The best MTB trails around Doons

This guide details 6 mountain bike trails around Doons, offering a range of experiences through the Sperrins region. These routes are popular, with over 200 mountain bikers having explored the area using komoot.

Yes, the Doons area offers mountain bike trails suitable for various skill levels. You'll find 2 easy routes, 3 moderate routes, and 1 difficult route, ensuring options for beginners to experienced riders.

Mountain biking around Doons is characterized by a mix of rugged and scenic landscapes within the Sperrins region. Expect rolling hills, dense forests, and open moorland. Trails often navigate through forested sections and feature challenging climbs with significant elevation changes, providing expansive views of the Sperrins.

Yes, there are easy routes suitable for families. For example, the OM Dark Sky Park & Observatory – Red Trail – No Running loop from Davagh Lower is an easy 4-mile (6.4 km) route with minimal elevation gain, making it a good option for a family outing.

For a more challenging ride, consider the Mullaghcarn loop from Davagh Trailhead. This difficult route spans 54.1 miles (87.1 km) and features substantial elevation changes, leading through the heart of the Sperrins. Another moderate, longer option is the Slieve Gallion loop from Cookstown – Sperrins, which is 31.6 miles (50.9 km) with significant elevation gain.

The Doons area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from more than 10 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, from technical forest sections to flowing singletrack, and the expansive views offered by routes through the Sperrin Mountains.

Yes, many of the mountain bike trails in Doons are designed as loops. Examples include the popular Davagh Forest trails loop – Sperrins and the longer Slieve Gallion loop from Cookstown – Sperrins, both offering a complete circuit back to your starting point.

While mountain biking, you'll experience the natural beauty of the Sperrins, including dense forests and open moorland. Nearby attractions worth exploring include the ancient Beaghmore Stone Circles and the serene Lough Fea. The OM Dark Sky Park & Observatory loop from Pomeroy also offers a unique point of interest.

The Sperrins region, like much of Northern Ireland, experiences varied weather. Spring and summer generally offer the most pleasant conditions with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures, ideal for exploring the trails. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out, especially during wetter or colder months.

While specific cafes directly on every trail are not listed, popular trailheads like Davagh Forest often have visitor facilities. For a wider selection of amenities, nearby towns such as Cookstown, which is a starting point for the Slieve Gallion loop, would offer cafes, pubs, and accommodation options.