Tollymore Forest Park – Mountain and Drinns Trail

This trail is considered moderate to challenging, requiring good fitness and sure-footedness. You'll encounter varied terrain including forest paths, broken surfaces, gravel, and unpaved sections. Expect steps, gullies, streams, and boulders, with significant portions featuring severe gradients and uneven ground, especially on the Drinns loop.

The full loop, including the Drinns section, is approximately 14.3 km (8.9 miles) and typically takes between 4 to 5 hours to complete, depending on your pace and stops for views.

The trail offers incredibly diverse scenery. You'll pass through conifer and broadleaved woodlands, including beech forests that are carpeted with bluebells in spring. Highlights include the dramatic Shimna Gorge, waterfalls, cascades, and tranquil pools. You'll also cross several historic stone bridges, such as the Old Bridge (1726) and Parnell's Bridge (1842). Don't miss the Tollymore Forest Park itself, and the stunning View of Newcastle and the Mourne Mountains from the Curraghard Summit.

Yes, the trail offers several fantastic viewpoints. The Drinns themselves provide spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding Mourne Mountains, Luke's Mountain, and the sea at Newcastle. The easterly Drinn, at 255 meters, is the highest point in the park and offers particularly rewarding vistas.

Spring is beautiful when the beech forests are carpeted with bluebells. Autumn offers stunning foliage colors. While accessible year-round, be prepared for potentially muddy and slippery conditions in wetter months. Winter can be challenging with colder temperatures and shorter daylight hours, but also offers a unique, stark beauty.

Parking is available within Tollymore Forest Park. There is an entrance fee to access the park, which covers parking and facilities. Check the official Northern Ireland Forest Service website for current fees and opening times before your visit.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome in Tollymore Forest Park and on its trails. However, they must be kept on a lead at all times to protect wildlife and ensure the safety and enjoyment of other visitors.

Yes, this route intersects with several other trails within Tollymore Forest Park and the wider region. Significant portions of the trail follow sections of the Newcastle Way, the Tollymore Forest - Mountain Trail, and the Mourne Way. It also briefly crosses parts of St Patrick's Way: The Pilgrim Walk and the Tollymore Forest - The Drinns Trail.

Given the challenging terrain and varied conditions, it's recommended to bring sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support, waterproof clothing, sufficient water and snacks, a map or GPS device, and a first-aid kit. Trekking poles can also be very helpful on the steeper and uneven sections.

The Drinns section, while optional, adds a tough climb to the route. It features significant gradients and can be tricky near the summit with some off-trail sections. It requires good navigation skills and a higher level of fitness compared to other parts of the park, but rewards hikers with the best views.

The full Mountain and Drinns Trail is considered moderate to challenging and is not generally recommended for beginners or very young children due to its length, significant elevation changes, and uneven terrain. However, Tollymore Forest Park offers many shorter, easier trails that are more suitable for families and less experienced hikers.