The Mám éan Geotrail at the ancient pass crossing the Maumturks was commissioned by Joyce Country and Western Lakes GeoEnterprise, funded by Geological Survey Ireland GeoHeritage grant and produced by the JCWL Geopark in partnership with NPWS and county Galway RRO. It consist of 3 panels, two at either side of the pass and one at the col. These panels explore the geological links between the west of Ireland and north eastern America and the geotrail formed the basis for the inclusion of the whole Western Way national trail into the International Appalachian trail. The official launch of the Mám Éan Geotrail will follow 2 talks on the natural and cultural heritage of the area by:

• Brian McConnell, retired Principal Geologist at Geological Survey Ireland, on the wonders of the local geology and its links to North America,
• Frank Conroy, local heritage expert, on the history of the pass and the pilgrimage.

This event is free and open to all.

A following free guided walk over the length of the Mám Éan geotrail will take place on Saturday 20 Januray departing from Ionad Pobail an Mháma at 10am. Booking is required due to limited spaces on the bus.