The best running trails around Highmoor

Highmoor offers a wide selection of running routes, with over 45 trails to explore, catering to various preferences and fitness levels.

Yes, Highmoor has several routes suitable for beginners or those looking for an easier run. There are 7 easy routes and 26 moderate routes. For a relatively flat and moderate option, consider the Running loop from Eglinton, which is 5.6 km long.

The jogging paths in Highmoor offer a diverse range of terrain, from urban river paths and tranquil lake loops to more challenging forest trails. You'll find routes with gentle hills and others that are relatively flat, providing varied experiences for runners.

Many of Highmoor's running routes are designed as loops, offering convenient circular paths. For example, the Gransha Lake loop from Drumahoe is a popular 11.2 km circular trail through a lakeside landscape.

Several routes in Highmoor pass by notable landmarks. For instance, the Derry City Walls – Peace Bridge loop from Drumahoe includes historical city landmarks like the Guildhall Derry–Londonderry and the iconic Peace Bridge. You might also encounter other points of interest like Ebrington Square.

The running routes in Highmoor are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.7 stars from over 9 reviews. Runners often praise the varied terrain, from urban river paths to secluded natural settings, and the opportunity to see city views and historical landmarks.

Yes, routes that follow the river and pass through urban areas often provide excellent viewpoints. The Peace Bridge – Guildhall Derry–Londonderry loop from Maydown offers scenic views of the city and river, including the Peace Bridge itself, which is a popular viewpoint.

While many routes are well-known, exploring the diverse network can lead to discovering less-trafficked paths. The region's mix of forest trails and lake loops, such as the Loughermore – Loughermore Forest loop from Loughermore River, might offer a more secluded experience away from the main urban paths.

Highmoor's running routes can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and autumn often offer the most pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is also popular, especially for early morning or late evening runs to avoid the midday heat. Winter running is possible, but be prepared for potentially wet or icy conditions on some trails.

While specific 'family-friendly' designations aren't always explicit, routes with easier difficulty grades and shorter distances are generally more suitable. The 7 easy routes available in Highmoor would be a good starting point for families looking for a less strenuous run.

Given the proximity of many routes to urban centers like Derry–Londonderry, public transport options are likely available to reach starting points. For routes originating from areas like Maydown or Drumahoe, local bus services would be the primary mode of public transport. It's advisable to check local transport schedules for specific route access.

Routes that traverse urban areas, particularly those in and around Derry–Londonderry, are more likely to have cafes or refreshment stops nearby. The Peace Bridge – Guildhall Derry–Londonderry loop from Maydown and the Derry City Walls – Peace Bridge loop from Drumahoe, which explore the city, would offer the best opportunities to find cafes along or near the trail.