The best walks and hikes around Lenagh

There are over 20 hiking trails to explore around Lenagh. The routes range from easy forest loops to challenging mountain ascents, with about half of the trails being of moderate difficulty.

Yes, there are several family-friendly options. A great choice is the Hiking loop from Gortin, a gentle 3-mile (4.7 km) walk. Many of the trails within Gortin Glen Forest Park are on well-maintained paths suitable for all ages.

For a more strenuous day out, the trails leading to the summit of Mullaghcarn offer the biggest challenge. The Mullaghcarn from Glenpark Road — Sperrins route is a rewarding 4.1-mile (6.6 km) climb that provides fantastic views over the Sperrins.

Yes, Gortin Glen Forest Park is generally dog-friendly, but it's recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially in areas with wildlife such as the deer enclosure or near livestock on the mountain slopes.

The summit of Mullaghcarn offers the most spectacular panoramic views, stretching across the Sperrin Mountains and sometimes as far as County Donegal. The Ladies View Trail within Gortin Glen Forest Park is another trail known for its rewarding vistas.

Yes, many of the trails in the area are looped routes. For a short and scenic circular walk, the Gortin Glen Lakes loop — Sperrins is an excellent 1-mile (1.7 km) option that takes you around the park's small lakes.

The trails around Lenagh feature a mix of surfaces. You can expect well-maintained tarmac and gravel paths within Gortin Glen Forest Park, which transition to more rugged forest tracks and open mountain paths as you ascend into the Sperrin Mountains.

Accessing the trailheads, particularly those within Gortin Glen Forest Park, is most convenient by car as public transport options to the park entrance are limited. There is ample parking available at the main forest park car park.

While the main trails in the guide focus on forest and mountain scenery, the wider Gortin Glen area features burns and streams tumbling down the mountainside. The Pollan Trail, for instance, follows the Pollan Burn and passes a pleasant waterfall.

The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths in Gortin Glen Forest Park and the stunning, expansive views from the summit of Mullaghcarn.

Yes, a notable feature is the Darach, the Guardian of the Sperrins sculpture, which you can see on the trail to Mullaghcarn. This majestic sculpture is a highlight for many hikers exploring the forest park.