The best walks and hikes around Muldonagh
4.3
(21)
161
hikers
10
hikes
Hiking around Muldonagh offers a variety of trails within the picturesque Mid Ulster countryside. The region features diverse terrain, including forest walks, river paths, and routes with moderate elevation changes. Notable natural attractions like Ness Country Park, home to Northern Ireland's highest waterfall, contribute to the scenic landscape.
Best hiking trails around Muldonagh
- The most popular hiking route is Banagher Glen Forest Trail, an 8.2 miles (13.3 km) trail that takes 3 hours 44 minutes to complete, leading through a significant forest area.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Ness Country Park – Wooden Bridge in Forest loop from Ness Waterfall Highest Waterfall In Northern Ireland, a moderate 5.2 miles (8.4 km) path. This route explores Ness Country Park, featuring its notable waterfall and a wooden bridge.
- Local hikers also love the Wooden Bridge in Forest – Ness Country Park loop from River Ness, a 5.3 miles (8.5 km) trail leading through forest and along the River Ness, often completed in about 2 hours 19 minutes.
- Hiking around Muldonagh is defined by diverse forest trails, river valleys, and the natural features of Ness Country Park. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy paths to more moderate hikes.
- The routes in Muldonagh are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.3 stars from more than 20 reviews. More than 160 hikers have used komoot to explore Muldonagh's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
4.6
(9)
57
hikers
13.3km
03:45
280m
280m
Embark on the Banagher Glen Forest Trail, a moderate hike that spans 8.2 miles (13.3 km) with an elevation gain of 923 feet (281 metres). This route guides you through one of Ireland's oldest ancient oak woodlands, following the soothing Banagher Stream. You will eventually reach the impressive Altnaheglish Reservoir and Banagher Dam, offering panoramic views of the Sperrin Mountains from higher points. Expect to spend around 3 hours and 44 minutes exploring this diverse landscape. The trail features varied terrain, including surfaced roads and forest tracks, with some very steep sections leading to the dam. Sturdy footwear is highly recommended due to rocky and uneven paths you may encounter. While specific parking details are not provided, the trailhead is accessible for you to begin your adventure. This trail is notable for its rich natural environment, as it is a designated Special Area of Conservation. The steep glens are home to mature trees like oak and ash, along with an understory of rowan, hazel, and holly. You can also catch glimpses of Donegal in the distance from certain vantage points, adding to the scenic appeal of the area.
2
hikers
2.82km
00:45
30m
30m
Embark on the Learmount Forest Walk via Learmount Castle, an easy hike through varied woodland scenery in the foothills of the Sperrin Mountains. This route covers 1.8 miles (2.8 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 82 feet (25 metres), taking approximately 44 minutes to complete. You will follow the River Faughan, enjoying views of ancient trees and the intriguing ruins of Learmount Castle, an abandoned Tudor-Gothic mansion from 1830.
To begin your adventure, you can park your car conveniently at the Learmount Community Centre, which serves as the starting point for this circular route. While the trail is generally easy, be aware that some sections can be slippery and uneven, with exposed roots, narrow gates, stiles, and steps. The diverse terrain adds to the experience, but it's wise to wear appropriate footwear.
The forest itself is a tranquil haven, home to over 15 different tree species, some more than a century old. As you hike along the River Faughan, which originates on Sawel Mountain, keep an eye out for diverse wildlife such as otter prints, dippers, herons, grey wagtails, and even kingfishers. The trail's location on the northern face of the Sperrin Mountains provides a unique and scenic backdrop for your walk.
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4.8
(4)
30
hikers
8.48km
02:20
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
26
hikers
3.57km
00:58
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(4)
23
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Muldonagh
Tips from the Community
Enjoy some peace and serenity as you jog along the shores of the beautiful and calm Altnaheglish Reservoir, situated in the Sperring Area of Natural Beauty. The reservoir is located in the Banagher Forest, which is home to some of the oldest ancient oak woodlands in Ireland. It's a true place of beauty!
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Learmount Wood is located at the foothills of the northern face of the Sperrins in Northern Ireland. The forest features a wonderful diversity of tree species, including some that have been there for over 100 years. It's a beautiful place for a stroll, featuring a stream and an abandoned mansion dating back to the 1830s.
