The best walks and hikes around Slievenacloy
4.4
(139)
2,650
hikers
83
hikes
Hiking around Slievenacloy explores the rolling landscape of the Belfast Hills. The area is characterized by species-rich grasslands, moorgrass, and rush pasture, with trails often crossing old farm tracks and well-marked paths. These routes offer expansive views over Belfast and the surrounding counties, extending to the Mourne Mountains and Sperrins on clear days. The region features diverse plant life, including various orchid species, and is a habitat for priority bird species.
Best hiking trails around Slievenacloy
- The most popular hiking route is Divis and the Black Mountain loop, a 6.0 miles (9.6 km) trail that takes 2 hours 43 minutes to complete. This moderate hike features an ascent of over 200 meters, providing panoramic views from the highest points in the Belfast Hills.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Divis and the Black Mountain – Black Mountain Summit loop from Divis, a moderate 4.8 miles (7.7 km) path. This route combines ascents to the Black Mountain summit with sections offering views of the surrounding landscape.
- Local hikers also love the Mila's Lake loop from Poleglass, a 1.9 miles (3.1 km) trail leading around a small lake, often completed in about 48 minutes.
- Hiking around Slievenacloy is defined by rolling hills, open grasslands, and waymarked paths. The network of trails provides options for different ability levels, from short, easy walks to more moderate hill climbs.
- The routes in Slievenacloy are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 120 reviews. More than 2,600 hikers have used komoot to explore Slievenacloy's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
4.6
(32)
283
hikers
9.59km
02:43
210m
210m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
13
hikers
18.3km
04:46
120m
120m
Hike the 11.4-mile Lagan Towpath and Barnett Demesne Loop, a moderate route combining riverside paths, parkland, and historic sites near Bel
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3.08km
00:48
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(8)
178
hikers
6.86km
01:59
180m
180m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
46
hikers
7.67km
02:04
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
There is probably no better way to get to Belfast city centre by bike.
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Although a tiny lake and more so a pond, Mila's lake is an ideal spot for a quick hike in nature.
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Located in South Belfast and once a private estate, Barnett Demesne is now a public park since 1951. The park itself includes plenty of walk/hike opportunities, gardens, an arboretum & a children's playground.
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Running from Belfast to Lisburn, the Lagan Towpath is a pleasant, walk around the River Lagan with peaceful surroundings such as wetland, riverside meadows, & woodlands. The canal system itself dates back to the late 18th century and now offers a glimpse into the area's past.
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The Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park is one of the most popular green spaces in Belfast. The park covers a huge area – 130 acres (52 ha) in total. The park has lots of diverse landscapes including woodland, formal rose gardens, meadows, riverside fields, a Japanese garden and a walled garden.
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Great Climb and worth it. Divis and the Black Mountain are the highest points boasting views across the north. Divis or Dubhais meaning ‘black ridge’ refers to the dark basalt bedrock. The Mountains rest in the heart of the Belfast Hills and provide a backdrop to the cities landscape. A mosaic of grassland and heathland bog, they are home to a host of wildlife and archaeological remains. Divis stands at 478 metres (1,562ft) and Black Mountain at 390 metres (1,275ft)
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Café at the trailhead with parking
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The River Lagan is a famous river that runs through Northern Ireland from the Slieve Croob mountain in County Down to Belfast. Jog alongside the river via a shaded woodland path and enjoy the scenes of the Lagan Valley.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed in Slievenacloy Nature Reserve?
Yes, dogs are welcome in Slievenacloy Nature Reserve, but they must be kept on a lead at all times. This is to protect the sensitive wildlife and the grazing livestock, such as Irish moiled cattle, that are present in the reserve from early summer to mid-winter.
What are the parking options at Slievenacloy?
There is no formal car park at the Slievenacloy Nature Reserve. Visitors typically park along the roadside near the entrances. Please be considerate and ensure you do not block any gates or access ways for local residents and farm vehicles.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks in the area?
Yes, the area offers several easier walks suitable for families. For a short and gentle outing, the Mila's Lake loop from Poleglass is a great option. Nearby, the highly-regarded Colin Glen Forest Park is also very popular with families, known for its themed trails.
What kind of wildlife can I see in Slievenacloy?
Slievenacloy is a biodiversity hotspot. Depending on the season, you might see a variety of orchids and wildflowers in the summer, numerous species of butterflies, and birds like skylarks and meadow pipits. The reserve is also one of Ireland's best sites for waxcap fungi and is home to the common lizard.
What are the trail conditions like, and do I need hiking boots?
The trails consist of old farm tracks and waymarked paths across open grasslands, which can be uneven and boggy, especially after rain. Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are highly recommended to ensure comfort and good grip on the varied terrain.
When is the best time to see wildflowers?
The summer months are the most spectacular time for wildflowers. The grasslands come alive with thousands of common spotted and butterfly orchids, creating a vibrant display of color across the reserve.
Are there any circular walks available?
Yes, there are several circular routes. For a moderately challenging loop that offers great views, consider the Black Mountain Summit loop from Mount Eagles. It provides a comprehensive experience of the area's rolling hills and open landscape.
What do other hikers say about the trails around Slievenacloy?
The trails are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Hikers often praise the stunning panoramic views across Belfast and the rich biodiversity of the grasslands. The sense of open space so close to the city is a frequently mentioned highlight.
How many hiking trails are there around Slievenacloy?
There are over 90 hiking routes to explore around Slievenacloy on komoot. These range from short, easy strolls across the meadows to more challenging moderate climbs in the Belfast Hills, offering options for all fitness levels.
Are there other popular hiking areas nearby?
Yes, the region is rich with excellent hiking spots. Divis and the Black Mountain, managed by the National Trust, is a very popular choice offering well-maintained trails and panoramic views. For a different experience, Lagan Valley Regional Park provides beautiful riverside paths.
What kind of views can I expect?
The high points within the reserve offer breathtaking panoramic views. On a clear day, you can see across the city of Belfast, Lough Neagh, and as far as the Mourne Mountains. Some vantage points even provide a glimpse of Scotland across the North Channel.
Is there an entrance fee or specific opening hours for the reserve?
Slievenacloy Nature Reserve is free to enter and is open to the public year-round, from dawn until dusk.
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