The best walks and hikes around Carrowcowan

There are over 20 hiking trails around Carrowcowan, offering a diverse range of experiences. These include easy forest walks, moderate scenic routes, and more challenging long-distance hikes through the Antrim Hills.

Hikes around Carrowcowan are rich in natural beauty, particularly within Glenariff Forest Park. You'll encounter dramatic glens, ancient woodlands, and numerous cascading waterfalls. The area is known for its steep-sided gorges carved by rivers, and higher elevations offer expansive coastal views, sometimes even glimpses of the Scottish coast. You can explore highlights like the Inver River Waterfall and Ess-na-Laragh Waterfall.

Yes, Glenariff Forest Park offers several family-friendly options. An easy and popular choice is the Waterfall Trail via Rainbow Trail, which is about 4.6 km long and takes around 1 hour 20 minutes. This trail features numerous waterfalls and the famous Rainbow Bridge, making it engaging for all ages. The park also has amenities like picnic areas.

Many trails in the Carrowcowan area, especially within Glenariff Forest Park, are dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, particularly in areas with wildlife or livestock, and to check specific trail regulations before you go.

Yes, there are several circular walks. For an easy option, consider the View of Glenariff Valley – Glenariff Forest loop from Cargan, which is about 5.7 km. For a more challenging experience, the Inver River Waterfall – Ess-na-Laragh Waterfall loop from Antrim Coast & Glens AONB is a difficult 19.9 km route that takes you past multiple waterfalls and along river paths.

The area around Carrowcowan is beautiful year-round, but spring and summer offer the most pleasant conditions for hiking, with lush greenery and full-flowing waterfalls. Autumn brings vibrant foliage. While winter hiking is possible, be prepared for potentially wet and windy conditions, especially on exposed moorland trails.

For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, the Antrim Hills Way, which traverses exposed moorland, cliffs, and country tracks, offers a more strenuous experience. Within the guide, the Inver River Waterfall – Ess-na-Laragh Waterfall loop from Antrim Coast & Glens AONB is a difficult 19.9 km trail with significant elevation changes.

The trails in Carrowcowan are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.8 stars from over 160 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the stunning waterfalls, dramatic glens, and the well-maintained paths within Glenariff Forest Park, as well as the expansive coastal views from higher points.

Yes, several trails provide excellent viewpoints. The Scenic Trail, a moderate 9.6 km route, is specifically designed to offer comprehensive views of the valley, descending into the gorge and climbing to higher points for extensive panoramas. Higher elevations in Glenariff and along the Antrim Hills Way also provide expansive coastal vistas.

Glenariff Forest Park, a central hiking hub near Carrowcowan, offers amenities such as parking, picnic areas, and a tea house. This makes it convenient for day trips and provides a place to refresh before or after your hike.

The Carrowcowan area caters to all fitness levels. You'll find 10 easy trails, 9 moderate trails, and 2 difficult trails. This variety ensures options for casual walkers, families, and experienced hikers looking for a challenge.