The best walks and hikes around Lisnamurrikin

Yes, the area offers several options for walking with your dog. Many of the riverside paths are suitable, but it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially near farmland. For a dedicated woodland walk, Galgorm Castle loop from Galgorm offers a pleasant route. Another popular spot for dog walkers is Rea's Wood, known for its forest trails, though be prepared to carry out any dog waste as bins are not provided.

The region is well-suited for family outings, with many flat and accessible paths. The Maine Riverside Walk is a local favourite for families, offering a good path with seating along the way. For a shorter, easy walk that's great for all ages, the River Braid loop from Broughshane is an excellent choice, following the gentle banks of the river.

Yes, most of the popular trails around Lisnamurrikin are loop walks, making logistics simple. For a longer, more moderate circular route, consider the Devenagh Burn Riverbank loop from Cullybackey, which is a 7.8-mile (12.5 km) exploration of the local river system. Many shorter loops are also available.

For the most dramatic panoramic views, the ascent of Slemish Mountain is unmatched in the immediate area. This extinct volcano core offers 360-degree vistas over County Antrim, Lough Neagh, and even to the coast on a clear day. The climb is steep and rocky but relatively short.

The hiking is primarily characterized by gentle, flat riverside paths and walks through open farmland. Routes often follow the River Braid and Devenagh Burn. While most trails are easy, some paths, like those along the Maine Riverside Walk, can become muddy in winter, so good footwear is recommended.

The majority of the documented hikes are rated as easy, making the area very accessible. There are a handful of moderate routes for those seeking a bit more distance, but you won't find any technically difficult or expert-level mountain climbs in the immediate trail network. The main challenge in the vicinity is the steep, short climb up Slemish Mountain.

Parking availability varies. Popular spots near towns like Broughshane generally have adequate parking for trails starting there. However, some more remote trailheads, such as the one for the Dungonnell Way Trail, have very limited parking. It's always a good idea to arrive early, especially on weekends.

Accessing trailheads directly via public transport can be challenging as many are in rural locations. Your best option is to take a bus to a nearby town like Broughshane or Ballymena and then walk to a trailhead from there. The Devenagh Burn Riverbank loop from Broughshane is one such route accessible from the town.

Given the changeable Irish weather, layers are essential. A waterproof jacket is a must-have, even if the forecast looks clear. For footwear, waterproof hiking shoes or boots are highly recommended, as many of the riverside and woodland paths can be muddy, particularly outside of summer.

While most local trails are easy, those looking for a challenge can find it. Ronans Way Hikes offers a tough 'red route' that walkers find very rewarding. For a longer, moderately challenging day out, the Devenagh Burn Riverbank loop from Ballykeel provides a good distance to cover.

The immediate trails around Lisnamurrikin are focused on rivers and farmland rather than waterfalls. However, the area is known as a 'Gateway to the Glens.' For impressive waterfalls, a short drive to Glenariff Forest Park is highly recommended. It's celebrated as the 'Queen of the Glens' and features stunning waterfall walks.

The komoot community rates the area's hikes positively. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, flat riverside paths that are perfect for accessible walks. The proximity to more dramatic landscapes like Slemish Mountain and the Glens of Antrim is also a major highlight for visitors looking for varied outdoor experiences.