The best walks and hikes around Magherana
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575
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Hiking around Magherana offers access to a network of trails primarily characterized by parklands and lake-side paths. The terrain is generally flat, with minimal elevation changes, making it suitable for accessible walks. The region features several well-maintained green spaces and bodies of water, providing opportunities for leisurely outdoor activity.
Best hiking trails around Magherana
- The most popular hiking route is Craigavon Balancing Lakes loop from Craigavon, a 3.6 miles (5.8 km) trail that takes 1 hour 29 minutes to…
Last updated: May 15, 2026
85
hikers
3.70km
00:56
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
73
hikers
5.36km
01:22
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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85
hikers
5.11km
01:18
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
50
hikers
4.73km
01:13
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
13
hikers
3.25km
00:50
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The paths are wide and perfect for families, as there are no cars to disturb you. As you glide along the car-free cycling and hiking trails, you can enjoy the view of the water - especially when the sky is cloudy, the lake has a very special atmosphere, almost mystical. The route is mostly asphalt, but there are also some gravel sections that provide some variety. These single-track paths add a certain challenge to the route without being really demanding. Ideal if you prefer to take it easy, but still don't want to just walk on smooth asphalt. If you want to take a break, the lake offers many corners to catch your breath and have a picnic. There is enough space on the banks to rest a bit and enjoy the surroundings to the fullest.
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The waterwheel at Craigavon Lakes is a historical landmark. It was purchased by the council in the 70s from the south of the Province and refurbished to provide energy to the local people. The wheel never got into full swing because of the lack of waterflow, however, in recent years the wheel has been seen turning for the first time!
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Craigavon Balancing Lakes, referred locally as 'The Lakes' are a set of man-made lakes built in the 1970s to control flooding. The route around the lakes is entirely flat and follows a mixture of paved and gravel paths close to the shoreline, which creates some wonderful water views as you jog along.
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A pretty lake with a lovely path for cycling / walking around. The lake is also popular with anglers.
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Similarly to a reservoir, these balancing lakes function as a water store. However, instead of storing the water for the purposes of consumption it is utilised to temporarily store flood waters. As the surrounding areas become more built up with hard surfaces, less rain excess water is stored by soil resulting in it routing quicker into the rivers. These balancing lakes help by reducing the volume of rain water reaching the rivers, which prevents flooding. And more importantly for cyclists it has the great byproduct of providing a pretty feature for MTB trails to be built around!
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Craigavon Lakes with family friendly, traffic free, cycle and walking paths and even some single-track gravel paths.
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Test your pumping, cornering and jumping skills on this short little pump track
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on hiking trails around Magherana?
Hiking around Magherana primarily features parklands and lake-side paths. The terrain is generally flat, with minimal elevation changes, making it suitable for accessible walks. You'll find well-maintained green spaces and bodies of water, perfect for leisurely outdoor activity.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or casual walkers in Magherana?
Yes, Magherana is well-suited for easy walks. Out of 26 available routes, 21 are classified as easy. An example is the Craigavon Lakes – Craigavon Balancing Lakes loop from Craigavon, an easy 3.7 km path that offers a shorter circuit around the lake area.
Are there any challenging hiking routes around Magherana?
While Magherana is known for its generally flat and accessible trails, there are a few routes that offer a slightly more moderate challenge. Out of 26 routes, 5 are classified as moderate. However, there are no routes classified as difficult in this immediate area.
What are some popular circular walks in Magherana?
Many of the trails in Magherana are circular, offering convenient loops. Popular options include the Craigavon Balancing Lakes loop from Craigavon, a 5.8 km trail, and the Pavilion in the Park loop from Lurgan, which is 5.4 km through parkland.
What are the average durations for hikes in Magherana?
The duration of hikes in Magherana varies depending on the route and your pace. For example, the Craigavon Balancing Lakes loop from Craigavon typically takes around 1 hour 29 minutes, while the shorter Craigavon Lakes – Craigavon Balancing Lakes loop from Craigavon can be completed in about 1 hour.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the hiking trails in Magherana?
The trails in Magherana offer views of several natural features and landmarks. You can explore the Craigavon Lakes and Lurgan Park Lake. Other points of interest include the Wave Sculptures Overlooking Lough Neagh and the Directional Sign at the Confluence of the Upper Bann River and Newry Canal.
Are there any historical sites or cultural attractions near the hiking routes?
Yes, you can find some historical and cultural attractions nearby. These include the Moyallan Pillbox, a historical site, and the Moneypenny's Lock and Canal Museum, offering insight into the region's heritage.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Magherana?
The hiking routes in Magherana are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.3 stars from over 20 reviews. Hikers often praise the accessible paths and scenic lake and parkland environments.
Is Magherana a good destination for family-friendly walks?
Yes, Magherana is an excellent destination for family-friendly walks due to its generally flat terrain and accessible parkland and lakeside paths. The minimal elevation changes make it suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
Are the hiking trails in Magherana dog-friendly?
While specific regulations for each trail may vary, many parkland and lakeside areas in Magherana are generally dog-friendly, especially if dogs are kept on a leash. It's always recommended to check local signage or specific route details for any restrictions before heading out with your dog.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Magherana?
Magherana's parkland and lakeside trails are enjoyable year-round. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities, while autumn provides beautiful foliage. Even in winter, the generally flat and well-maintained paths can be suitable for walks, though appropriate gear is always recommended.
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