Walk in the footsteps of ancestors

THIS Sunday (July 28), hundreds of people are set to walk in the footsteps of their ancient ancestors by trekking to the beautiful peak of Mullaghcarn Mountain.

Tyrone folks climbing the 1,778 foot tall mountain on ‘Cairn Sunday’ annually is thought to date back more than 1,000 years.

In fact, the name of the mount, ‘Mullaghcarn’, translates as ‘the summit of the pile of stones’; referencing the deep-rooted practice of pilgrims, adventurers and hikers, over generations, carrying stones to the summit to add to the cairn there.

This practice is likely to have had a pagan origin, with people seeking to be closer to their gods.

In centuries gone by, Cairn Sunday was oft marked by participants performing religious practices at the summit, and, through time, sports days also became a feature of the ascent.

The age-old tradition, which was all but lost in time, was revived in 1997 by 300 hardy participants who rekindled the Tyrone event.

And today, in 2024, the Cairn Sunday walk is much-loved for bringing members of the community together amidst the breathtaking surrounds of the gorgeous landscapes.

Walkers are encouraged to begin the historic three-hour walk from the ‘Trail Head’ information sign at Gortin Glens Forest Park, located beside the café building.

Please note: This is not an organised event, meaning that those in attendance can begin the walk at a time of their choice throughout the day, and at their own pace.