If you think you have a tough commute to work, spare a thought for the hardy men who are hiking Errigal every day to build the new mountain path.
The McGowan Environmental Engineering team is making great progress on a 3km upland path to the summit of Donegal’s highest mountain.
A small team of path making specialists rose to the challenge this summer, and have now reached the 600m mark.
While many of us hike Errigal for recreation, these men have to trek 2km with an ascent of 400m every morning before their work even begins!
A post on the ‘Errigal Mountain’ Facebook page today celebrates the team who have probably the most scenic lunch breaks in the country.
“Be sure to thank them the next time you climb Errigal,” the post said.
Rory Mackinnon from McGowan Ltd working at 600m above sea level on Errigal. Photo: Errigal Mountain Facebook
Brian McGeady, our second guy from Dunlewey working with McGowan’s on the Errigal path. Photo: Errigal Mountain Facebook
Gerard McBride, one of the local guys from Dunlewey working with McGowan ltd on the Errigal path. Photo: Errigal Mountain Facebook
The new path has brought great relief to climbers already as they can now avoid the eroded peat bog at the bottom (and any risk of losing a boot).
Stone steps have been placed on the majority of the hill, which had become badly eroded from the thousands of footsteps that displaced rocks in the past. As hikers will be encouraged to stick to the new path, the surrounding area will get a chance to naturally regenerate and stabilise.
The ‘Sustainable Access & Restoration Project’ is funded by the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme and managed by Donegal County Council.