Stage 1: 13.5KM | Run | Mostly Trail & Some Road
From the start line at Lough Inagh Valley, you’ll follow a stunning trail past the Maamturk and 12 Ben mountains, finishing through the Coillte forests behind Killary Adventure Centre.
Stage 2: 1KM | Kayak | Killary Fjord
The run brings you to the shoreline, where you’ll take on a 1km loop across Killary Fjord in a two-person sit-on-top kayak, shared with the next competitor.
Stage 3: 0.5KM | Run | Trail & Road
A short 0.5km track and road run brings you to the bike transition area at Killary Adventure Centre.
Stage 4: 36.5KM | Cycle | Sealed Road
Leaving Killary Adventure Centre, you’ll cycle towards Leenane, through the Partry and Sheefry Valleys on the N59, and on to Liscarney before turning left for Croagh Patrick. A steady climb leads to the Croagh Patrick transition area. Cut-off time: 2:55pm at the base of Croagh Patrick.
Stage 5: 4.5KM | Mountain run/walk | trail
Stage 5: 4.5KM | Mountain Run/Walk | Trail
Take on the mighty Croagh Patrick. This challenging 764m climb to the summit of The Reek and back will push you to your limits.
You must stay on the designated path at all times to protect ongoing restoration work. Any deviation will result in instant disqualification. Please also remember Gaelforce does not have exclusive use of the mountain on race day - be respectful of other users.
Stage held by kind permission of the Croagh Patrick Stakeholders Group.
Stage 6: 12KM | Cycle | Sealed Road
Back at the foot of the mountain, it’s onto the bike for the final stretch. Follow the sealed road to rejoin the N59, then continue towards Westport.
Drop your bike at the final transition, make the short run to the finish line - and you’ve done it!
Route Totals
Run: 18.5KM - A mix of grassy tracks, rough trails, sealed roads, bog, and mountain, including a 764m ascent and descent of Croagh Patrick.
Kayak: 1KM - A short 1km paddle on Killary Fjord in a two-person sit-on-top kayak (singles for the front runners)
Cycle: 48.5KM - Covered in two stages, on a mix of narrow country roads, off-road tracks, and sealed roads.
We would like to sincerely thank all our local landowners for their continued support of Gaelforce West, allowing access to this unique route and these remarkable landscapes. This event would not be possible without them.
We are proud to work with, and fully support, the Croagh Patrick Stakeholder Group in protecting the heritage and landscape of Croagh Patrick. Competitors must ensure to Leave No Trace - what you bring up MUST come down. Please also note: do not use Croagh Patrick to train for the race at any time...that would ruin the challenge!
This year marks the 20th anniversary of Gaelforce West - two decades since Ireland’s first adventure race blazed a trail along the Wild Atlantic Way. Since 2006, tens of thousands have tested their limits on this iconic course. Now it’s your turn to be part of the legacy.
To mark this milestone, we’re celebrating everything that’s brought us here: the grit, the passion, the community, and every unforgettable finish line.
Join us for this landmark event. Whether it’s your first Gaelforce or your twentieth, this year promises to be something truly special - a race to remember!
For route elevation, category climbs, and other route details check out this Course Profile on Strava.
Details of the final route will be posted here and emailed to all registered competitors 1 week before event day.
*Please note, the race route is subject to change based on weather and other conditions.
