The best walks and hikes around Lisnamuck

There are over 20 trails to explore around Lisnamuck, ranging from easy forest loops to more challenging ascents in the Sperrin Mountains. The area offers a good mix, with 9 easy routes, 14 moderate ones, and at least one difficult trail for experienced hikers.

Yes, many of the popular trails in the area are loops. For a shorter, easier walk, the Glenshane Forest loop is a great option. For something more demanding, the Glenshane Forest – Glenshane Pass loop from Lisnamuck offers a rewarding circular route through woodland and up towards the pass.

The region is well-suited for beginners and family outings. You'll find several easy, shorter trails. A great example is the Pyramid Trail in Garvagh Forest, which is a flat, 1.3-kilometer all-ability path that follows the Agivey River. Ness Country Park also offers accessible riverside walks.

Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the Sperrin Mountains provide more strenuous options. The Crockbrack Way — Sperrins is a demanding hike with significant elevation gain, offering expansive views over the surrounding landscape as a reward.

Yes, you can. The Carntogher Way via Altkeeran Waterfall — Sperrins trail incorporates a visit to the lovely Altkeeran Waterfall. Additionally, a short drive away is Ness Country Park, which is famous for being home to the highest waterfall in Northern Ireland.

Dogs are generally welcome on many trails in the area, including those in public forests like Glenshane and Garvagh. However, it's best practice to keep them on a lead, especially near farmland with livestock or in sensitive wildlife areas. Always be prepared to clean up after your pet.

The terrain is quite varied. You can expect well-maintained forest tracks in places like Glenshane Forest and Moydamlaght Forest, open moorland paths in the higher Sperrins, and gentle riverside walks. Some routes, like the Priest's Chair via Glenshane Forest — Sperrins, combine woodland paths with ascents onto rolling hills.

The hiking routes around Lisnamuck are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the mix of peaceful forest trails, the scenic views from the hills, and the well-marked paths through the Sperrins.

Definitely. In Garvagh Forest, you can find a unique 19th-century stone pyramid, which is the burial chamber of a former lord. For a great viewpoint, the Eagle Rock Trail via Moydamlaght Forest — Sperrins leads to a spot with fantastic panoramic views.

You can hike here year-round, but spring and summer are particularly beautiful. In April and May, the forests are often carpeted with bluebells, while summer brings out foxgloves and orchids. Autumn offers stunning colours in the broadleaved sections of the woodlands. Always check the weather before you go, especially for hill walks.

Reaching the trailheads directly by public transport can be challenging as many are in rural locations. Bus services may run to nearby towns like Maghera or Magherafelt, but you would likely need a taxi for the final leg to trailheads like those in Glenshane Forest. Driving is generally the most convenient option.

Most of the main forest parks, such as Garvagh Forest and Ness Country Park, have dedicated car parks. For trails starting in more remote locations or directly from townlands like Lisnamuck, parking may be limited to informal roadside spots. Please park considerately and do not block access for local residents or farm traffic.