The best walks and hikes around Ballymena

Yes, the area offers several gentle walks perfect for families. The River Braid loop from Broughshane is a great option, offering an easy 2.9-mile (4.7 km) path along pleasant riverside scenery. Another excellent choice is the Maine Riverside Walk, which is a popular spot for family strolls with good paths and seating along the way.

For waterfalls, Glenariff Forest Park is the premier destination, often called the 'Queen of the Glens'. It features a highly-regarded Waterfall Walk Trail that winds through a gorge with several spectacular cascades. The sounds of the water are especially impressive after recent rainfall.

Many trails in the Ballymena area are suitable for walking with a dog, but policies can vary. In places like Glenariff Forest Park, dogs are generally welcome but must be kept on a lead. Always check local signage at trailheads for specific rules to ensure you are following the regulations for that area.

The hike to the summit of Slemish Mountain is short, at around 1.5 kilometers, but it is considered challenging. The path is steep and rocky, requiring a good level of fitness and sturdy footwear. The effort is rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Major locations like Glenariff Forest Park and Slemish Mountain have dedicated car parks, though they can get busy, especially on weekends and holidays. For less-trafficked routes, parking may be limited to small lay-bys or on-street parking in nearby villages. It's always a good idea to arrive early to secure a spot.

Yes, there are several enjoyable circular routes. For a gentle walk, the Devenagh Burn Riverbank loop from Ballykeel is a 4.1-mile (6.6 km) trail with very little elevation change. If you're looking for something more challenging, the Dungonnell Reservoir loop from Cargan is a moderate 9.6-mile (15.5 km) hike with beautiful reservoir views.

The trails around Ballymena are highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the region's rich variety, from the lush, rolling hills of the Glens of Antrim to the serene riverside paths. The accessibility of iconic sites like Glenariff Forest and Slemish Mountain is also a frequently mentioned highlight.

Yes, Ballymena is a gateway to some significant long-distance paths. The Antrim Hills Way is a notable route that traverses the scenic Antrim Coast and Glens Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. You can tackle sections of it, such as the Dungonnell Way and Glenariff Forest trail, as part of a day hike.

Hiking is possible year-round, but the best conditions are typically from late spring to early autumn (May to September) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. The glens and forests are particularly beautiful in autumn with the changing colours. Always be prepared for rain, as the weather can change quickly in any season.

The terrain is quite varied. You'll find gentle, well-maintained paths along rivers like the Devenagh Burn and River Braid. In contrast, forest parks such as Glenariff offer a mix of gravel tracks, boardwalks, and steeper sections. Hikes in the Antrim Hills or up Slemish Mountain involve more rugged, open moorland and rocky, uneven ground.

Yes, the area has some lovely walks around reservoirs. The Glenariff Forest – Glenariff Forest loop from Cargan is a longer, more difficult hike that offers expansive views and takes you into the heart of the glens. It's a great choice for experienced hikers looking for a rewarding challenge with impressive scenery.

There are over 20 hiking routes to explore around Ballymena on komoot. These range from easy, short loops perfect for a quick outing to more demanding full-day hikes through the Glens of Antrim, offering something for every fitness level.