It's time to beat the trails of Northern Ireland

Take on a 9 mile or 18 mile hike through the forests and parkland on the edge of Northern Ireland's most dramatic mountain range, bound to mesmerize and inspire. This Area of Outstanding National Beauty is just an hour from the hustle and bustle of Belfast and our Marie Curie Hospice.

Whether you sign up to stride solo or with friends and family, the Beat the Mournes hike will be an unforgettable experience. We'll be with you every step of the way, offering tailored training plans in the lead up to the hike and waiting for you with a glass of bubbly and medal in hand as you cross the finish line.

Beat the Trails for Marie Curie and help people get the best care possible, to the end.

About the route

  • The route will set off from Kilbroney Park, a magical green space lying at the foot of Slieve Martin and its dramatic mountainous forest backdrop with lakes, forest, an arboretum, and even a Narnia Trail.
  • We'll pass the Rostrevor River before heading up into Rostrevor Forest to enjoy the woodland trails along the Mourne Way and St. Patricks Way.
  • The 18 mile route will continue along the the western edge of the Mourne Mountain range at Leitrim, which offers stunning views and some familiar dramatic scenery from Game of Thrones! 
  • Both trails will end with a descent of the Fallows Trail back down into Kilbroney Park where you'll be awarded with your Beat the Trails medal and the well-deserved glass of fizz!

Have a look at a map of the 9 mile route   and 18 mile route  . The routes are subject to permission and changes. In the unlikley event of any changes, we'll be sure to let all participants know of any updates to the route.

Event details

  • Distance options
    • 9 miles (start time: 10am)
    • 18 miles (start time: 8am)
  • Registration fee
    • 9 miles - £23 (early bird price)
    • 18 miles - £32 (early bird price)
  • Dates

    14 June 2025

  • Fundraising target

    £207 per person (this could help fund nine hours of overnight nursing care)

  • Location

    Rostrevor, BT34 3AA

  • Minimum age

    14 years. Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

Beat the Trails for Marie Curie and help more people get expert end of life care

Register now

How we support you

Fundraising support

  • Fundraising pack

    Filled with tips and tricks to smash your fundraising target

  • Fundraising support

    From the moment you sign up, all to way the finish line

  • Beat the Trails hub

    An online resource with kit lists, frequently asked questions, and lots more

  • Event resources

    Social media badges and materials to help shout about your challenge

  • Exclusive incentives

    Gifts to celebrate your fundraising achievements along the way

On the day

  • Refreshments

    Start line refreshments to power you up for the trek and rest and refill stations along the way

  • Expert guides

    Support from expert guides and the support team during the hike

  • Professional photos

    An event photographer will be on hand to capture the big day

  • Medal

    A medal and a glass of bubbly at the finish line to celebrate beating your trail

  • Merchandise tent

    So you can look the part as you beat your trail

Have a question about this event?

Ask away. We'll get back to you as soon as we can.

Contact us

Call 0800 716 146 or email beat-the-trails@mariecurie.org.uk

Frequently asked questions

Check out our FAQs for more details on our Beat the Trails events, from how to sign up to what to bring with you on the big day.


Marie Curie Nurse smiles as he speaks with a patient

How your fundraising helps

£32 could help fund an hour of hospice bereavement counselling. 

£60 could help pay for a uniform for a Marie Curie Nurse. 

£207 could help fund nine hours of overnight nursing care. 

£530 could help fund our Companions service to support a family at home for a year. 

Beat the Trails for Marie Curie and help more people get expert end of life care

Register now