The best walks and hikes around Tildarg

Yes, the region is well-suited for loop trails. A great option is the Killylane Reservoir & Ballyboley Forest loop, which combines a peaceful walk around the reservoir with a scenic path through the adjacent woodland. It's a moderate walk of about 8.7 km.

The area around Killylane Reservoir and Ballyboley Forest offers several gentler paths perfect for a family outing. These trails are generally on flatter terrain through sheltered woodlands. For a slightly more challenging but rewarding family adventure, the trails at Rea's Wood along Lough Neagh are also highly regarded by locals.

Many trails in the area, particularly in Ballyboley Forest and around Killylane Reservoir, are suitable for walking with dogs. However, you may encounter livestock in open moorland areas, so it's essential to keep your dog on a lead. Always be prepared to clean up after your pet to help keep the trails beautiful.

The hike to the summit of Slemish Mountain is short but strenuous. The trail is just over a mile long but involves a steep, rocky scramble to reach the top. While challenging, the effort is rewarded with fantastic 360-degree views of the Antrim countryside.

There are car parks available for visitors to Ballyboley Forest and Killylane Reservoir, which serve as the main starting points for many popular hikes. For other popular hiking spots in the wider area, like Divis and the Black Mountain, it's recommended to arrive early as the car parks can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.

The trails around Tildarg primarily consist of well-maintained forest paths through Ballyboley Forest and gravel tracks around Killylane Reservoir. You'll experience some moderate inclines and declines, but there are no major mountain ascents on the main routes. The ground can be muddy in places, especially after rain, so waterproof footwear is recommended.

For a more substantial hike, consider the Forest Path loop from Burnside. At over 11 km, this moderate route involves more elevation gain as it navigates through the woodland, offering a good challenge for regular hikers.

The hikes offer a mix of serene, enclosed woodland scenery within Ballyboley Forest and open, tranquil views across Killylane Reservoir on the surrounding moorland. For panoramic vistas, a trip to nearby Slemish Mountain or the highly-rated Divis and the Black Mountain will provide sweeping views over the countryside and Belfast.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the peaceful atmosphere of the reservoir walks and the well-defined paths through the forest, making it a reliable choice for a great day outdoors.

The immediate trailheads are focused on nature, so there are no pubs or cafes directly on the routes. For refreshments, you would need to drive to one of the nearby towns or villages, such as Ballynure or Ballymena, where you can find traditional pubs and cafes to relax in after your walk.

If you're looking for a different perspective on the forest, the Ballyboley Forest loop from Ballynure is an excellent choice. This 7.6 km trail focuses more on the woodland sections and is a favorite among local enthusiasts.

Yes, Slemish Mountain is famously associated with Saint Patrick, who is said to have worked there as a shepherd. This makes the hike a popular pilgrimage, especially on Saint Patrick's Day, adding a layer of rich history to the stunning natural scenery.