The best walks and hikes around Gortinure

Yes, the area offers several easier walks perfect for families. The Drumnaph Forest loop is a great choice, offering a gentle 2.8-mile (4.6 km) path through ancient woodland. Another popular spot is Gortin Glen Forest Park, which is highly regarded by locals and features a fantastic play area for kids and accessible trails.

For those new to hiking, the Glenshane Forest loop from Lisnamuck is an excellent starting point. It's a relatively flat 4.3-mile (6.9 km) trail on well-maintained forest tracks, typically taking under two hours to complete. It provides a wonderful introduction to the scenery of the Sperrins without any strenuous climbs.

Many trails in the region are suitable for walking with dogs, especially in forest parks like Gortin Glen and Glenshane Forest. However, you will be near farmland and areas with protected wildlife, such as Drumnaph Nature Reserve. Always keep your dog on a lead and be mindful of livestock and local regulations.

Yes, you can see a waterfall on the Carntogher Way via Altkeeran Waterfall hike. This moderate route includes a visit to the lovely Altkeeran Waterfall as part of its scenic journey through the Sperrin foothills. For a more significant waterfall, Ness Country Park, a short drive away, is home to one of the highest waterfalls in Northern Ireland.

Trails in the Sperrins can be very mixed. You'll find well-maintained gravel tracks in managed areas like Glenshane Forest. However, routes on the open hillsides, such as parts of the Carntogher Way, can be very wet and boggy, especially after rain. Waterproof hiking boots are strongly recommended for most routes.

Absolutely. Most of the recommended trails are loops, meaning you start and finish in the same place. The Glenshane Forest – Glenshane Pass loop is a moderate circular route offering great views. For a shorter option, the walk around Loughmacrory is a popular and pleasant circular trail.

Several trail locations have facilities. Gortin Glen Forest Park is a local favorite, featuring a lovely coffee shop on-site. Loughmacrory also has a cafe hatch for refreshments after a walk around the lough. For a pub, you would need to head into one of the nearby towns like Maghera or Draperstown.

Yes, the main managed parks and reserves generally have dedicated parking. Popular spots like Gortin Glen Forest Park and Drumnaph Nature Reserve have car parks available for visitors. Trailheads for routes starting in more remote areas may have more limited, informal parking, so it's best to arrive early.

Yes, the region is rich in history. The Priest's Chair via Glenshane Forest trail leads to a distinctive rock formation historically used as a secret mass rock. The wider Carntogher area, accessible via several trails, is also steeped in local history and folklore.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community. Reviewers often praise the peacefulness of the ancient woodlands, particularly in Drumnaph Nature Reserve. The variety of trails, from gentle forest walks to more challenging hill climbs in the Sperrins, is also a frequently mentioned highlight.

There are over 10 curated hiking routes immediately around Gortinure, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. These trails explore the local forests and the edge of the Sperrin Mountains. The wider region offers an even more extensive network of paths for all abilities.