The best walks and hikes around Dunmurry

Yes, several trails are great for families. Colin Glen Forest Park is a popular choice, known for its scenic woodland and family-oriented activities like the Gruffalo Trail. For a gentle, flat walk suitable for all abilities, the Lough Trail on Divis and Black Mountain is an excellent option.

Many trails in the area are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept under control. The expansive Lagan Valley Regional Park and the trails within Belvoir Park Forest are popular spots for dog walkers. Always check local signage for specific on-lead requirements, especially in areas with wildlife or livestock.

The hikes around Dunmurry range from easy to moderate. You'll find flat, accessible paths like the Lagan Towpath, perfect for a gentle stroll. For more of a challenge, the Belfast Hills offer moderate climbs with rewarding views. There are 12 moderate and 5 easy routes available, with no officially graded difficult hikes.

Yes, there are several excellent circular routes. The Ridge Trail on Divis and Black Mountain is a 4.2-mile loop offering spectacular 180-degree views. For a woodland experience, the Glenshane Forest – Glenshane Pass loop is a well-regarded moderate walk that takes you through the forest.

Colin Glen Forest Park is your best destination for waterfalls. The park is centered around the Colin River and features several cascades along its scenic riverside walks, offering a true wilderness feel close to the city.

Hikers have many highly-regarded options. Key areas include:

• Divis and the Black Mountain: A local favorite managed by the National Trust, offering panoramic views across the city to the Mourne Mountains.
• Colin Glen Forest Park: Known as Belfast's "green lung," it provides a mix of gentle and challenging woodland trails.
• Belvoir Park Forest: A large, mature forest along the River Lagan with peaceful walking paths.

Most major parks have parking, but it can be limited. The car park at Divis and the Black Mountain is known to fill up quickly, so arriving early is recommended. Colin Glen and Belvoir Park Forest also have parking facilities. However, some smaller access points, like those for Cregagh Glen, may have no dedicated parking, requiring you to park responsibly nearby.

Yes, Dunmurry's location between Belfast and Lisburn provides good public transport links. Many trailheads, including those for Lagan Valley Regional Park and Colin Glen Forest Park, are accessible via local bus routes from both cities. Dunmurry train station also offers a convenient starting point for walks along the Lagan Towpath.

Definitely. The relatively flat and continuous Lagan Towpath is ideal for long-distance runs. For runners seeking elevation, the paths in the Belfast Hills, such as those on Cave Hill or Divis Mountain, provide excellent training ground with varied terrain.

Yes, for a substantial hike, consider the Altnaheglish Reservoir from Moneyneany Road — Sperrins. This moderate route is nearly 14 km long and takes you around the scenic reservoir, offering a great sense of escape.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the variety of landscapes, from the peaceful riverside paths of the Lagan Valley to the stunning panoramic views from the Belfast Hills.

The vast majority of hiking trails, including those in Lagan Valley Regional Park, the Belfast Hills, and local forest parks, are free to access for walkers. Some specific attractions within the parks, like the adventure activities at Colin Glen, may have separate charges.