A New Chapter for the International Appalachian Trail in Donegal, Ireland. A 7km off-road section opens at Energia’s Meenadreen Wind Farm Extension, creating an improved walking experience on the International Appalachian Trail Ulster–Ireland.

Friday, 16 October 2026, was an exciting day for the International Appalachian Trail (IAT) Ulster–Ireland in County Donegal, with the launch of a new 7km section at Energia’s Meenadreen Wind Farm Extension.

I was delighted to attend following an invitation from Energia Renewables and Donegal Local Development Company (DLDC).

Passing through Coillte Forest and Energia’s Meenadreen Wind Farm Extension, this new off-road section offers panoramic views across Donegal Bay and the Bluestack Mountains, along with picnic tables and rest areas where walkers can pause and enjoy the surrounding landscape.
Most importantly, it takes the original IAT route off the road and into the forest, creating a more enjoyable walking experience and adding another valuable section to this remarkable trail.

It was great to see some familiar faces, catch up with people involved in the project and discuss the past, present and future of the International Appalachian Trail in County Donegal.

My connection to the International Appalachian Trail
This project holds a special place in my own history.
In 2009, I attended the first International Appalachian Trail meeting in Dublin, Ireland, and was part of the steering group and committee involved in establishing this walking route across the island.

In 2011, I walked the Irish and County Donegal section of the trail, experiencing the route first-hand and contributing to the development and promotion of this ambitious international walking project.

The IAT Ulster–Ireland was formally launched in August 2013 at the Ulster American Folk Park in Omagh, marking an important milestone in the development of this international walking route.

My involvement continued in 2012, when I walked and filmed the International Appalachian Trail across the island of Ireland, capturing the spectacular landscapes and scenery along the route.

In 2014, I returned to walk and film the route, producing three promotional videos showcasing the International Appalachian Trail of Ireland, the International Appalachian Trail of Northern Ireland, and the route across the island of Ireland. These videos highlight the remarkable journey from the spectacular cliffs of Slieve League overlooking the Atlantic Ocean in County Donegal to Larne on the north coast of Northern Ireland.

Watch the three 2014 promotional videos here:
The International Appalachian Trail of Ireland
The International Appalachian Trail of Donegal
The International Appalachian Trail of Northern Ireland

Today, the IAT Ulster–Ireland extends approximately 449km (279 miles) from Slieve League to Larne, connecting spectacular landscapes, communities and walking experiences along the way.

Having been involved with the trail from its early days, it is particularly rewarding to see it continue to develop. The launch of this new 7km section at Energia’s Meenadreen Wind Farm Extension is another positive step in improving the walking experience and encouraging more people to discover the landscapes of Donegal and the wider Ulster–Ireland route.

My thanks to Energia Renewables and Donegal Local Development Company (DLDC) for the invitation to attend and for their work supporting the trail.

Discover the International Appalachian Trail Ulster–Ireland

For more information about the route and walking opportunities, visit:
https://iatulsterireland.com/