The best walks and hikes around Slaghtaverty
4.8
(35)
118
hikers
9
hikes
Hikes around Slaghtaverty explore a landscape of rolling hills, heather-covered moorland, and sections of forest. The area includes routes that ascend Carntogher Mountain, which stands at 464 meters, providing expansive views over the surrounding countryside. The terrain is a mix of single-track roads, boggy mountain paths, and maintained forest trails.
Best hiking trails around Slaghtaverty
- The most popular hiking route is the Carntogher Way via Altkeeran Waterfall β Sperrins, a 6.1 mile (9.8 km) trail that takes around 2β¦
Last updated: June 25, 2026
4.4
(9)
20
hikers
9.82km
02:51
260m
260m
Embark on the Carntogher Way, a moderate hike spanning 6.1 miles (9.8 km) with an elevation gain of 868 feet (265 metres), typically completed in about 2 hours and 51β¦
4.4
(5)
18
hikers
6.11km
01:38
70m
70m
Explore the easy 3.8-mile Garvagh Forest loop, gaining 241 feet in 1 hour 38 minutes, featuring the unique Garvagh Pyramid.
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5.0
(1)
19
hikers
5.43km
01:27
60m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(9)
14
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
8
hikers
5.77km
01:43
190m
190m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Slaghtaverty
Tips from the Community
The climb up Carntogher is a bit of a leg burner, but the views at the top make it all worthwhile. From the peak, you'll be afforded views across Lough Foyle to Errigal and Muckish in Donegal, Sawel and the high Sperrins, and south-east to The Mournes and Slieve Gullion.
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If you walk 100m slightly off the path south at this waypoint, you'll reach the beautiful little Altkeeran Waterfall. The waterfall is situated nearby to the spring Source Of The Grillagh and the peak Carntogher.
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Here lies a beautiful weaved structure of a pair of deer, one of the many fun and fascinating discoveries of the Garvagh Forest.
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Garvagh Forest is filled with mysterious features. This one is a wood-carving of a rabbit and is situated on the western side of the park. Discovering the others is quite an adventure and makes a great day out for families.
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It's quite an unusual experience stumbling into a pyramid in the middle of an Irish forest! This pyramid was built in the 19th century as a burial chamber for Lord Garvagh and is a lovelly feature to the forest today.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are the hiking trails in Slaghtaverty difficult?
Most trails in the area are considered easy to moderate. You'll find a mix of gentle forest paths and more challenging ascents on boggy mountain terrain. For example, the Garvagh Forest loop is an easy walk with minimal elevation, while routes up Carntogher Mountain are more moderate.
Are there any family-friendly walks near Slaghtaverty?
Yes, the Drumnaph Nature Reserve is an excellent choice for families. It offers a network of graded trails through ancient woodland and past a stone circle. The Drumnaph Forest loop from Tirkane is a relatively short and flat walk, making it suitable for a wide range of ages and abilities.
Can I bring my dog on the trails?
Dogs are welcome on many trails, but they should be kept on a lead, especially on Carntogher Mountain where livestock may be grazing. The woodland paths in places like Garvagh Forest are great for a walk with your dog. Always be prepared to clean up after your pet.
What is the story behind the 'Giant's Grave' or Slaghtaverty Dolmen?
The Slaghtaverty Dolmen is an ancient burial tomb linked to the legend of Abhartach, a tyrannical dwarf chieftain. Local folklore says that after being slain, he rose from his grave demanding blood, leading some to believe this tale inspired Bram Stoker's *Dracula*. The dolmen is on private land but can be seen from the road.
Are there any circular walks available?
Many of the best walks in the area are looped trails, allowing you to start and end in the same place without retracing your steps. The Carntogher Way via Altkeeran Waterfall β Sperrins is a popular circular route that takes you up into the hills and back.
Where can I find a waterfall on a hike?
The Altkeeran Waterfall is a lovely feature you can visit on your hike. The Altkeeran Waterfall loop from Tirkane is a moderate walk that incorporates a visit to the falls as part of a scenic circuit.
What kind of historical sites can I see while hiking?
The trails around Slaghtaverty are rich with history. Besides the famous Slaghtaverty Dolmen, you can discover an ancient rath (earthwork) and a stone circle within Drumnaph Nature Reserve. On the slopes of Carntogher Mountain, you'll pass abandoned farmhouses and an 'Emigrant's Cairn', offering glimpses into the area's past.
Where is a good place to park for a hike?
For hikes in Drumnaph Nature Reserve or up Carntogher Mountain, the An Carn Centre is a convenient starting point with parking facilities. For walks in Garvagh Forest, there is a dedicated car park at the trailhead. Popular spots can fill up, so arriving earlier in the day is a good idea.
What do other hikers think of the trails around Slaghtaverty?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the mix of mystical folklore, quiet woodland paths, and the expansive views from the top of Carntogher Mountain.
Are there any cafes or pubs nearby for after a hike?
The An Carn Centre, which serves as a hub for many local trails, has a cafΓ© on-site, making it a perfect spot to relax after your walk. For a pub, you would need to drive to one of the nearby towns like Maghera or Garvagh.
What are some other popular places for hiking in the wider region?
If you're exploring more of Northern Ireland, there are several highly-regarded hiking areas.
Davagh Forest Trails are a local favorite, known for excellent walking paths and the OM Dark Sky Park. Divis and the Black Mountain, near Belfast, offers fantastic panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape. For a different experience, Rea's Wood provides a beautiful forest trail along the shore of Lough Neagh.
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