The best walks and hikes around Gortnageeragh
4.8
(189)
1,400
hikers
19
hikes
Hiking around Gortnageeragh, situated within the Antrim Coast & Glens Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offers diverse landscapes. The region is characterized by the Glens of Antrim, sculpted by glaciers, creating dramatic valleys and unique topography. Glenariff Forest Park, covering over 1,185 hectares, features numerous trails leading past waterfalls. Hiking options range from easy walks to more challenging routes with significant elevation gains.
Best hiking trails around Gortnageeragh
- The most popular hiking route is Waterfall Trail via Rainbow Trail —…
Last updated: June 25, 2026
4.7
(90)
496
hikers
4.56km
01:21
140m
140m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(50)
389
hikers
9.60km
02:47
240m
240m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
3
hikers
7.44km
02:03
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(4)
84
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(5)
52
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Gortnageeragh
Tips from the Community
Very beautiful waterfalls along the way and very well developed.
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Glenariff is one of nine valleys in the Glens of Antrim. These impressive glens were created by glaciers millions of years ago during the Ice Age and shaped by the tides. Glenarm, Glenariff, Glendun, Glencorp, Glenaan, Glenbllyeamon, Glenshesk, Glencloy, and Glentaisie are a scenic gem located on the coast of Northern Ireland.
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Glenariff Forest Park is a beautiful park located in County Antrim in Northern Ireland. The park covers over 1,185 hectares and has a number of scenic trails that run past some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Northern Ireland. We spent a day hiking around this beautiful waterfall.
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From the bridge you have a great view of the water
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The water breaks on the stones, beautiful to look at
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Beautiful to look at, the river is more than fascinating
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Gortnageeragh?
There are 19 hiking trails around Gortnageeragh. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from easy strolls to more challenging ascents, all within the scenic Antrim Coast & Glens Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Gortnageeragh offers 9 easy hiking trails. A great option for families or those seeking a gentle walk is the Waterfall Trail via Rainbow Trail — Antrim Coast & Glens, which is 4.6 km long and takes about 1 hour 20 minutes to complete, leading past beautiful waterfalls.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see on the trails?
The trails around Gortnageeragh are known for their dramatic glens, lush forest parks, and numerous waterfalls. You'll encounter the unique topography sculpted by glaciers, particularly within Glenariff Forest Park, which is home to some of Northern Ireland's most beautiful waterfalls.
Are there any trails that feature waterfalls?
Absolutely. The region is famous for its waterfalls. The Waterfall Trail via Rainbow Trail — Antrim Coast & Glens is specifically designed to showcase these natural wonders. You can also explore highlights like Inver River Waterfall and Ess-na-Laragh Waterfall.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Gortnageeragh?
The trails in Gortnageeragh are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 160 reviews. Hikers often praise the dramatic glens, lush forest parks, and the beauty of the numerous waterfalls found along the routes.
Are there any longer or more challenging hikes available?
Yes, for those seeking a greater challenge, there are 2 difficult trails and 8 moderate trails. A demanding option is the Inver River Waterfall – Ess-na-Laragh Waterfall loop from Antrim Coast & Glens AONB, which spans nearly 20 km and involves significant elevation changes.
Can I find circular hiking routes in the area?
Yes, many of the trails around Gortnageeragh are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the View of Glenariff Valley – Glenariff Forest loop from Cargan, an easy 5.7 km route.
What are some notable landmarks or points of interest near the hiking trails?
Beyond the trails themselves, you can explore several natural highlights. These include the impressive Inver River Waterfall, the dramatic Ess-na-Laragh Waterfall, and the picturesque Waterfall and Bridge on the Glenariff River. The Winding Roads Above Glenariff Forest also offer scenic views.
Are there any trails that offer expansive views of the glens?
Certainly. The Scenic Trail, a moderate 9.6 km route, is specifically known for providing expansive views of the surrounding glens and forests, allowing you to appreciate the dramatic landscape of the Antrim Coast & Glens.
What is Glenariff Forest Park and how can I hike there?
Glenariff Forest Park is a significant natural attraction covering over 1,185 hectares. It features numerous scenic trails, including the Glenariff Forest Park Scenic Trail, a moderate 7.4 km path that takes you through the heart of the park, often completed in about 2 hours.
What is the typical duration for hikes in Gortnageeragh?
Hiking durations vary significantly depending on the trail's length and difficulty. Easy routes like the Waterfall Trail via Rainbow Trail can be completed in about 1 hour 20 minutes, while more challenging and longer routes, such as the Inver River Waterfall – Ess-na-Laragh Waterfall loop, can take nearly 6 hours.
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