The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Granard
4.7
(25)
202
hikers
11
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Granard are set within a landscape characterized by drumlin countryside, rolling hills, and serene woodlands. The region features numerous lakes, including Lough Gowna and Lough Kinale, which provide varied and scenic backdrops for outdoor activities. This terrain offers a mix of easy forest walks and more moderate hill climbs, making it suitable for diverse hiking experiences.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Granard
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Mullaghmeen Forest loop,…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
4.6
(11)
46
hikers
9.38km
02:40
220m
210m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(4)
26
hikers
5.69km
01:29
40m
40m
Hike the easy 3.5-mile Derrycassan Woods Trail in Ireland, enjoying lake views, woodlands, and historical ruins.
Sign up for free
1
hikers
6.60km
01:55
180m
180m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
5.04km
01:24
90m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.86km
00:44
10m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Granard
Tips from the Community
The Brí Leith walkway is a surfaced trail through woodland and across moorland. Look out for pine martin, sparrowhawk and hares. It's a great place to pick bilberry and admire the yellow flowers and coconut scent of the gorse.
0
0
Mullaghmeen Forest is the largest planted beech forest in Ireland. There are also Sitka spruce, Scots pine and Noble fir as well as an interesting native tree collection. There are several waymarked walking trails around the forest. A 1.4 km (0.85 mile) yellow route to the south. A 3.5 km (2 mile) red loop around the centre. A 4.4 km (3 mile) blue loop which crosses most of the forest, and an 8-km (5 mile) white loop which follows paths around the edge.
0
0
The North Longford Rebel Trail is a community-led, multi-user path which safely connects the villages of Drumlish, Monaduff, and Ballinamuck. Much of the trail runs close to but separate from the busy R198. The trail is either tarmac or fine gravel and suitable for many wheelchairs and pushchairs as well as bikes, walkers and runners.
0
0
A ringfort once stood here which dates back to between 500 and 1500AD. It is part of the rich history that makes up Derrycassan Woods and the ruins of its past there are here to discover.
2
0
There are lots of trails to explore in Derrycassan Woods and it is a particularly great place for hiking with children not only due to the flat and well maintained paths but also the playground at the entrance to the woods next to the gaelic football pitch. A mobile coffee van is often parked here too.
2
0
At the eastern edge of Lough Gowna in Derrycassan Woods you can get right up close to the water. It is a nice place to pause a while with views over to Inchmore Island / Inis Mór (Big Island). The ruins of a 6th century abbey can be found on the island and it was still used as a cemetery for locals until the early 20th century.
3
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Granard?
There are 7 family-friendly hiking trails around Granard, offering a mix of easy and moderate options suitable for various ages and abilities. You'll find 4 easy routes and 3 moderate routes to explore.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in Granard?
The Granard area features diverse terrain, including drumlin countryside, rolling hills, and serene woodlands. Many trails, like the ones in Mullaghmeen Forest, wind through dense trees, while others, such as the Derrycassan Woods Trail, offer views of lakes like Lough Gowna and pass by historical ruins.
Are there any easy, shorter walks suitable for families with young children or toddlers?
Yes, for families with young children, the Mullaghmeen Forest – Summit of Mullagmeen Hill loop from Mullaghmeen is an easy option, covering about 4.5 km. The Granard Greenway also offers a very accessible 2.1 km path with benches, perfect for a gentle stroll.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the family-friendly trails in Granard?
The trails around Granard are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.76 out of 5 stars from 20 ratings. Hikers often praise the quiet woodlands, well-maintained paths, and the scenic beauty of the drumlin countryside and lakes.
Are there any circular routes for families in the Granard area?
Yes, several routes are circular, making them convenient for families. For example, the Mullaghmeen Forest loop is a popular moderate circular trail spanning about 9.4 km through diverse woodlands.
Can we bring our dog on these family-friendly hikes?
Many forest and woodland trails in Ireland are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash and owners clean up after them. It's always best to check local signage at the trailhead for specific rules regarding dogs in Mullaghmeen Forest or Derrycassan Woods.
Are there any historical sites or landmarks to see along the trails?
Absolutely. The Derrycassan Woods Trail winds past historical ruins, adding an element of discovery to your walk. Additionally, the Granard Greenway offers scenic views of the significant historical site of the Granard Motte and Bailey.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in Granard?
Granard's trails are enjoyable year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Even in winter, the woodlands can be magical, though paths might be muddier. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Are there any trails with views of lakes or water features?
Yes, the Derrycassan Woods Trail provides lovely views of Lough Gowna. The region itself is dotted with lakes like Lough Gowna and Lough Kinale, offering tranquil waterscapes alongside the terrestrial trails.
Is there parking available at the trailheads for family walks?
Parking is generally available at popular trailheads such as Mullaghmeen Forest and Derrycassan Woods. For the Granard Greenway, there are accessible points within Granard town. It's advisable to arrive earlier during peak times to secure a spot.
What should we bring for a family hike in Granard?
For a comfortable family hike, we recommend bringing appropriate footwear, water, snacks, and weather-appropriate clothing as conditions can change. A small first-aid kit and a map or GPS device are also good to have, especially on longer routes like the Mullaghmeen Forest loop.
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Didn’t find what you were looking for?
Check out more Hikes throughout Granard below and find the perfect route in your destination.
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
