Lake District > JC Challenge

The 15th annual Joyce Country Challenge will be held on Saturday 15th July 2023.

The Joyce Country Challenge gives you an opportunity walk one of Ireland's hidden gems. Taking the plateau of 'Maumtrasna' and the 'Devils Mother' this circuit of Lough Nafooey is an area of natural beauty often overlooked by Ireland's walkers. With outstanding views of the Maamturks, Mweelrea, Killary harbour, the Sheefrys and the Western Lakes.

There will be 4 routes on the day

The Joyce Country Challenge routes

Challenge (A walk): For the experienced fit and self sufficient walker 30km 1936m Ascent. Starting at Finny, on to Maumtrasna, Devils Mother, Ail Dubh (road - refreshments) Bunacunneen, Ben Beg,returning to Finny via the Southern Ridge. Note change in location of first Checkpoint

B Walk: This is a lead walk, leaving Finney and ascending Ben Beg and Bunacuneen, returning to Finney along the shore line path of Lough Na Fooey. Length 20km Approx, 1000m ascent, expected duration 7 hours.There will be a break for refreshments at Ail Dubh.

Walk C: Introduction to Hillwalking: This will take in the hill behind Finny Hall, which is 372m high and onward to Kilbride. Expected duration is 3 to 4 hours.

Walk D: Ramble: This will be 12k road walk in a scenic area taking view of Lough Mask & Lough na Foohey. It will be lead by an experienced leader with good local knowledge. Its all road so best to wear good runners.

Update - Start Times

Challenge (A Walk); Start time 06:30 to 07:30

PLEASE NOTE

Walk B (Intermediate Challenge) Sign on 7:00am to 8:00am. Start 8:00am
Walk C (Introduction to Hillwalking) Sign on 8:00am to 10:00am. Start 10:00am
Walk D (The Joyce Country Ramble) Sign on 8:00am to 10:30am. Start 10:30am

Registration: Entries taken on the day, or pre-register by emailing form and submitting payment online.

Download JCC details as Word doc
Route Description
For a GPS route file contact Patsy Cahalan at patsy.cahalan@gmail.com
Conditions of entry
Registration Form