Hilden to the Black Mountain loop — Lagan Valley

Embark on a challenging touring bicycle adventure with the Hilden to the Black Mountain loop, a difficult 24.5-mile (39.4 km) route that takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes to complete. You will gain 1563 feet (477 metres) in elevation as you cycle through peaceful riverbank environments, extensive woodlands, and varied meadows. The trail offers diverse scenery, winding alongside the River Lagan before ascending towards Black Mountain, where you can enjoy elevated views across the valley.

This loop is rated as a hard bike ride, requiring very good fitness due to its significant ascents, especially the climb to Black Mountain. While the route features mostly paved surfaces, making it generally suitable for touring bikes, be prepared for some unpaved segments where you might need to push your bike. Plan your ride to account for these challenging sections.

The Hilden to Black Mountain loop is a popular and highly-rated touring cycling route within the Lagan Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It forms part of the larger Lagan and Lough National Cycle Network Route 9, providing a traffic-free link. As you ride, you will pass through the Lagan Valley Regional Park, known for its rich flora and fauna, and historical sites like the Giant's Ring archaeological site.