Easy hikes and walks around Altnahinch Resevoir

There are several easy hiking trails around Altnahinch Reservoir and the surrounding Slieveanorra Forest. Our guide features 4 easy routes, with a total of 11 routes of varying difficulty in the area.

Yes, the area offers easy circular options. For instance, the Hiking loop from Slieveanorra is an easy 3.5 km circular trail. Additionally, there are plans to extend a raised boardwalk around the southern and eastern banks of the reservoir to create a fully circular and accessible walking route.

The easy trails around Altnahinch Reservoir offer a diverse mix of landscapes. You'll find open peaty moorland contrasting with the extensive conifer expanse of Slieveanorra Forest. The River Bush flows through the area, and trails often feature tree-lined gravel roads and open hillsides.

Yes, many of the easy trails are well-suited for families. Routes like the Hiking loop from Parkmore, an easy 5.9 km path, wind through varied terrain that can be enjoyable for all ages. The generally gentle gradients make them accessible for family outings.

Generally, dogs are welcome on the trails around Altnahinch Reservoir and in Slieveanorra Forest. However, it's always advisable to keep dogs on a leash, especially in areas with livestock or wildlife, and to clean up after them to preserve the natural environment for everyone.

While hiking, you'll encounter the reservoir itself, surrounded by peaty moorland. The trails within Slieveanorra Forest offer views of the vast conifer expanse. On a clear day, ascending even gentle inclines can reward you with panoramic views that may extend to Knocklayd, Rathlin Island, and even the Scottish coast.

While Altnahinch Reservoir itself doesn't feature waterfalls directly on its easy trails, the nearby Glenariff Forest Park, known as the 'Queen of the Glens,' is a short distance away and boasts stunning waterfalls like Inver River Waterfall and Ess-na-Laragh Waterfall. You can explore a route like the Waterfall Trail via Rainbow Trail in Glenariff Forest Park.

The best time to visit for easy hiking is generally during the drier months, from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During these periods, the weather is milder, and the ground conditions are typically more stable, especially in areas of peatbog. Be aware that after heavy rainfall, some areas can be soft.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 160 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, the tranquility of the forest, and the accessible nature of many trails, making it a rewarding experience for easy hikes.

Yes, parking is generally available at common starting points for trails around Altnahinch Reservoir and within Slieveanorra Forest. Specific parking details can often be found on individual route descriptions or local signage.

Beyond the immediate reservoir area, you can find other easy options such as the View of Glenariff Valley loop from Cargan, which is an easy 4.2 km trail offering different perspectives of the wider region.