AN INVESTIGATION IS underway following the destruction of a popular hiking trail in Co Mayo, due to a fire.

The Claggan Coastal Trail at Wild Nephin National Park, Ballycroy, will remain closed until “further notice” according to the national park. The fire occurred last Friday night, but the cause of the fire is still unknown and under investigation.

The Park added, on social media, that “cleanup and repair works cannot commence until this investigation is completed.”

The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is working with An Garda Sochána, Mayo Fire Service, regional Coillte Staff, the Air Corps and others to ensure the safety of those around Wild Nephin.

Claggan Hiking Trail after the fire Friday evening. Twitter / X / @WildNephin Twitter / X / @WildNephin / X / @WildNephin

NPWS said the fire on Friday night which appears to be set after dark either “deliberately or by recklessness.”

Niall Ó Donnchú, director general of the NPWS said “anyone who engages in this reckless, senseless behaviour should carefully consider the consequences of their actions, and will be subject to the full rigour of the law.”

The Claggan Coastal Trail is a 2 km loop in the national park that offers panoramic views of Claggan Mountain, and Achill Island. It was built in 2017 by the NPWS to provide access to the trail for all people, including those with limited mobility.

Christopher O’Sullivan, minister for nature, heritage and biodiversity, also said on social media that his department will put “all possible” resources into determining who or what started the blaze. 

“The loss of habitat is devastating,” he added. 

In a statement today, O’Sullivan also said he was “gutted” for the NPWS team and for the Wild Nephin National Park.

He added: “This destruction not only scars the landscape, destroys habitats and species but also deprives communities of cherished spaces for education, recreation, and connection with nature.”