The best MTB trails around Ballygunaghan
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riders
4
rides
Mountain bike trails around Ballygunaghan traverse a landscape characterized by rolling hills, dense forests, and scenic lake areas, offering diverse terrain for riders. The region features a mix of established forest paths and more challenging routes with significant elevation changes. Mountain biking here provides access to varied natural environments, including wooded areas and open parkland. The trails often incorporate natural features like waterfalls and lakes, contributing to a dynamic riding experience.
Best mountain bike trails around Ballygunaghan
- The most popular mountain bike trail is Gosford Castle & Park loop from Banbridge, a 29.3 miles (47.2 km) trail that takes 2 hours 56 minutes to complete. This moderate route features significant elevation gain through parkland and forest.
- Another top favourite among local mountain bikers is Craigavon Balancing Lakes – Shortcut loop from Lurgan, an easy 14.7 miles (23.7 km) path. This route offers a gentler ride around lake areas with minimal elevation.
- Local mountain bikers also love the Drumkeeragh Forest – Castlewellan Lake loop from Dromore Cathedral of Christ the Redeemer, a 40.9 miles (65.9 km) trail leading through Drumkeeragh Forest and past Castlewellan Lake, often completed in about 4 hours 32 minutes.
- Mountain biking around Ballygunaghan is defined by forest trails, lake views, and varied elevation profiles. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to difficult, long-distance routes.
- The guide includes highly-rated routes that showcase the best of the region's landscape. More than 11 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore Ballygunaghan's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
47.2km
02:57
540m
540m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
riders
23.7km
01:26
90m
90m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
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2
riders
65.9km
04:33
1,040m
1,040m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
86.1km
05:06
810m
810m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
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Tips from the Community
A beautiful reservoir surrounded by forest including a beautiful castle
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A different way of crossing the river, simply from stone to stone
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Here it is a joy to cross the Schimna River, a wonderful change.
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The Perfectly kept motte and bailie is placed in a bend of the Lagan River with extensive views along the valley. It is the best preserved and most impressive example in Ulster of an Anglo-Norman motte and bailey castle.
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See if you can find your way to the peace bell in the centre of the maze. Castlewellan Peace Maze, is one of the world's largest permanent hedge mazes representing the puzzle that was to become a peaceful future for Northern Ireland. To encourage a sense of common ownership, the maze was planted by people from all over Northern Ireland, plus nearly 4,000 school children. Planted in 2000
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Drumkeeragh is a beautiful coniferous woodland located in the southern region of Northern Ireland. The forest is in a mountaineous area, creating an elevated position to enjoy far-reaching views toward the Mourne Mountains, coastline & surrounding lush counyside.
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Donard Park is a beautiful public space located at the foothills of the Mourne Mountains in Newcastle, Northern Ireland. The park boasts some wonderful views of the mountains, including up to Slieve Donard, which is the highest of them all. You can also discover woodland trails, a babbling brook and mini waterfalls.
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If you wish to take the detour, a short causeway will lead you to The Starting Battery, used by the Lough Neagh Sailing Club as the starting mark for their boat races.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of mountain biking terrain can I expect around Ballygunaghan?
The Ballygunaghan area offers a varied landscape for mountain biking, characterized by rolling hills, dense forests, and scenic lake areas. You'll find a mix of established forest paths and more challenging routes with significant elevation changes, providing access to diverse natural environments.
Are there mountain bike trails suitable for beginners in Ballygunaghan?
Yes, there is an easy mountain bike trail available. The Craigavon Balancing Lakes – Shortcut loop from Lurgan is a 23.7 km path that offers a gentler ride around lake areas with minimal elevation, perfect for those new to mountain biking or looking for a relaxed outing.
Are there any challenging mountain bike trails for experienced riders?
Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, Ballygunaghan offers difficult routes such as the Drumkeeragh Forest – Castlewellan Lake loop from Dromore Cathedral of Christ the Redeemer, which is 65.9 km long and features significant elevation through forest and past a lake. Another demanding option is the Donard Park Waterfall – Lackan Road loop from Banbridge, an 86.1 km route with substantial climbs.
Can I find mountain bike routes that feature waterfalls?
Yes, the Donard Park Waterfall – Lackan Road loop from Banbridge is a difficult 86.1 km mountain bike trail that specifically includes a waterfall, offering a scenic highlight during your ride.
Are there any circular mountain bike routes in the Ballygunaghan area?
Yes, several routes in the area are circular. Examples include the moderate Gosford Castle & Park loop from Banbridge, the easy Craigavon Balancing Lakes – Shortcut loop from Lurgan, and the difficult Drumkeeragh Forest – Castlewellan Lake loop from Dromore Cathedral of Christ the Redeemer. These loops allow you to start and finish at the same point.
What are some scenic points of interest or landmarks I can see while mountain biking?
The mountain bike trails around Ballygunaghan offer access to several scenic points. You can ride past the beautiful Craigavon Lakes or Lurgan Park Lake. Other notable landmarks include the historical Moyallan Pillbox and the natural monument of Lisnamintry Rath Entrance.
How many mountain bike trails are available in Ballygunaghan?
There are 4 mountain bike trails detailed in this guide for the Ballygunaghan area, offering a range of difficulties from easy to difficult.
What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about the trails in Ballygunaghan?
Mountain bikers who have explored the Ballygunaghan area often praise the diverse terrain, which includes rolling hills, dense forests, and scenic lake views. The variety of routes, from gentle lake loops to challenging forest climbs, is also frequently highlighted.
Are there any trails that pass through forest areas?
Yes, many of the trails traverse forest areas. For example, the Gosford Castle & Park loop from Banbridge features significant elevation gain through parkland and forest, and the Drumkeeragh Forest – Castlewellan Lake loop from Dromore Cathedral of Christ the Redeemer leads directly through Drumkeeragh Forest.
What is the longest mountain bike trail in this guide for Ballygunaghan?
The longest mountain bike trail featured in this guide is the Donard Park Waterfall – Lackan Road loop from Banbridge, which spans 86.1 km and is classified as difficult.
Are there any trails that offer views of lakes?
Yes, several trails provide beautiful lake views. The Craigavon Balancing Lakes – Shortcut loop from Lurgan offers a ride around lake areas, and the Drumkeeragh Forest – Castlewellan Lake loop from Dromore Cathedral of Christ the Redeemer passes by Castlewellan Lake.
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