The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Carrick-on-Shannon Municipal District
4.6
(40)
264
hikers
12
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Carrick-on-Shannon Municipal District are defined by tranquil waterways, lush woodlands, and rolling hills. The region is shaped by the River Shannon and its network of canals, providing diverse terrain from gentle riverside paths to more elevated sections. Expansive areas like Lough Key Forest and Activity Park offer varied woodland and water features, while the general landscape includes majestic woods and rolling hills suitable for exploration.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Carrick-on-Shannon Municipal District
- The…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
5.0
(3)
22
hikers
4.64km
01:14
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
22
hikers
12.0km
03:03
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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7
hikers
2.56km
00:40
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
3
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
5.18km
01:19
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Aghoo Bridge crosses the Shannon–Erne Waterway. It's an access point for the waterside trail and an escape point to reach the nearby Riversdale Farm B&B.
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With its picturesque scenery, serene waters and attendant gastropubs, the Shannon-Erne Waterway is popular with cruisers and visitors. It links the Shannon Navigation and the Erne System, two of the nation's great waterways. This section near Ballinamore makes for a pleasant amble.
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An attractive waterside town, Ballinamore has much to offer visitors. Its lively streets host good pubs and restaurants, while a stroll along the towpath of the Shannon-Erne Waterway is very pleasant. The town is renowned for its abundance of coarse angling waters.
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This lock on the Shannon–Erne Waterway features on the Ballinamore Town Loop, a picturesque route that makes full use of the canal's towpath. With its rich heritage and waterside setting, Ballinamore itself is a great place to explore and is particularly renowned for its wealth of coarse angling waters.
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For a short woodland amble with lake views, you can't go too far wrong by exploring Derrycarne Wood. This mixed broadleaf /conifer woodland is a delight and dogs are allowed too if on a lead. The trees were planted in the 1960s and provide a superb shaded stroll on hot days.
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The Lough Boderg Trail in Derrycarne Wood provides lovely views across Lough Boderg. It's particularly magical at sunset, when our great celestial orb sinks beyond the watery horizon.
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This is a picturesque spot in Derrycarne Wood where a jetty juts out into the strait between Loughs Boderg and Bofin. The loop through this gorgeous mixed broadleaf and conifer woodland is wonderfully tranquil.
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Road bridge at Battle Bridge across the Lough Allen Canal. Easy access to the pub, campsite and tow path.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in the Carrick-on-Shannon Municipal District?
There are 8 family-friendly hiking trails in the Carrick-on-Shannon Municipal District featured in this guide. These include 5 easy routes and 3 moderate options, offering a variety of experiences for families.
What kind of landscapes can we expect on family hikes in this region?
The region offers diverse landscapes, from tranquil riverside paths along the River Shannon and its canals to lush woodlands and rolling hills. You'll find serene beauty, especially along the Shannon Blueway, and areas like Lough Key Forest and Activity Park provide a mix of woodland and water features.
Are there any easy, short walks suitable for families with young children?
Yes, for an easy and shorter option, consider the Kilronan Castle Looped Walks – Doon Point loop, which is just over 2 km. Another great choice is the Kilronan castle loop, which is about 4.6 km and offers scenic views around the historic castle grounds.
What are some notable attractions or points of interest we can see along the trails?
Many trails offer interesting sights. The Acres Lake Boardwalk, often called 'the snake in the lake,' provides a unique walk-on-water experience. You can also explore the historic grounds of Kilronan Castle or enjoy views of the Shannon Erne Waterway. The nearby Lough Key Forest and Activity Park features intriguing spots like the Bog Garden and Fairy Bridge.
Are there any circular routes for families who prefer to start and end in the same place?
Absolutely. Many of the routes are circular, making them convenient for families. For example, the Kilronan castle loop and the Kilronan Castle Looped Walks – Doon Point loop are both excellent circular options. For a longer circular experience, consider the Acres Lake Boardwalk – Shanon Erne Waterway loop.
What do other hikers say about the family-friendly trails in this area?
The family-friendly trails in the Carrick-on-Shannon Municipal District are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 37 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquil riverside paths, the well-maintained boardwalks, and the beautiful woodland scenery, making them perfect for a family day out.
Are there any trails that offer a 'walk-on-water' experience?
Yes, the Acres Lake Boardwalk is famous for its unique floating design, giving you the sensation of walking directly on the water. It's a fantastic experience for all ages and a highlight of the Shannon Blueway.
Where can we find a pleasant park for a leisurely stroll in Carrick-on-Shannon itself?
The Linear Park & Biodiversity Garden, located along the River Shannon in Carrick-on-Shannon, is ideal for leisurely strolls. It features native trees, shrubs, and a dedicated biodiversity garden, perfect for a relaxed family walk. You can find more information about it on the Visit Carrick-on-Shannon website.
Are there any moderate trails for families looking for a bit more of a challenge?
Yes, if your family is up for a longer walk, the Shanon Erne Waterway – Acres Lake Boardwalk loop is a moderate option, spanning about 12 km. It offers beautiful scenery along the waterway and is a great way to spend a few hours outdoors.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in this region?
The Carrick-on-Shannon Municipal District is beautiful year-round. Summer offers vibrant greenery and longer daylight hours, perfect for extended walks. However, the dramatic bare trees in winter also provide a unique charm. Spring and autumn bring pleasant temperatures and beautiful colors, making them excellent times for family hikes.
Are there any trails that pass by historic castles or significant landmarks?
Certainly! The trails around Kilronan Castle, such as the Kilronan castle loop, offer scenic views of the historic castle grounds. While not directly on these family-friendly routes, the wider region also features sites like Sheemore Hill, known as the 'Hill of the Fairies,' with mythological significance and ancient tombs.
Most popular routes around Carrick-on-Shannon Municipal District
Most popular attractions around Carrick-on-Shannon Municipal District
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