The best MTB trails in Longford

Longford offers a diverse landscape for mountain biking, characterized by tranquil greenways, unique bog environments, and accessible forest trails. You'll find options ranging from leisurely rides on largely flat, traffic-free paths like sections of the Royal Canal Greenway to more challenging routes with elevation gains in areas like Corn Hill and Mullaghmeen Forest. The region is well-suited for cross-country and gravel biking.

Yes, Longford has options suitable for families. The Lanesborough loop from Termonbarry is an easy 36.3 km route that follows waterside scenery along the River Shannon, making it great for any fitness level. Additionally, sections of the Royal Canal Greenway offer flat, traffic-free paths ideal for family cycling. Center Parcs Longford Forest also provides a forest setting with various cycling opportunities.

For beginners, the Lanesborough loop from Termonbarry is an excellent choice. This 36.3 km route is classified as easy and offers a gentle ride along the River Shannon. The Royal Canal Greenway also provides extensive flat, traffic-free paths that are perfect for those new to mountain biking or looking for a relaxed ride.

While Longford may not have extensive highly technical downhill trails, it offers routes that require good fitness and provide significant elevation. The Loughcrew Cairns & Mullaghmeen Forest loop from Castlepollard is a moderate 52.7 km route with over 570 meters of elevation gain, offering quiet forest riding on hard-packed gravel tracks. Routes incorporating Corn Hill, the highest point in the county, also feature steep inclines for a more strenuous experience.

Many of Longford's outdoor areas, including the Royal Canal Greenway and forest trails, are generally dog-friendly, especially if dogs are kept on a leash. However, specific rules can vary, particularly in managed forests or nature reserves. It's always best to check local signage or the specific trail's guidelines before heading out with your dog.

Longford's routes offer several scenic highlights. You can explore the unique bog environment of Corlea Bog, which features the ancient Corlea Trackway. The Royal Canal Greenway provides tranquil waterside views, especially around Cloondara where the canal meets the River Shannon. For panoramic views across the county, routes that ascend Corn Hill are highly recommended. Forest trails through Newcastle Woods and Derrycassan Woods also offer picturesque natural settings.

Longford does not currently feature large, dedicated mountain bike parks with extensive networks of highly technical downhill trails. However, it offers excellent opportunities for cross-country and gravel biking through its greenways, forests, and rural roads. Areas like Mullaghmeen Forest and the trails around Sliabh Bawn (just outside Longford) provide structured looped trails suitable for mountain biking.

The Corlea bog — Royal Canal Greenway loop combines two distinct terrains. The Royal Canal Greenway sections are largely flat and traffic-free, typically on well-maintained paths suitable for all bikes. The Corlea Bog section offers a more unique experience, with mossy and potentially waterlogged grounds, providing a different kind of challenge and a distinctive natural environment to ride through.

The best time for mountain biking in Longford is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October) when the weather is milder and trails are drier. Winter conditions can make some boggy or unpaved sections more challenging due to rain and mud. However, many of the hard-packed gravel forest tracks and greenway sections remain rideable year-round.

Yes, you'll find amenities in towns and villages located along or near the trails. For instance, the Royal Canal Greenway passes through several villages where you can find cafes and pubs. Areas near Mullaghmeen Forest and Loughcrew Cairns also have local establishments. Lanesborough, a town on the River Shannon, is another good spot for amenities, especially if you're riding the Lanesborough loop from Termonbarry.

Parking is generally available at key access points for popular trails and greenways in Longford. For example, there are designated parking areas along the Royal Canal Greenway, and at forest entrances like those for Mullaghmeen Forest. It's advisable to check specific starting points for routes to confirm parking availability.

Generally, you do not need a permit for mountain biking on public greenways, forest trails, or designated cycling routes in Longford. These areas are typically open for public access. However, if you plan to cycle within private estates or specific managed parks, it's always wise to check their individual access policies.