Easy hikes and walks around Ballykeel
4.6
(81)
667
hikers
36
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Ballykeel offer diverse landscapes for outdoor exploration. The region features a mix of coastal paths, serene forest parks, and reservoir walks. Hikers can experience varied terrain, from gentle riverside routes to trails with views of surrounding hills. The area provides accessible paths suitable for different fitness levels.
Best easy hiking trails around Ballykeel
- The most popular easy hiking route is Hen Mountain — Mourne, a 0.8 mile (1.4 km) trail that takes 30 minutes to…
Last updated: July 1, 2026
1.35km
00:34
180m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
42
hikers
3.30km
01:11
180m
180m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
7
hikers
4.54km
01:27
180m
180m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
3.32km
00:51
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
hikers
3.39km
00:51
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Between the rustling trees along the Newry Canal Towpath, you'll encounter the tranquil ruin of a lock keeper's cottage. Once, this was the proud and bustling heart of the waterway, where the lock keeper stood ready day and night to operate the heavy wooden canal gates for passing barges. Today, only the robust stone walls remain, slowly being reclaimed by nature.
6
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There is something enchanted about this old, dilapidated stone hut - as if it were whispering stories of times gone by, when the canal was still full of life and the lock keepers worked here day and night. The walls, overgrown with greenery and moss, show how nature is slowly reclaiming its place. The building itself is only a ruin, but that is precisely what makes it somehow interesting. The mixture of broken brickwork and wild growth has something melancholic about it that fits perfectly into the tranquility of the surroundings. Right next to it there is a small rest area with a bench - ideal for stopping for a moment and taking in the atmosphere.
1
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A lovely small clearing with a few picnic tables and the Yellow Water river running beside it. The small car park is a good place to leave the car for one of the many walks in this area.
0
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A steep but beautiful walk following the Yellow Water river.
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Hen Mountain is one of the less challenging climbs of the Mourne Mountain range, not to worry though, as it still provides the stunning panoramic views that the Mournes are so good at showcasing. There are a few rocky outcrops up here which can be discovered and explored, just do watch your footing as you move about.
2
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Enjoy a stroll along this wild & beautiful landscape nestled at the foothills of Hen Mountain. If doing a back and forth to Hen Mountain, this is a great one to do with kids.
0
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Now in ruins, the lock keeper's cottage is a good reminder of the important industrial history of the canal and the vital roles played by those who worked on it.
3
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available around Ballykeel?
Ballykeel offers a good selection of easy hiking trails, with 14 routes specifically categorized as easy. These trails provide diverse landscapes, from coastal paths to forest parks and reservoir walks, suitable for various fitness levels.
Are there any easy circular walks in Ballykeel?
Yes, Ballykeel features several easy circular walks. For example, the View of Hen Mountain – Hen Mountain loop from Hen Mountain is an easy 2.0-mile (3.3 km) path offering views of Hen Mountain. Another option is the Yellow Water Picnic Area – Yellow Water River loop from Kilbroney River, a 2.9-mile (4.6 km) trail through riverside scenery.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see on easy hikes in Ballykeel?
Easy hikes in Ballykeel showcase a variety of natural beauty. You can find coastal paths with stunning views, serene forest parks like Kilbroney Forest Park, and tranquil reservoir walks such as those near Silent Valley. The region also offers trails with views of surrounding hills and mountains, like those around Hen Mountain.
Are there any family-friendly easy hikes in the area?
Ballykeel is an excellent destination for family-friendly hikes. Forest parks like Kilbroney Forest Park, known for its 'Narnia trail,' and Tollymore Forest Park, famous for its *Game of Thrones* filming locations, offer engaging experiences for all ages. The tranquil reservoir walks also provide a pleasant setting for families.
What are some interesting landmarks or attractions near the easy hiking trails?
Beyond the trails themselves, Ballykeel's vicinity is rich in attractions. You can explore historical sites like Carrickfergus Castle overlooking Belfast Lough, or the Leitrim Lodge and Game of Thrones Filming Location. Natural highlights include Hen Mountain and the Pierce's Castle natural monument. The Newry Canal Towpath also offers a scenic route.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the easy trails in Ballykeel?
The easy trails in Ballykeel are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 100 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, from coastal views to peaceful forest settings, and the accessibility of routes suitable for different ability levels. The well-maintained paths and scenic beauty are frequently highlighted.
Are there any easy riverside or waterside walks?
Yes, Ballykeel offers charming riverside walks. The Yellow Water Picnic Area – Yellow Water River loop from Kilbroney River is a popular 2.9-mile (4.6 km) trail that leads through pleasant riverside scenery. Another option is the Newry River loop from Mullaghglass, an easy 3.3 km path.
What is the best time of year to go on an easy hike in Ballykeel?
Ballykeel's easy hiking trails can be enjoyed year-round, though each season offers a different experience. Spring and summer provide lush greenery and warmer weather, ideal for coastal paths and forest walks. Autumn brings vibrant colors to the woodlands, while winter can offer crisp, clear views, especially on trails with less elevation. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Are there any easy trails with minimal elevation gain?
Yes, some easy trails in Ballykeel feature very minimal elevation gain, making them suitable for those seeking flatter routes. For instance, the Lock Keeper's Cottage Ruins loop from Mullaghglass has an elevation gain of only about 6 meters, offering a gentle walk.
Where can I find parking for easy hiking trails in Ballykeel?
Many popular trailheads for easy hikes in Ballykeel offer designated parking. For example, the Yellow Water Picnic Area is a known spot with parking facilities, providing access to riverside trails. Forest parks like Kilbroney and Tollymore also typically have visitor parking available.
Are there any easy trails that offer views of the Mourne Mountains?
Yes, some easy trails provide excellent views of the Mourne Mountains. The Hen Mountain — Mourne trail, though short, offers a direct experience of the area. Additionally, the View of Hen Mountain – Hen Mountain loop from Hen Mountain provides scenic vistas of this prominent peak within the Mournes.
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