Discover the wilds of Nephin on Head Trek 2016

Anton McNulty

UP to 100 people of all ages are set to descend on the Nephin range for a free day of hiking and overnight camping in the wilds around Leterkeen near Newport.
Head Trek 2016, which place on August 20, involves trekking, camping, bushcraft, a barbecue and music in the wilderness, far away from the modern-day conveniences.
Last year saw between 80 and 100 people take part in the first overnight camp, and a similar number of people is expected to pitch tents on Saturday week.

Beauty
Local men Michael Chambers and Mark Rooney devised Head Trek as a way to share the beauty of the area while helping people escape stress and give their mental health a boost.
“The idea of this came during the recession, because this area is a great place to get out in and clear the head,” Michael told The Mayo News. “The idea is to organise something for people to get together, especially families, and enjoy the natural environment. Last year, there was a nice mixture of adults and families and we had a great time.
“This is a completely free event. We are inviting people just to join us on a hike and camp in this beautiful part of the world where children can enjoy the joys of nature and grown ups can get get away from it all,” he explained.
The guys from Mayo Bushcraft are once again involved. They will help people pitch their tents and teach them survival skills, such as lighting a fire and identifying edible wild plants.
At approximately 3pm, the groups are scheduled to head off and and hike around the Letterkeen loop, which takes in part of the Bangor Trail, and back in time for a barbecue which starts at 5pm.
This will be followed by the lighting of the main campfire, followed by a sing song until the stars light up the night sky.

Much to discover
Michael explained that the fast-pace of today’s world can mean that both young and old miss out on exploring the natural environment around them – and there is so much to discover.
“People are not aware of what is around us, especially in the hills around Newport, which has a number of different trails allowing people to lose themselves from modern life for a while.”
Michael wished to thank Sheridan’s Centra and Kelly’s Butchers in Newport for supplying food for the barbecue, Michael Conway who helps out all with his quad and Martin Dillane from Mayo Leader for their support.
Participants are asked to bring their own tents, food and accessories.
For more information contact Michael on 089 2070559 or see the Head Trek Facebook page.