The best running trails around Camly (Ball)

There are currently 6 dedicated jogging routes around Camly (Ball) listed on komoot. These routes offer a variety of experiences within the unique landscape of the Ring of Gullion.

Jogging in Camly (Ball) is unique due to its setting within the Ring of Gullion, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This area features a distinctive geological 'ring dyke' formation, heather-clad mountain slopes, and the extinct volcano of Slieve Gullion. You'll find a mix of challenging mountain trails with panoramic views and more serene paths around loughs and in forest parks.

While the komoot guide primarily features moderate to difficult trails, the wider Camly (Ball) area, including places like Lurgan Park, offers gentler, well-maintained paths. Lurgan Park, for instance, provides flatter, accessible routes around its 59-acre man-made lake, ideal for beginners or those seeking a less strenuous run.

Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the Camlough Mountain loop — Ring of Gullion is a difficult route with substantial elevation gain. Another option is the Slieve Gullion Summit – Calliagh Beara Lough loop from Camlough Lake, which leads to the 573-meter summit of Slieve Gullion, offering a true mountain running experience with rocky sections and rewarding panoramic views.

Absolutely. Many of the routes in the area are designed as loops, providing a convenient circular experience. Examples include the popular Camlough Lake running loop — Ring of Gullion, the Camlough Mountain loop — Ring of Gullion, and the Slieve Gullion Summit – Calliagh Beara Lough loop from Camlough Lake.

Yes, several routes incorporate beautiful loughs. The Camlough Lake running loop — Ring of Gullion offers scenic views around Camlough Lake. Additionally, the Slieve Gullion Summit – Calliagh Beara Lough loop from Camlough Lake leads to the tranquil Calliagh Beara Lough, a quiet mountain lake steeped in legend.

The routes in Camly (Ball) offer access to several significant natural landmarks. You can reach the Slieve Gullion Summit, which hosts the highest Passage Tomb in the British Isles and provides fantastic panoramic views. Other notable features include the North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and the ancient Ballykeel Dolmen.

While some mountain trails can be challenging, the broader region offers family-friendly options. Slieve Gullion Forest Park has amenities and shorter, accessible paths within its grounds. For very young children or those preferring flatter terrain, Lurgan Park provides well-maintained paths around its lake, which is generally suitable for families.

Many outdoor areas in the Ring of Gullion and Slieve Gullion Forest Park are dog-friendly, but it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially in areas with livestock or wildlife. Specific rules may apply in certain sections or protected areas, so checking local signage is advisable.

Parking is generally available at key access points for popular trails. For instance, Slieve Gullion Forest Park has a car park at Meigh, which serves as a starting point for the Slieve Gullion Walk to the summit. For routes around Camlough Lake, there are often designated parking areas nearby. It's always best to check specific route details for precise parking information.

The komoot community highly rates the running experiences in Camly (Ball). Over 110 runners have explored these trails, often praising the diverse terrain, from volcanic landscapes and heather-clad hills to tranquil loughs. The stunning panoramic views from Slieve Gullion and the unique geological features of the Ring of Gullion are frequently highlighted as major draws.