The best walks and hikes around Carnamoney

The Carnamoney area offers a diverse range of hiking trails, characterized by dense forests like Glenshane Forest and Moydamlaght Forest, rolling hills that are part of the Sperrins, and open moorland. You'll find woodland paths, elevated sections with expansive views, and routes suitable for various ability levels.

Yes, Carnamoney has several easy routes. For a gentle walk, consider the Glenshane Forest loop from Roe, which is about 4.3 miles (6.9 km) and features an elevation gain of around 85 meters, making it a pleasant option for a relaxed outing.

For a more extended hike, the Crockbrack Way is a great choice. This trail spans 7.3 miles (11.8 km) and leads through rolling hills, offering expansive views with a significant elevation gain of almost 480 meters. It typically takes around 3 hours 44 minutes to complete.

Yes, many trails in Carnamoney are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Glenshane Forest – Glenshane Pass loop from Sheskin Burn, which is a moderate 5.7-mile (9.1 km) route through the forest.

While hiking in the region, you can explore natural attractions such as Altkeeran Waterfall. Other points of interest include Altnaheglish Reservoir and the expansive Banagher Forest.

The hiking trails around Carnamoney are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 stars from over 40 reviews. Hikers often praise the quiet woodlands, varied terrain, and the expansive views offered from elevated sections, particularly within the Sperrins.

Many trails in Carnamoney are suitable for families, especially the shorter, easier loops through the forests. These paths often have moderate elevations and well-defined tracks, providing a pleasant experience for children. Always check the specific route details for distance and elevation to ensure it matches your family's ability.

Generally, dogs are welcome on many of the hiking trails in Carnamoney, particularly in forest areas like Glenshane Forest and Moydamlaght Forest. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially when passing through livestock areas or nature reserves, and to check local signage for any specific restrictions.

Many popular trailheads and forest entrances in the Carnamoney area, such as those for Glenshane Forest and Moydamlaght Forest, offer designated parking facilities. It's advisable to check the starting point of your chosen route for specific parking information.

Hiking in Carnamoney is enjoyable throughout the year. Spring brings blooming flora, while summer offers longer daylight hours and generally milder weather. Autumn showcases beautiful fall colors in the forests. Even winter can be rewarding for a crisp walk, though some paths might be muddy or require appropriate footwear due to colder conditions.

While the immediate trailheads are often set in natural, rural environments, there are local villages and towns within a short driving distance of Carnamoney that offer pubs and eateries where you can refuel after your hike. It's a good idea to plan your post-hike refreshments in advance.

Among the listed routes, the Crockbrack Way presents one of the more challenging experiences due to its length of 7.3 miles (11.8 km) and significant elevation gain of nearly 480 meters, leading through rolling hills and open terrain.