Manx Summit Walks

Be surprised at each turn and over every climb whilst discovering 360 views and magnificent hilltops steeped in Celtic heritage and legend, fern-filled glens and other hidden gems as you ascend 25 of the Island’s summits over 1000ft across eight scenic walking routes.

The islands awe-inspiring nature and rich tapestry of flora and fauna will come to life as you explore your chosen route. Whatever the season, you can be sure to witness breath-taking views; spring brings with it lush greenery whilst late summer rolls out a vibrant carpet of heather and western gorse. Walk as single routes or challenge yourself to complete them all over a period of 7 to 8 days.

Please take note before you leave

The routes traverse a mixture of public roads, public rights of way, permissive paths and unmanaged desire lines across open moorland. There are steep sections of differing gradients with surfaces rough in places. Users of the routes follow the summit routes entirely at their own risk.

Working closely with their land tenants, the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (DEFA) manages most of the Island’s uplands in a way that facilitates sustainable food production whilst protecting and enhancing habitats and wildlife. The commercially managed forests also provide the Island with a sustainable timber resource, wildlife habitats and offer a myriad of recreational opportunities.

Please be aware that whilst remote, the forests and hills are working environments and some of these routes may be closed or restricted at times due to forestry or agricultural activities, nesting birds and/or sporting events and visitors should follow safety and directional signage at all times.

We also request that particular care is taken when walking off the paths in bird breeding and lambing season which takes place between 1^st April – July 31^st, as ground nesting birds may be present and ask that you do all you can to prevent disturbing livestock.

The DEFA upland estate consists of uncultivated semi natural habitats such as heather moorland, blanket bog and acid grassland. The underlying peat soils are the Island’s greatest terrestrial carbon store, storing an estimated 20MT of carbon dioxide equivalent. These peatland habitats are sensitive as are some of the species they support and we ask that where possible you stick to defined paths and boardwalks where available.

Before your walk please check this network map for any closures or warning notices on your route. If you find a problem on any of the routes, please report it to the Department of Infrastructure through the Report a Problem form, or call +44 1624 850000, if the issue requires immediate repair or action.