The best walks and hikes in Ballypatrick Forest
4.6
(80)
518
hikers
35
hikes
Hikes in Ballypatrick Forest explore a landscape of mixed conifer and broadleaf woodland in the Causeway Coast and Glens. The area is characterized by a network of gravel forest roads and way-marked paths, offering routes across varied terrain. Many trails provide views of the surrounding upland pastures and towards Knocklayd Mountain.
Best hiking trails in Ballypatrick Forest
- The most popular hiking route is Loughareema loop from Church Bay, a 5.2 mile (8.4 km) trail that takes around 2 hours 15 minutes to complete. The route passes near Loughareema, also known as the Vanishing Lake.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Knocklayd from Drumavoyle Road β Antrim Coast & Glens, a moderate 2.8 mile (4.5 km) path. This trail involves a steady ascent with an elevation gain of over 330 meters.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the View of Ballycastle β View of Rathlin Island loop from Cross, a 2.2 mile (3.5 km) trail leading through the forest, often completed in about 1 hour.
- Hiking in Ballypatrick Forest is defined by way-marked woodland paths, extensive gravel forest roads, and open bog land. The network of trails offers options suitable for different fitness levels.
- The routes in Ballypatrick Forest are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 70 reviews. More than 470 hikers have used komoot to explore Ballypatrick Forest's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
5.0
(1)
2
hikers
8.35km
02:16
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(25)
150
hikers
7.76km
02:10
150m
150m
Embark on the Fairhead Loch Na CrannΓ³ige Walk, a moderate hike spanning 4.8 miles (7.8 km) with an elevation gain of 507 feet (155 metres), typically completed in 2 hours and 10 minutes. This route, also known as the "Blue Route," guides you through rugged and varied terrain, including uneven grasses, boggy sections, and farm tracks. You will navigate natural surfaces like exposed rock and trodden earth, which can be unstable, especially when wet. Along the way, you'll encounter stunning cliff-top views overlooking Murlough Bay and panoramic coastal vistas stretching towards Ballycastle and Rathlin Island, with Scotland's Mull of Kintyre visible on clear days. The trail also passes by historic loughs, including Lough na Cranagh, known for its Iron Age crannΓ³g.
When planning your visit, be prepared for the challenging terrain; sturdy walking boots are highly recommended due to uneven surfaces, potential boggy areas, and obstacles like exposed roots and boulders. The route traverses open land and active farmland, so you may encounter livestock. Weather conditions along the Antrim Coast can change rapidly, making preparedness essential. Take particular care near cliff edges, especially during windy conditions or in poor visibility, to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
The Fairhead Loch Na CrannΓ³ige Walk offers more than just scenic beauty; it provides a journey through a landscape rich in history and geology. You'll experience the iconic Fairhead Cliffs, Northern Ireland's tallest cliff face, soaring 600 to 650 feet above sea level. These dramatic cliffs are composed of dolerite, an igneous rock formed around 60 million years ago, featuring gigantic columns. The presence of Lough na Cranagh with its Iron Age crannΓ³g adds a fascinating historical dimension to the natural wonders you'll discover. Keep an eye out for wild goats sometimes seen roaming below the clifftops.
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4.8
(10)
66
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
8
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
1
hikers
2.90km
00:55
70m
70m
Hard hike. Great for any fitness level. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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Popular around Ballypatrick Forest
Tips from the Community
One of the real classic seacliff climbing areas with decades of histors and the tradiitonal climbing meet-up on the first weekend in June.
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Close to Northern Ireland's most northerly point, Fair Head has brilliant views of Scotland and Rathlin Island. Stunning on a clear day, fearsome when the weather sets in!
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From here, you can enjoy fantastic views of the beautiful Rathlin Island, located off the northeast coast of Ireland (and Ireland's most northern point).
4
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don't go too close to the cliffs, but stunning views
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Accessible by ferry from Ballycastle.
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Fair Head is a cliff top approximately 3 miles long and 200m high with sweeping views of Ballycastle.
2
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Magnificent view of one of the two lakes with wonderful colors.
1
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Stunning views from Fairhead to Ballycastle
1
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the parking and facilities like at Ballypatrick Forest?
The main starting point for many walks is the Horseshoe car park. From there, you can access way-marked trails. The forest also features a picnic area near its unique 'Irish Ford', providing a spot to rest. For the most current information on facilities, it's a good idea to check the official Ballypatrick Forest page on nidirect.gov.uk.
What is the terrain like on the hiking trails?
The terrain in Ballypatrick Forest is quite varied. You'll encounter a mix of way-marked woodland paths, extensive gravel forest roads, and sections of open bog land. The trails range from relatively flat paths through the trees to more strenuous ascents with rewarding views.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks in the forest?
Yes, the forest is well-suited for families. A good option is the Heather Bloom at Fair Head β View Over the Straits of Moyle loop from Church Bay. It's a relatively short walk of about 3 miles (4.8 km) on manageable paths, offering lovely scenery without being too strenuous.
What are some of the main points of interest to see while hiking?
One of the most famous sights is Loughareema, the Vanishing Lake, a geological wonder that can be full of water one day and an empty basin the next. The forest also contains a Neolithic 'Double Horned Cairn', a megalithic tomb that is thousands of years old and accessible from the forest drive.
How many hiking trails are there in Ballypatrick Forest?
There are over 35 designated hiking routes to explore in and around Ballypatrick Forest. These range from short, easy walks to more challenging, longer treks, offering plenty of options for all fitness levels.
What do other hikers think of the trails in Ballypatrick Forest?
The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars. Hikers often praise the mix of peaceful woodland, open views towards the Causeway Coast, and the well-maintained network of forest roads.
Are there any circular walks available?
Yes, there are several circular routes. The main way-marked trail is a 2-mile (3.1 km) circular path starting from the Horseshoe car park. For a longer option, the Fairhead Loch Na CrannΓ³ige Walk offers a moderate 4.8-mile (7.7 km) loop with coastal views.
Can I access the Moyle Way from Ballypatrick Forest?
Yes, the Moyle Way, a long-distance walking trail, passes through Ballypatrick Forest. You can join sections of the route from within the forest park, making it a great base for exploring part of this iconic trail.
What kind of views can I expect on the hikes?
As you hike through the forest, you'll get filtered views of the surrounding upland sheep pastures. On higher trails, the landscape opens up to provide panoramic vistas towards the Causeway Coast and the prominent peak of Knocklayd Mountain.
Is Ballypatrick Forest a good place for wildlife spotting?
The diverse habitats, from dense conifer woods to open bog land, support a variety of wildlife. If you're quiet and lucky, you might spot red squirrels, pine martens, or signs of deer activity.
How can I navigate the trails in the forest?
While there is a main way-marked circular trail, much of the forest is a network of unmarked gravel roads. Using a GPS app like komoot is highly recommended to explore the wider network of paths, keep track of your location, and discover new routes.
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