The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Monaghan Municipal District
4.4
(17)
220
hikers
7
hikes
Dog friendly hiking trails around Monaghan Municipal District traverse a landscape shaped by drumlin hills, tranquil lakes, and extensive forests. The region features undulating terrain with varied elevations, offering diverse hiking experiences. Key natural features include numerous lakes like Lough Muckno and Emy Lough, alongside woodlands such as Rossmore Forest Park. These physical characteristics contribute to a network of routes suitable for various activity levels.
Best dog friendly hiking trails around Monaghan Municipal District
- The most popular dog friendly hiking…
Last updated: May 13, 2026
4.5
(2)
6
hikers
13.4km
03:35
170m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
1
hikers
4.88km
01:18
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
5.0
(1)
8
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
4.15km
01:06
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
6.49km
01:44
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
The remains of the old Castle are located in the centre of the park surrounded by lakes. An interesting point to add to your adventure.
0
0
A charming path along the Ulster Canal Greenway. The best way to get out of the city to head over Rossmore Forest Park.
0
0
In the centre of the park, the remains of the old Castle is an interesting point to add to your adventure.
0
0
Trail loops around this charming lake in Rossmore Forest Park. Mixed terrain but could be busy.
0
0
Roddy den Drum looms at an impressive 10m tall. It is said he created all the lakes in Rossmore Forest Park with his hands.
1
0
The Morrigan is the term given to Goddess Morrigan, one of the triple Goddesses in Celtic mythology. She represented the circle of life and was associated with both birth and death. Her name translates to “great queen” or “phantom queen”. She was a shape-shifter and looked over the rivers, fresh water and lakes. She is also described as being the patroness of revenge, magic, priestesses, night, prophecy and witches. She is often depicted as a triple goddess but this varies by source. In Celtic mythology, the number three has incredible significance. At times, Morrigan is featured as one of three sisters while other times she is a singular figure. (https://mythology.net/others/gods/the-morrigan/)
3
0
Garaidh Den Drum is known as Spike and is a spear thrower. He is on the hill facing Roddy and waiting to catch you out. A large spike at the split in the path is a sure sign that Garaidh is close by. (https://travel2ireland.ie/the-giants-of-the-drumlins-monaghan-forest-trail/)
3
0
The Rossmore Mausoleum is built on a rocky outcrop over a small river and waterfall. It is described by the 5th Baron Rossmore in his autobiography “Things I Can Tell” as "so beautifully situated that it may well be said to make one fall in love with Death". The Mausoleum and adjoining graveyard is hidden in Brown’s Wood in the midst of Rossmore Forest Park, Monaghan. The building was designed by E.J. Tarver for the 4th Baron Rossmore who died after a hunting accident at Windsor Castle in 1874 aged 23. After years of neglect & vandalism the building was in a very poor state of repair. A conservation group was formed in 2008 and has successfully repaired the terracotta tiled roof & and re-pointed the dome. This conservation work is ongoing as can be seen from the photograph. The group is intending to include the restoration of the windows in the next phase of work. Unfortunately only a few fragments of glass remain and very little detail is known, the group would welcome any information or pointers as to the original design. (https://www.geograph.ie/photo/1645163)
3
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many dog-friendly hiking trails are available in Monaghan Municipal District?
There are several dog-friendly hiking trails in Monaghan Municipal District, with komoot featuring 7 routes specifically curated for you and your canine companion. These range from easy strolls to more moderate hikes, ensuring options for various fitness levels.
What types of landscapes can I expect on dog-friendly hikes in Monaghan Municipal District?
Monaghan Municipal District offers a diverse range of landscapes for dog-friendly hikes. You'll find trails winding through tranquil forests like Rossmore Forest Park, past picturesque lakes such as Barn Hill Lough, and across the distinctive rolling drumlin hills that characterize the region. Some areas, like Sliabh Beagh, also feature rugged bogland terrain.
Are there any easy dog-friendly walks suitable for families or beginners?
Yes, Monaghan Municipal District has several easy dog-friendly walks perfect for families or those new to hiking. For instance, the Rossmore Forest Park loop is an easy 4.8 km trail. The Ulster Canal Greenway also offers an accessible, wheelchair-friendly linear path suitable for all ages and dogs on leads.
Where can I find a moderate dog-friendly hike with varied scenery?
For a moderate dog-friendly hike with varied scenery, consider the Monaghan — Rossmore Forest Park loop. This 13.3 km route offers a good challenge and takes you through woodlands, past lakes, and allows you to explore features within Rossmore Forest Park.
What interesting sights can I see along dog-friendly trails in the area?
Many dog-friendly trails in Monaghan Municipal District offer interesting sights. In Rossmore Forest Park, you can discover castle ruins, various sculptures like the Garaidh Den Drum (Spike) Sculpture, and walk along a yew tree avenue. Lakes such as Barn Hill Lough and Lough Antrawar also provide beautiful natural focal points.
Are there any circular dog-friendly walks in Monaghan Municipal District?
Yes, several dog-friendly routes in the area are circular. Examples include the Rossmore Forest Park loop, the Barn Hill Lough – Rossmore Castle Ruins loop, and the Banba Sculpture – Barn Hill Lough loop, all offering convenient starting and ending points.
What do other hikers enjoy most about dog-friendly hiking in Monaghan Municipal District?
The komoot community highly rates hiking in Monaghan Municipal District, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet woodlands, well-marked paths, and the beautiful lakeside views, making it an enjoyable experience for both hikers and their dogs.
Are there any specific forest parks that welcome dogs?
Rossmore Forest Park is a highly popular attraction near Monaghan Town that welcomes dogs. It features a variety of trails, including a moderate 6 km loop, and offers amenities like picnic areas, making it an ideal spot for outings with your dog.
Can I find dog-friendly trails with good views in Monaghan Municipal District?
Absolutely. The region's characteristic drumlin hills provide changing elevations and expansive views. For example, the Sliabh Beagh area, particularly around Lough Antrawar, offers panoramic vistas that stretch across Monaghan, Fermanagh, and Tyrone.
Are there any long-distance dog-friendly trails in the area?
For those seeking a longer adventure, the Monaghan Way is a National Waymarked Way that is dog-friendly. This moderate linear trail spans either 18.5 km or 21 km, tracing old railway lines, quiet country lanes, and fields, offering scenic countryside views and passing Lough Ross.
Are there any dog-friendly trails that are also accessible for buggies or wheelchairs?
Yes, the Ulster Canal Greenway in Monaghan Town is an easily accessible and wheelchair-friendly linear trail along the historic Ulster Canal towpath. This 4.2 km route is suitable for all ages and welcomes dogs on leads, making it a great option for those with buggies or wheelchairs.
Most popular routes around Monaghan Municipal District
Most popular attractions around Monaghan Municipal District
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