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Learmount Castle is a stunning Tudor-Gothic mansion that was built in the 1830s by Henry Barré Beresford. The house is now abandoned, but you can still use your imagination to picture its grandeur when it was in all its glory.
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Enjoy tremendous views across Altnaheglish Reservoir from the Banagher Dam wall.
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Enjoy some peace and serenity as you walk along the shores of the beautiful and calm Altnaheglish Reservoir, situated in the Sperring Area of Natural Beauty. The reservoir is located in the Banagher Forest, which is home to some of the oldest ancient oak woodlands in Ireland. It's a true place of beauty!
2
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Tudor-Gothic house, built in 1830 by Henry Barré Beresford. Situated in Learmont Park there are some good gravel and mixed terrain tracks to explore.
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Banagher Dam was built in the 1930's, is 42m high and spans a gap of 110m. It is NI's highest dam with a capacity of 2270 million litres of water! On the banks of the reservoir sits some of Irelands most ancient oak woodland with plenty of footpaths to explore it.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of hiking trails can I expect around Muldonagh?
Muldonagh offers a diverse range of hiking trails, from easy paths to more moderate routes. You'll find forest walks, river paths, and trails with varying elevation changes, all set within the picturesque Mid Ulster countryside. The area is known for its accessible paths, making it suitable for different skill levels.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks near Muldonagh?
Yes, Muldonagh has several easy, family-friendly options. For instance, the Learmount Forest Walk via Learmount Castle — Sperrins is an easy 2.8 km trail. Another great choice is the Ness Country Park loop from River Ness, which is an easy 3.5 km path, perfect for a shorter outing.
What natural attractions or landmarks can I see while hiking in Muldonagh?
Muldonagh's hiking trails offer access to several notable natural features and landmarks. Ness Country Park is a major highlight, home to Northern Ireland's highest waterfall. You might also encounter the scenic Altnaheglish Reservoir and the historic Learmount Castle. The Sperrin Road also offers scenic views within the wider Sperrin Mountains area.
Are there any circular walking routes available?
Yes, Muldonagh features several circular walking routes. A popular option is the Wooden Bridge in Forest – Ness Country Park loop from River Ness, which is a moderate 8.5 km trail. Another is the Ness Country Park – Wooden Bridge in Forest loop from Ness Waterfall Highest Waterfall In Northern Ireland, a moderate 8.4 km route that explores the park's key features.
How many hiking trails are there in the Muldonagh area?
There are 10 hiking trails available around Muldonagh on komoot. These include a mix of easy and moderate routes, ensuring options for various preferences and fitness levels.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Muldonagh?
The trails in Muldonagh are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 20 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse forest trails, the scenic river valleys, and the natural beauty of Ness Country Park, particularly its impressive waterfall.
Is there parking available for Muldonagh hiking trails?
While specific parking details for each trailhead are best checked on individual route pages, areas like Ness Country Park, a prominent hiking destination near Muldonagh, typically offer designated parking facilities for visitors accessing its trails and attractions.
Are there any trails that feature waterfalls?
Yes, Ness Country Park, located near Muldonagh, is home to Northern Ireland's highest waterfall. Trails like the Ness Country Park – Wooden Bridge in Forest loop from Ness Waterfall Highest Waterfall In Northern Ireland specifically highlight this impressive natural feature.
What is the best time of year to hike in Muldonagh?
Muldonagh offers enjoyable hiking throughout much of the year due to its diverse terrain. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer is ideal for longer days. Even in winter, many accessible paths can be enjoyed, though conditions should always be checked beforehand.
Are there any longer, more challenging hikes in the Muldonagh area?
For those seeking a longer, more challenging experience, the Banagher Glen Forest Trail is a moderate 13.3 km route that takes approximately 3 hours 44 minutes to complete. It leads through a significant forest area with moderate elevation changes.
Where can I find more information about walking trails in the wider Mid Ulster region?
For more information on walking and hiking trails beyond Muldonagh, within the broader Mid Ulster region, you can visit the official tourism website: visitmidulster.com.
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