4.7
(24)
69
hikers
5
hikes
Hiking around Drumnacanon offers access to diverse natural landscapes, including ancient woodlands, wetland areas, and the Grillagh River. The region is situated near the Sperrin Mountains, providing a mix of forest trails and views towards surrounding hills. Varied habitats such as bogland and meadows contribute to the area's ecological richness.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
4.4
(9)
20
hikers
9.82km
02:51
260m
260m
Embark on the Carntogher Way, a moderate hike spanning 6.1 miles (9.8 km) with an elevation gain of 868 feet (265 metres), typically completed in about 2 hours and 51β¦
5.0
(1)
20
hikers
3.65km
00:58
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(9)
14
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
8
hikers
5.77km
01:43
190m
190m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
1
hikers
14.3km
04:04
330m
330m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Drumnacanon
The climb up Carntogher is a bit of a leg burner, but the views at the top make it all worthwhile. From the peak, you'll be afforded views across Lough Foyle to Errigal and Muckish in Donegal, Sawel and the high Sperrins, and south-east to The Mournes and Slieve Gullion.
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If you walk 100m slightly off the path south at this waypoint, you'll reach the beautiful little Altkeeran Waterfall. The waterfall is situated nearby to the spring Source Of The Grillagh and the peak Carntogher.
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There are over 5 hiking routes available around Drumnacanon, offering a range of experiences from easy strolls through ancient woodlands to more moderate ascents with scenic views. The komoot community has rated these routes highly, with an average score of 4.7 stars.
Yes, Drumnacanon offers several easy, family-friendly options. The Drumnaph Forest β Drumnph Forest loop from Drumnaph Nature Reserve is an easy 4.5 km path that leads through ancient woodlands and diverse habitats. Within Drumnaph Nature Reserve, the Ruachan Trail (1 km) and a section of the Loch Bran Trail (1.5 km) are also suitable for families, with the latter even featuring an interactive SlΓ na SΓ (fairy trail) and wheelchair-accessible sections.
Yes, many of the trails around Drumnacanon are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Drumnaph Forest loop and the more challenging Carntogher Summit Cairn loop from Drumnaph Nature Reserve, which offers varied terrain and takes about 4 hours to complete.
Yes, you can explore the Altkeeran Waterfall loop from Pollan Burn. This easy 5.7 km hike offers the chance to experience a waterfall as part of your outdoor adventure.
Drumnacanon is rich in diverse natural landscapes. You'll encounter ancient woodlands, semi-natural woodlands, wetlands, boglands, and meadows. The Grillagh River, an important salmon-spawning river, runs through the area, and the region's proximity to the Sperrin Mountains provides a backdrop of wild, untouched beauty.
Yes, from certain trails, particularly the Loch Bran trail within Drumnaph Nature Reserve, you can enjoy fantastic views. These include vistas of Sliabh Mis (Slemish) mountain to the east and Carn TΓ³chair (Carntogher) mountain to the west. The Carntogher Way also explores the landscape around Carntogher, likely offering elevated perspectives.
Drumnacanon offers enjoyable hiking experiences throughout much of the year. Spring and summer provide lush greenery and vibrant wildflowers, while autumn brings beautiful foliage. The diverse habitats, including ancient woodlands and wetlands, offer unique beauty in different seasons. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Drumnaph Wood, a significant remnant of ancient forest, offers opportunities to spot historical features and nature sculptures. The area also has a rich folklore, with ancient rath settlements located within the Drumnaph Nature Reserve, providing a glimpse into Ireland's past ecosystems and history.
While specific parking locations for all routes are not detailed, Drumnaph Nature Reserve, a central point for many trails, is likely to have visitor parking facilities. It's advisable to check the starting point details for individual routes on komoot for precise parking information.
The trails in Drumnacanon are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 24 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse natural landscapes, including the ancient woodlands and varied habitats, as well as the well-maintained trails that cater to different fitness levels.
Yes, the Grillagh River runs along the edge of Drumnaph Nature Reserve, and trails like the Ruachan Trail lead towards it. The Perimeter Trail also follows the river through young woodland and open scrubland, offering waterside views and the chance to observe the river's ecological importance as a salmon-spawning river.


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