Glossary

We've put together a list of terms which may help you to learn more about different types of trails and trail furniture.

Cycleways

Cycleways are long distance, multi-day routes which offer the experienced cyclist challenge and enjoyment. There are 7 signposted, waymarked cycleways throughout the Shannon Region. The cycleways are signposted using brown signposts. The Ways follow a mix of countryside, hilly areas, coastlines, and inland routes.

Difficult Walks

Difficult Walks tend to be on rough tracks/trails through old woodlands, remote valleys and some rugged peaks. They invariably involve some steep uphill climbs and a good level of fitness is required for these walks. Basic map reading ability is required.

Easy Walks

These walks are mostly on paths and tracks and can be walked in any weather, kittle or no climbing is involved, with no significant navigational difficulties. They are suitable for most walkers including beginners.

Eco Walks

EcoWalks are short walks which start and finish at the same trailhead and explore the wonderful biodiversity of the region.

Footbridge

Along the walk appropriate footbridges might be in place which give access across waterways (such as rivers, streams, drains and ditches) as can be seen in the image on the right. The safety of the walker should be protected by ensuring that the footbridge is sturdy and slip-resistant.

Hard Walks

Hard walks are suitable for the more experienced trail walker. They include higher, rougher, steeper and sometime wet ground. Stamina and experience of off-road walking are essential. Basic map reading ability is also required. In winter, the route should be well-researched and assessed in advance.

Loop Walks

Loop walks are shorter walks ranging from 1hr to 4hrs. They start and finish at the same trailhead.

Moderate Walks

Moderate routes may involve walking on more rugged ground with some climbing and some obstacles. In placed trail walking may require some skills. They are reasonably challenging walks, suitable for those with previous trail walking experience.

Stile

A stile is a pair of steps that is accessible to pedestrians as can be seen in the image on the right. Stiles are often found in rural areas or along foothpaths and allow access to a field or other area enclosed by a fence or wall. 

Treks

Treks are a 4-6hr walks following a section of one of the Ways. Treks start at one trailhead and finish at another and require pick-up transport to be arranged.

Waymarked Ways

Ways are long distance, multi-day routes which offer the experienced walker challenge and enjoyment. The Shannon Region Waymarked Ways are part of a national network of more than 30 approved Waymarked Ways in Ireland. The Ways follow a mix of forest track, riverbank, green road, canal bank, old roadway, grassy trail, sandy track and minor road. The Ways are marked using a mix of 1m high black marker post (pictured right) and brown signpost fingers (pictured below), bearing yellow arrows and trekking man symbols.