The best MTB trails around Drumsurn Upper
57
riders
3
rides
Mountain biking around Drumsurn Upper offers varied terrain at the foot of Donald's Hill and on the edge of the Sperrin Mountains. This region in County Londonderry, Northern Ireland, is characterized by its valley views and access to mountainous landscapes. The area provides a mix of challenging ascents and scenic routes, making it suitable for different levels of mountain biking. Its proximity to established trail networks in the wider Sperrin Mountains region further enhances its appeal for outdoor activities.
Bestβ¦
Last updated: July 1, 2026
22
riders
52.9km
03:56
790m
790m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
25
riders
51.8km
03:51
870m
860m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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7
riders
28.2km
02:09
360m
360m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
26.5km
01:32
120m
120m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
riders
39.9km
02:51
590m
590m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
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Tips from the Community
The way this church has been known has varied over time, starting with the name Tamhlacht Oirthear Arda, then Teampall ChadΓ‘in or St. Cadan's Church, and ending with the current name. The oldest remains date back to the 13th century, although there is also an ancient holy well, indicating that this place was a spiritual site before Christianity.
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In this stretch of the road, if you look to the north, you can easily spot a beautiful building. It's the church of Tamlaghtard. Did you know that it is said to have been founded by St. Patrick?
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This statue is located right next to the parking area and is easily accessible. The statue represents this sea god from Irish mythology overlooking the channel toward Greencastle, and from here, you can observe the beautiful countryside that surrounds you.
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Manannan Mac Lir is mythical Irish sea god, said to be a warrior and king of the otherworld. The statue of this king is situated on a hill in the Binevenagh AONB, overlooking the channel toward Greencastle, providing some absoloutely breathtaking views across the surrounding countryside. After your energy-consuming journey up this hill you'll definitely need a rest, so take a seat and take it all in before heading back to your starting point.
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Here lies a beautiful weaved structure of a pair of deer, one of the many fun and fascinating discoveries of the Garvagh Forest.
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It's quite an unusual experience stumbling into a pyramid in the middle of an Irish forest! This pyramid was built in the 19th century as a burial chamber for Lord Garvagh and is a lovelly feature to the forest today.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are available around Drumsurn Upper?
Komoot features 4 mountain bike trails around Drumsurn Upper. These routes offer a mix of difficulties, with 2 easy and 2 difficult options, catering to various skill levels.
Are there mountain bike trails suitable for beginners or families in Drumsurn Upper?
Yes, there are options for beginners and families. For an easier ride, consider the Garvagh Forest Red Trail β Garvagh Pyramid loop from Garvagh, which is 3.8 miles (6.2 km) long and typically takes about 32 minutes. Another easy option is the Graffiti Art loop from Limavady, covering 26.5 km.
What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails near Drumsurn Upper?
Mountain biking around Drumsurn Upper offers varied terrain, characterized by valley views, forest paths, and the foothills of the Sperrin Mountains. You'll find a mix of challenging ascents and scenic routes, with trails leading through areas like Garvagh Forest, providing both open sections and wooded paths.
Are there any longer, more challenging mountain bike routes for experienced riders?
Absolutely. Experienced riders can tackle the Tamlaghtard Church loop from Limavady, a difficult 32.9 miles (52.9 km) trail with significant elevation gain, taking around 4 hours 5 minutes to complete. Another challenging option is the Garvagh Forest Trails β Garvagh Forest Red Trail loop from Garvagh, a moderate 31.9 miles (51.4 km) path with substantial elevation.
Where are the main mountain biking areas near Drumsurn Upper?
While Drumsurn Upper itself is nestled in the Roe Valley, key mountain biking areas nearby include Garvagh Forest, which features trails like the Garvagh Forest Red Trail. The broader region of the Sperrin Mountains, adjacent to Drumsurn Upper, also hosts significant trail networks such as Davagh Forest Trails, known for catering to various abilities.
Can I find circular mountain bike routes in the area?
Yes, several routes are designed as loops. Examples include the Tamlaghtard Church loop from Limavady, the Garvagh Forest Trails β Garvagh Forest Red Trail loop from Garvagh, and the shorter Garvagh Forest Red Trail β Garvagh Pyramid loop from Garvagh.
What are some scenic viewpoints or natural landmarks I might encounter?
The area around Drumsurn Upper, situated at the foot of Donald's Hill and on the edge of the Sperrin Mountains, offers numerous scenic vistas. You can expect valley views and glimpses of the mountainous landscapes. Historically, a large lime kiln linked to a quarry in Drumsurn Upper provided views of the Sperrins, suggesting elevated points with picturesque outlooks.
When is the best time of year for mountain biking in Drumsurn Upper?
Given its location in Northern Ireland, mountain biking in Drumsurn Upper is generally enjoyable during the drier months, typically from late spring through early autumn (May to September). This period usually offers more favorable weather conditions, making the trails less muddy and more pleasant to ride.
What other outdoor activities are available in Drumsurn Upper besides mountain biking?
Beyond mountain biking, Drumsurn Upper and its surrounding natural landscape are excellent for hiking and walking. Komoot lists several routes for these activities, allowing visitors to explore the local environment, enjoy the scenic views of the Sperrins, and experience the varied terrain at a different pace.
What makes mountain biking in Drumsurn Upper unique compared to other regions?
The uniqueness of mountain biking in Drumsurn Upper stems from its strategic location in the Roe Valley, offering a blend of valley views and access to the foothills of the Sperrin Mountains. This provides a diverse riding experience, from forest trails to more open, undulating terrain, all within a region known for its natural beauty and established wider trail networks in Northern Ireland.
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