The best running trails around Carnmoney Bog
4.6
(44)
4,819
runners
115
runs
Jogging around Carnmoney Bog offers a diverse natural setting for outdoor activity within an urban area. The region features ancient woodland, grassland, wetland, and wildflower meadows, providing varied terrain for runners. Carnmoney Hill rises 232 meters (761 feet), offering extensive panoramic views from its summit. Its slopes are composed mainly of limestone and flint, creating a unique geological landscape for running.
Best jogging routes around Carnmoney Bog
- The most popular jogging route is View of Belfast Lough – Cave Hill Cave loop from Church of the Holy Evangelists, a 11.4 miles (18.3 km) trail that takes 2 hours 25 minutes to complete. This challenging route offers extensive views across Belfast city and Belfast Lough.
- Another top favourite among local runners is Running loop from Church of the Holy Evangelists, a moderate 4.0 miles (6.5 km) path. This route provides a balanced experience through varied landscapes, including sections of woodland.
- Local runners also love the Running loop from Diageo Baileys Global Supply, a 3.1 miles (5.0 km) trail leading through local green spaces, often completed in about 30 minutes.
- Jogging around Carnmoney Bog is defined by ancient woodlands, open grasslands, and panoramic hill views. The network of running routes offers options for different ability levels, from easy paths to more challenging ascents.
- The routes in Carnmoney Bog are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 30 reviews. More than 5000 runners have used komoot to explore Carnmoney Bog's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
4.0
(1)
53
runners
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
28
runners
6.52km
00:40
30m
30m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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16
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
11
runners
5.13km
00:32
40m
40m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
runners
7.68km
00:49
100m
100m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Super beautiful cave, but watch out for falling rocks
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Belfast Castle sits at the foot of Cave Hill and is one of the most iconic locations to view the stunning skyline of Belfast City Built in the 1860s, the estate remains a perfect location for locals and tourists to explore the surrounding natural woodland, parkland and gardens. It’s also home to the Cave Hill Adventurous Playground, archaeological sites, a visitor information centre, eco trails and orienteering routes. It also contains both parkland and mature mixed woodland and is home to many different species of wildlife, including long-eared owls, sparrowhawks and Belfast’s rarest plant, the town hall clock.
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These beautiful ancient cave formations in Cave Hill Country Park lay inside the largest and highest granite outcrops in the region. The caves are home to indigenous cave paintings that tell the Dreamtime creation story of the Seven Sisters. The route bypasses the cave however, if you have time, it's definitely worth stepping inside and exploring.
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Magnificent castle built in the 1860s and one of the city's most famous landmarks. The castle is situated on the lower slopes of the Cave Hill Country Park and is surrounded by lush greenery and mixed woodland. The castle is open to explore everyday between 9am-6pm, parking and admission is free.
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Napolean's Nose is a cliff-edge that is said to resemble the profile of the famous emperor Napolean. See if you can spot the similiarity as you jog by.
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Magnificent castle built in the 1860s and one of the city's most famous landmarks. The castle is situated on the lower slopes of the Cave Hill Country Park and is surrounded by lush greenery and mixed woodland. The castle is open to explore everyday between 9am-6pm, parking and admission is free.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available in the Carnmoney Bog area?
There are over 100 running routes around Carnmoney Bog, offering a wide variety of options for all skill levels. The komoot community has explored more than 117 different trails in the region.
Are there easy running routes suitable for beginners or a relaxed jog?
Yes, Carnmoney Bog offers several easy running routes. For example, the Running loop from Diageo Baileys Global Supply is an easy 3.1-mile (5.0 km) trail that takes about 30 minutes to complete, leading through local green spaces.
What kind of views can I expect while running around Carnmoney Bog?
The region is renowned for its extensive panoramic views. From the summit of Carnmoney Hill, you can see across Belfast city, Belfast Lough, north Down, the Mourne Mountains, Slemish Mountain, and even the distant Antrim coast. Many routes offer these spectacular vistas, such as the challenging View of Belfast Lough – Cave Hill Cave loop from Church of the Holy Evangelists.
Are there any family-friendly running trails in Carnmoney Bog?
Carnmoney Bog features a variety of routes with different lengths and inclines, making it suitable for families. While specific 'family-friendly' designations aren't always given, shorter, less challenging paths like the Running loop from Diageo Baileys Global Supply are often good choices for a run with children.
What historical or natural attractions can I discover along the running paths?
Beyond its natural beauty, Carnmoney Bog is rich in history. You can find ancient remnants like Dunanney Rath, an early Christian rath, souterrains (prehistoric underground tunnels), and the remains of Victorian limekilns. Natural attractions include the diverse landscapes of ancient woodland, grassland, wetland, and vibrant wildflower meadows. Nearby, you can also explore highlights such as Cave Hill and Cave Hill Cave.
Are there circular running routes available in the area?
Yes, many of the running paths in Carnmoney Bog are designed as loops. For example, the Running loop from Church of the Holy Evangelists is a moderate 4.0-mile (6.5 km) circular path that provides a balanced experience through varied landscapes.
What is the best time of year to go running in Carnmoney Bog?
Carnmoney Bog is beautiful year-round, but springtime is particularly special when the woodlands are beautifully carpeted with bluebells. The diverse landscapes offer a refreshing natural setting for exercise in any season.
Is there parking available near the running trails?
While specific parking locations for each route are best checked on individual komoot tour pages, Carnmoney Bog is generally accessible, and parking facilities are typically available at common entry points to the hill and its trails.
Can I reach the running routes by public transport?
Carnmoney Bog is situated within an urban area, making it generally accessible by public transport. Local bus services often operate in the vicinity of the trailheads. It's advisable to check local transport schedules for the most convenient stops near your chosen starting point.
What do other runners say about the trails in Carnmoney Bog?
The running routes in Carnmoney Bog are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 30 reviews. Runners often praise the varied terrain, the stunning panoramic views, and the opportunity to enjoy a natural escape within an urban setting.
Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting while running?
Yes, Carnmoney Bog is a vital haven for diverse wildlife within an urban setting. Its varied habitats, including ancient woodland, grassland, and wetland, support creatures such as foxes, Irish Hares, long-eared owls, and bats. Keep an eye out, especially during quieter times of day.
What should I consider regarding trail conditions, especially after rain?
Given the diverse landscapes of Carnmoney Bog, which include wetland areas and woodland paths, some sections of the trails can become muddy, especially after rain. It's always recommended to wear appropriate footwear with good grip, particularly during wetter seasons, to ensure a comfortable and safe run.
Most popular routes around Carnmoney Bog
Most popular attractions around Carnmoney Bog
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