The best running trails around Lisgallon

There are five moderate running routes detailed in this guide for the Lisgallon area. These trails offer a variety of experiences, from parkland loops to routes through varied local landscapes.

Running trails around Lisgallon offer diverse natural landscapes. You'll find routes through dense coniferous and deciduous forests, open moorland, and even ancient patches of woodland. Some sections can be quite steep, providing a good challenge, while others are relatively easy forest tracks. The area also features wide valleys and open mountain terrain, ensuring a varied running experience.

While all routes listed are moderate, many of the forest tracks, particularly those through areas like Iniscarn Forest, offer relatively easy walking and running conditions that can be enjoyed by families. The tranquil environment and natural beauty make for a pleasant outing. For a specific route, consider the Dungannon Park from Dungannon Bus Station route, which is a moderate run through parkland.

Yes, the natural landscapes around Lisgallon, including areas like Slieve Gallion and Iniscarn Forest, are generally dog-friendly. Many trails pass through forests and open moorland, providing ample space for dogs. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs under control, especially in areas with livestock or wildlife, and to check for any specific local regulations or signage.

Yes, the Lisgallon area is rich in scenic beauty. You can enjoy panoramic views across the Sperrin Mountains, and from Lough Neagh to the Mournes, especially on higher elevations of Slieve Gallion. Along some routes, you might encounter attractions such as Brantry Lough, Dungannon Park Weir, or the historic Castle Caulfield Ruins. The Dungannon Park Lake also offers beautiful views.

The diverse landscapes of Lisgallon, from forests to open mountain, make it suitable for running year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, with diverse flora and changing leaves. Summer provides longer daylight hours. Even winter running can be rewarding, with the tranquil environment and crisp air, though some higher or more exposed sections might require appropriate gear.

While all routes in this guide are rated as moderate, the region around Slieve Gallion offers sections with quite steep ascents, providing a good challenge for experienced runners or those looking for a rigorous trail running experience. These more challenging paths often lead to rewarding panoramic views. For a longer moderate run, consider the Long Slow Climb – Dungannon Park Lake loop from Dungannon.

Yes, several of the running routes around Lisgallon are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Running loop from Galbally and the Running loop from Dungannon, both offering a great way to explore the local countryside without retracing your steps.

Runners often praise the varied terrain and the stunning panoramic views across the Sperrin Mountains and towards Lough Neagh. The mix of forest tracks and open moorland provides a diverse experience, and the tranquil environment, with the scent of pine and sounds of nature, is frequently highlighted as a key appeal. The komoot community has explored these routes over 20 times, indicating their popularity.

Yes, many of the running routes in the Lisgallon area, particularly those originating from places like Iniscarn Forest or Dungannon Park, have accessible parking facilities. For routes like Dungannon Park from Dungannon Bus Station, parking is generally available near the starting points, making it convenient for runners to access the trails.

Some routes, such as Dungannon Park from Dungannon Bus Station, are designed with public transport access in mind, starting directly from a bus station. For other routes, especially those in more remote mountain or forest areas, public transport options might be limited, and personal transport would be more convenient.

While this guide focuses on routes up to 7.8 miles (12.5 km), the varied terrain of Slieve Gallion and its surrounding forests allows for combining sections to create longer runs. The Long Slow Climb – Dungannon Park Lake loop from Dungannon is the longest route in this guide, covering 7.8 miles (12.5 km) with moderate elevation changes.