TRAILBLAZING:THE FIRST EVER National Trails Day takes place on September 28th and is aimed at raising awarness of the expansive trail network in Ireland.
Ireland has a wealth of trails covering a range of activities - from easy walking and trekking to mountain-biking.
Events will take place in every county, at Coillte mountain bike trails and forest parks as well as on national waymarked trails and the Fáilte Ireland-supported national loop walks.
Minister for Rural Affairs Eamon Ó Cuív said this week the initiative will give everyone an opportunity to get outdoors and enjoy the rural recreation facilities on our doorsteps.
Coillte chief executive David Gunning said getting out and active in Ireland has never been easier because of a range of new and upgraded Coillte facilities. These include mountain-bike and family-friendly cycle trails in counties Wicklow, Limerick, Galway and Cork, as well as many new and upgraded walking trails across the country.
Fáilte Ireland chief executive Shaun Quinn said there is considerable potential to attract more visitors to Ireland for walking and cycling. Last year 488,000 overseas visitors engaged in hillwalking and hiking holidays and 110,000 participated in cycling holidays.
For information on events go to www.nationaltrailsday.ie . See also www.coillteoutdoors.ie