The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Hazelwood

There are over 25 family-friendly hiking trails around Hazelwood, County Sligo, ranging from easy strolls to slightly more challenging routes. Most of these, 19 to be exact, are rated as easy, making them perfect for families with children.

The trails in Hazelwood, County Sligo, primarily traverse ancient woodlands along the shores of Lough Gill. You can expect well-maintained paths, often with gentle inclines, suitable for various ages and fitness levels. Many routes offer scenic views of the lake and its islands.

Yes, many of the family-friendly trails in Hazelwood are circular, offering a convenient way to explore without retracing your steps. For example, the Hazelwood House loop near Sligo and the Hazelwood headland loop near Sligo are both excellent easy circular options.

Hazelwood is renowned for its scenic beauty and cultural significance. Along the trails, you'll find unique sculptures dotted throughout the ancient woodland, offering a fun element for children. You'll also enjoy stunning views of Lough Gill and its islands, such as Church Island, Cottage Island, and Goat Island. The area is also historically significant as the setting for W.B. Yeats's "The Song of Wandering Aengus".

While specific dog rules can vary by trail, many outdoor areas in County Sligo are dog-friendly, especially if dogs are kept on a leash. It's always best to check local signage or specific route details on komoot for the most up-to-date information regarding pets on each trail.

Hazelwood, County Sligo, is beautiful year-round. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while autumn offers vibrant foliage. Summer provides longer daylight hours and generally milder weather. Even in winter, the ancient woodlands offer a serene and atmospheric experience, though paths might be damp.

Yes, some routes are designed with families in mind. For instance, The Doory Park – Playground loop from Sligo specifically highlights a playground, making it an excellent choice for families looking for an added activity for younger children.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 180 ratings. Reviewers often praise the tranquil atmosphere of the ancient woodlands, the beautiful views of Lough Gill, and the well-maintained, easy-to-follow paths that make for a relaxing family outing.

For families seeking a slightly longer, yet still easy, adventure, the Garavogue Riverside Walk – Sligo Abbey loop from Sligo offers nearly 5 km of pleasant walking with minimal elevation gain, perfect for a leisurely extended stroll.

While specific public transport options to every trailhead may vary, Sligo town is well-served by public transport. From there, some trailheads, especially those closer to the town or along main routes, might be accessible. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for routes serving the Hazelwood area or consider a short taxi ride from Sligo town.

Absolutely! Many trails in Hazelwood, County Sligo, combine both. The Slish Wood and The Sligo Way loop along Lough Gill is a prime example, offering a delightful walk through Slish Wood with continuous scenic vistas of Lough Gill.