The best walks and hikes around Maloon

Yes, the region is well-suited for families and beginners. A great option is the Drum Manor Forest Park loop, which is a gentle 3.3-mile (5.4 km) trail through woodland with a lake and historic ruins. It's mostly flat and offers a relaxed walk for all ages.

For expansive views of the surrounding landscape, the Slieve Gallion NE Top Summit loop from Moneymore is your best bet. This moderate hike involves a steady climb to the summit of Slieve Gallion, rewarding you with panoramic vistas across the Sperrin Mountains.

Many of the forest parks and open hill areas near Maloon are suitable for hiking with dogs, provided they are kept under control or on a lead, especially near livestock. Trails in places like Drum Manor Forest Park are popular with dog walkers. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.

Yes, most of the recommended trails in the area are loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same place without retracing your steps. The Lough Fea loop — Sperrins is a popular circular walk around a scenic lake, and the Drum Manor House Ruins – Drum Manor House Ruins loop from Drum Manor Forest Park is another great option.

Most trailheads, such as those at Drum Manor Forest Park and Lough Fea, are best accessed by car. These locations typically have dedicated car parks. For example, Drum Manor Forest Park has ample parking available for visitors. Public transport options can be limited in these rural areas, so driving is the most reliable way to reach the start of your hike.

For a day hike, you should bring waterproof clothing as the weather in Northern Ireland can change quickly. Sturdy walking shoes or boots are essential, especially for hill climbs like Slieve Gallion. Also, pack water, snacks, a fully charged phone, and a map of your route.

You can hike around Maloon year-round, but the best conditions are typically from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During this time, the weather is milder, daylight hours are longer, and the trails are generally drier. The forests are particularly beautiful in the autumn.

While the immediate trails in this guide focus on forests and hills, the broader region has some beautiful waterfalls. A short drive away, you can visit places like Clamp Hole Waterfall in the Slieve Bloom Mountains, which is a popular spot with a small cascade and a place for a paddle.

The trails around Maloon are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths in the forest parks, the serene atmosphere around Lough Fea, and the rewarding views from the hilltops.

The hikes in this guide are mostly easy to moderate. For a more strenuous challenge, you can explore the wider Sperrin Mountains, which offer more rugged terrain and longer routes. Davagh Forest, for instance, provides more demanding trails for those seeking a tougher adventure.

Yes. If you're looking for a longer walk, the Derryloran Old Church loop from Cookstown is a great choice. At nearly 7 miles (11 km), it offers a more extended exploration of the countryside and local heritage sites.

Besides the specific routes in this guide, the region offers several highly-regarded hiking areas. The Slieve Bloom Mountains are a vast and popular destination for hiking and biking. For a well-loved local walk with excellent signage, the 12 O'Clock Hills are a fantastic option. The J B Malone Memorial along the Wicklow Way also marks a beautiful spot in the mountains, popular with weekend walkers.