The best running trails around Loughermore

Komoot offers a wide selection of running routes in the Loughermore area, with over 70 trails available. These range from easy strolls to more challenging long-distance runs, catering to various fitness levels.

The jogging routes around Loughermore offer a good mix of difficulty. You'll find approximately 6 easy routes, over 60 moderate paths, and about 9 more difficult trails, ensuring options for beginners and experienced runners alike.

Yes, many of the routes in Loughermore are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Foxes Pub – Templepatrick BP loop from Freemanstown is a popular 6.9-mile (11.1 km) circular trail, and the Foxes Pub – Templepatrick BP loop from Templepatrick Park & Share offers a moderate 5.5-mile (8.8 km) loop.

Loughermore offers a diverse running experience. You'll encounter wide forest tracks, coniferous plantations, and open peaty hills. This varied terrain, predominantly within Loughermore Forest, provides different surfaces and scenic backdrops for your run.

While jogging, you can enjoy panoramic views over Lough Foyle and the distant Donegal hills from higher elevations. The area is also rich in history, featuring Neolithic monuments like wedge tombs and stone circles. Some routes may pass by attractions such as Antrim Castle Gardens or offer glimpses of the Lough Neagh Shore.

Loughermore Forest provides a tranquil and varied environment that can be enjoyed by families. While there are no formally marked trails, the wide forest tracks and less challenging sections of routes like the Running loop from Dunadry (3.2 miles / 5.1 km) can be suitable for families looking for an outdoor activity.

Loughermore Forest is generally welcoming to dogs, making it a great spot for dog-friendly runs. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs under control, especially given the presence of wildlife and other visitors, and to adhere to any local signage or regulations.

The komoot community highly rates the running experience in Loughermore, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Runners often praise the sense of peace and wildness, the diverse landscapes, and the opportunity to explore without rigid routes, enjoying the extensive views and varied terrain.

Generally, no specific permits are required for jogging within Loughermore Forest. The area encourages exploration, though it's worth noting that there are no formal marked trails, so navigation skills are beneficial.

Loughermore offers beautiful scenery year-round. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant colours, while summer is ideal for longer daylight hours. Even in winter, the forest can be atmospheric, but runners should be prepared for potentially wet or muddy conditions on the peaty hills and tracks.

While specific parking areas for each route may vary, Loughermore Forest is intersected by several roads, which often provide informal parking opportunities. For routes starting from specific locations like Templepatrick, designated Park & Share facilities are available.

Yes, for those seeking a greater challenge, Loughermore offers longer routes. The Antrim Castle Gardens – The Protector of the Lough loop from Rathbeg is a difficult 12.0-mile (19.3 km) trail, and the Antrim Castle Gardens – Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim loop from Templepatrick Park & Share extends to 18.1 miles (29.1 km), providing significant elevation and distance.