The best walks and hikes around Moneymore

Moneymore offers a diverse range of hiking experiences, from serene lakeside paths to rugged mountain climbs. You'll find trails through forest paths, river valleys, and along mountain edges, catering to various ability levels. Notable natural features include Slieve Gallion on the eastern edge of the Sperrins, the Ballymully River, and Lough Fea with its tranquil lakeside paths.

Yes, Moneymore has several easy and family-friendly options. The Drumnaph Forest – Drumnph Forest loop from Drumnaph Nature Reserve is an easy 2.8-mile trail suitable for a leisurely walk. Lough Fea also offers a lovely, flat walking track of approximately 4km, suitable for all skill levels, complete with a children's play area and rain shelters. Manor Park Moneymore, a conservation park on the Ballymully River, features 0.75km of accessible trails ideal for spotting local wildlife.

For challenging hikes with rewarding views, consider routes that ascend Slieve Gallion. The mountain offers sensational panoramic views across the Sperrins mountain range and Lough Neagh. While not in our guide, the 'Slieve Gallion and Lough Fea Loop' is a known challenging 20.8-mile hike combining rugged mountain climbs with serene lakeside paths in the Sperrins, requiring good to very good fitness.

Yes, many of the trails around Moneymore are circular. For instance, the Glenshane Forest – Glenshane Pass loop from Sheskin Burn is a moderate 5.7-mile circular path. Another option is the Drumnaph Forest – Drumnph Forest loop from Drumnaph Nature Reserve, which is an easy 2.8-mile loop.

Yes, you can explore the Altkeeran Waterfall loop from Pollan Burn. This easy 3.6-mile hike offers the chance to experience a waterfall as part of your outdoor adventure.

The hiking routes in Moneymore are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 40 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, from forest paths to mountain edges, and the opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the region.

Yes, the Moneymore Heritage Trail is a short, easy-to-follow trail that winds through the village, highlighting its rich history and architectural buildings. You can find more information about this trail on the Visit Mid Ulster website: Moneymore Heritage Trail.

Beyond hiking, Moneymore offers additional outdoor activities. You can visit Splash Outdoor Waterpark, located on a spring-fed lake, which features an inflatable aquapark, paddleboarding, kayaking, and open water swimming. The area also includes a Go Kart track for another option for outdoor recreation.

While specific parking details for every trailhead are not always listed, many popular hiking areas like Lough Fea and Drumnaph Nature Reserve typically offer designated parking facilities for visitors. It's advisable to check local signage or specific route details for parking information before you go.

The best time to visit the Sperrin Mountains for hiking, which includes areas around Moneymore, is generally during the spring and summer months (April to September) when the weather is milder and days are longer. However, the rugged beauty of the area can be enjoyed year-round, with winter walks offering a different, often more challenging, experience.

Many outdoor areas in Moneymore are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept under control, especially around livestock or wildlife. The flat walking track around Lough Fea is a popular spot for dog walkers. Always check specific trail regulations or property rules, such as those for Springhill House grounds, regarding dog policies before your visit.

Elevation gains vary significantly depending on the trail. Easy routes like the Drumnaph Forest – Drumnph Forest loop have minimal elevation changes (around 30 meters). Moderate trails, such as the Carntogher Way, can involve climbs of over 260 meters. More challenging routes, particularly those ascending Slieve Gallion, will feature more substantial elevation gains, often exceeding 300 meters.