyhook Helicopters and Gillespie Quarries.”
