The best walks and hikes around Formil
4.8
(27)
123
hikers
8
hikes
Hiking around Formil offers a collection of trails primarily characterized by forest environments and defined paths. The region features undulating terrain, with some routes including notable elevation gains. These hiking trails provide opportunities to explore natural landscapes, including areas like Glenshane Forest and Garvagh Forest. The network of paths caters to various hiking preferences, from easier forest loops to more challenging moderate routes.
Best hiking trails around Formil
- The most popular hiking route is Carntogher Way, a 6.1 miles…
Last updated: May 13, 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 51…
4.4
(5)
18
hikers
6.11km
01:38
70m
70m
Explore the easy 3.8-mile Garvagh Forest loop, gaining 241 feet in 1 hour 38 minutes, featuring the unique Garvagh Pyramid.
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5.0
(2)
18
hikers
10.0km
02:48
200m
200m
Embark on a moderate hike to Priest's Chair via Glenshane Forest, a 6.2-mile (10.0 km) route that guides you through diverse landscapes. You will gain 651 feet (199 metres) in…
5.0
(1)
19
hikers
5.43km
01:27
60m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
11
hikers
6.88km
01:51
90m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Formil
Tips from the Community
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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Glenshane Forest is a beautiful coniferous woodland located along the Glenshane Pass on the main road between Belfast and Londonderry. The forest features a large area of heather moorland and a beautiful babbling brook that runs right through it, the River Roe. Gorgeous location for a stroll with a fascinating touch of history too if you're heading to Priest's Chair.
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The Priest's Chair, also known as the Glenshane Mass Rock is located just north of Bohilbreaga peak near Glenshane Forest and Eagle Rock. The rock got its name from an incident during The Penal Times. A young boy, acting as a lookout, deceived the searching soldiers, also known as The Red Coats, by pointing them in a different direction, protecting the priest and the mass rock.
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Here lies a beautiful weaved structure of a pair of deer, one of the many fun and fascinating discoveries of the Garvagh Forest.
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Garvagh Forest is filled with mysterious features. This one is a wood-carving of a rabbit and is situated on the western side of the park. Discovering the others is quite an adventure and makes a great day out for families.
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It's quite an unusual experience stumbling into a pyramid in the middle of an Irish forest! This pyramid was built in the 19th century as a burial chamber for Lord Garvagh and is a lovelly feature to the forest today.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Formil?
There are over 8 hiking routes around Formil, with options ranging from easy forest loops to more challenging moderate trails. The komoot community has explored these paths over 120 times.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes around Formil?
Hiking around Formil primarily features forest environments and defined paths. You can expect undulating terrain, with some routes including notable elevation gains, particularly on moderate trails like Carntogher Way.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or a relaxed walk?
Yes, Formil offers 6 easy hiking routes. A popular choice is the Garvagh Forest loop, which is 3.8 miles (6.1 km) long and typically takes about 1 hour 38 minutes to complete. Another easy option is the Garvagh Forest Trails loop from Garvagh.
What are some of the longer or more challenging hikes in the Formil area?
For those seeking a moderate challenge, the Carntogher Way is a 6.1 miles (9.8 km) trail with significant elevation gain, taking approximately 2 hours 51 minutes. Another moderate option is Priest's Chair via Glenshane Forest, which is 6.2 miles (10.0 km) long.
Are there any circular hiking routes around Formil?
Yes, several routes in Formil are designed as loops. Examples include the Garvagh Forest loop and the Glenshane Forest loop from Roe, offering convenient starting and ending points.
What can I see or explore along the hiking trails in Formil?
The trails offer opportunities to explore natural landscapes, including areas like Glenshane Forest and Garvagh Forest. Along your hikes, you might encounter interesting landmarks such as the Garvagh Pyramid, the Woven Deer Sculptures in Garvagh Forest, or the Altkeeran Waterfall. The Carntogher Summit Cairn also offers a notable viewpoint.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Formil?
The hiking routes in Formil are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 20 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, established paths, and the immersive forest scenery found in areas like Glenshane Forest and Garvagh Forest.
Are the hiking trails around Formil suitable for families?
Many of the trails, particularly the 6 easy routes, are suitable for families. The forest loops, such as the Garvagh Forest loop, offer defined paths and manageable distances for a family outing.
How long do hikes typically take in Formil?
Hiking durations vary depending on the route's length and difficulty. Easy forest loops like the Garvagh Forest loop can be completed in about 1 hour 38 minutes, while moderate trails such as the Carntogher Way may take closer to 2 hours 51 minutes.
Are there any waterfalls to see on the Formil hiking trails?
Yes, hikers can discover the Altkeeran Waterfall, which is listed as a highlight in the area. You can plan your route to include this natural feature.
What are the main natural features of the Formil hiking region?
The Formil hiking region is characterized by its extensive forest environments, including notable areas like Glenshane Forest and Garvagh Forest. The landscape features undulating terrain and offers views of natural monuments and reservoirs, such as Altnaheglish Reservoir.
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