The best walks and hikes in Loughermore Forest

Yes, you can bring your dog to Loughermore Forest. The quiet, expansive nature of the forest makes it a great place for walks. However, as it is a working forest and home to wildlife, it's recommended to keep your dog under control, especially in areas with livestock or during bird nesting seasons.

While the forest's rugged and unmarked nature is better suited for experienced hikers, there are options for families. The Loughermore Forest loop from Gortnahey is a shorter, easier walk on forest tracks that can be a good choice for an adventurous family outing. Always be prepared with navigation tools as there are no signposts.

Yes, circular walks are the most common way to explore the area. A popular option that takes you to the summit is the Loughermore loop from Gortnahey. This route follows a network of forest tracks to create a rewarding loop with panoramic views.

There is no official, large car park for Loughermore Forest. Most hikers park at informal roadside spots near the forest entrances, particularly around Gortnahey. Please park considerately, ensuring you do not block any gates or access roads.

No, a key characteristic of Loughermore Forest is its undeveloped nature. There are no waymarked or signposted trails. You will be following a network of forest tracks, so using a GPS device or a navigation app like komoot is essential for finding your way.

Waterproof hiking boots with good grip are strongly recommended. The trails consist of forest tracks which can be muddy and uneven, and the ground is often soft and peaty, especially after rain. The weather can change quickly, so proper footwear is crucial for a safe and comfortable hike.

Accessing Loughermore Forest via public transport is challenging due to its rural location. There are no direct bus or train services to the forest entrances. The most practical way to reach the area is by car.

The ascent to the summit of Loughermore mountain is rewarded with spectacular 360-degree panoramic views on a clear day. You can see across Lough Foyle, the Donegal hills, and the wider Sperrin mountain range.

Yes, the area is rich in history and contains several Neolithic monuments. While exploring, you may come across ancient wedge tombs, stone circles, and barrows. One notable site is known locally as the "Giant's Grave."

The komoot community rates the hikes here highly. Reviewers often praise the sense of peace, tranquility, and wildness. The freedom to explore without marked trails is a major draw for those seeking a true adventure, though they also stress the need for navigation skills.

If you're looking for a different experience, the Ness Country Park – Wooden Bridge in Forest loop from Claudy is a great option. It offers a more developed trail system with woodlands and the famous Ness waterfalls, providing a contrast to the rugged openness of Loughermore.

The hikes range from easy to moderate. While there are no technically difficult climbs, the main challenges are navigation due to the lack of waymarking, and endurance for the longer loops with significant elevation gain, such as the Loughermore – Loughermore Forest loop from Gortnahey.