Easy hikes and walks around Coolnasillagh

Coolnasillagh offers 8 easy hiking trails, perfect for those seeking gentle walks with minimal elevation gain. In total, there are 20 hiking routes in the area, catering to various fitness levels.

Yes, Coolnasillagh features several easy loop trails. For example, the Glenshane Forest loop from Roe is a 6.9 km route through coniferous woodlands, and the Drumnaph Forest – Drumnph Forest loop from Drumnaph Nature Reserve offers a gentle 4.6 km walk.

Easy hikes in Coolnasillagh allow you to explore diverse natural features. You can encounter coniferous woodlands like Glenshane Forest, heather moorland, and the River Roe. The area is also home to species-rich wet grasslands, designated an Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI). For more information on this unique habitat, you can visit the DAERA NI website.

Yes, the beautiful Altkeeran Waterfall is accessible via an easy trail. The Altkeeran Waterfall loop from Pollan Burn is a 5.8 km route that leads directly to this scenic spot. You can also find more details about the waterfall on its highlight page: Altkeeran Waterfall.

The easy trails in Coolnasillagh are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 40 reviews. Hikers often praise the area's varied terrain, the peaceful ancient woodlands, and the accessibility of routes suitable for families and beginners.

Absolutely. Many of the easy hiking trails in Coolnasillagh are explicitly noted as suitable for all skill levels, including short hikes and kid-friendly excursions. The minimal elevation gain and well-defined paths make them ideal for family outings.

Coolnasillagh offers rewarding experiences year-round. While specific seasonal conditions vary, spring and summer provide lush greenery and milder weather, ideal for enjoying the woodlands and grasslands. Autumn brings vibrant colours, and even winter can be beautiful, though some paths might be muddier. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

While many easy trails focus on forest and river valley exploration, some routes offer glimpses of the wider landscape. For panoramic views, you might consider visiting the Carntogher Summit Cairn, which is near some of the area's trails, though reaching the summit itself might involve more moderate sections.

Yes, beyond Glenshane Forest, you can also explore Drumnaph Forest with the Drumnaph Forest – Drumnph Forest loop from Drumnaph Nature Reserve. Another option is Derrynoyd Forest, accessible via the Derrynoyd Forest loop from Draperstown, offering further natural exploration opportunities.

Easy hikes in Coolnasillagh typically range from under an hour to around two hours. For instance, the Derrynoyd Forest loop from Draperstown can be completed in under an hour, while the Glenshane Forest loop from Roe takes about 1 hour 50 minutes.

After your hike, you can explore several nearby attractions. These include the Slieve Gallion NE Top Summit, the serene Altnaheglish Reservoir, and the expansive Banagher Forest. The Altkeeran Waterfall is also a popular natural highlight.