The best walks and hikes around Clady

This guide focuses on the area around Clady in County Londonderry, which provides access to the Antrim Coast and Glens Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. If you are looking for hikes near Clady in County Tyrone, you would be exploring the Sperrin Mountains, a different but equally beautiful region.

Yes, the area has several excellent circular routes. For a challenging day out with rewarding views, consider the Black Hill loop from Glenarm. This difficult 18 km trail involves significant climbs but offers fantastic panoramas over the surrounding hills and coast.

For a great day out with the family, the Carnfunnock Country Park loop — Antrim Coast & Glens is an excellent choice. It's a short, easy walk of under 3 km within a country park that has plenty of other activities to keep everyone entertained.

Many trails in the region are suitable for walking with a dog, but it's important to check the rules for specific parks. For instance, Drumboe Woods is a popular spot for dog walkers. Always keep your dog under control, especially near farmland with livestock, and be prepared to keep them on a lead.

Yes, for a stunning waterfall, head to Ness Country Park near Clady, County Londonderry. The park features over 7 km of woodland and riverside walks, with the highlight being the impressive Ess-na-Crub Waterfall, the highest in the county.

The weather in Northern Ireland can change quickly, so layering is key. Always wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots. Pack waterproof trousers and a jacket, even if the day starts sunny. A hat and gloves are also recommended, especially for higher-elevation routes in the Antrim Glens.

If you're looking for a demanding hike, the Black Hill – Glenarm Castle loop from Carncastle is a great option. This 20 km route is rated as difficult and includes over 560 meters of ascent, making it a proper challenge for experienced hikers.

The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community, with over 200 hikers exploring the area. Reviewers often praise the mix of scenery, from peaceful woodlands in places like Glenarm Forest to the expansive coastal views from the hillsides.

Absolutely. The Glenarm Forest loop — Antrim Coast & Glens is perfect for beginners. It's a pleasant walk of less than 5 km on well-defined woodland tracks with only gentle climbs, making it accessible for all fitness levels.

You can expect a variety of terrain. Many routes follow well-maintained paths through forest parks like Gortin Glen or along riverbanks. Other hikes, particularly those in the Antrim Glens, involve ascents over open, sometimes boggy, hillsides on less-defined tracks.

The Sperrin Mountains, near Clady in County Tyrone, are an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with numerous trails. For detailed information on routes like the Craignamaddy Circuit or Carntogher Way, you can find resources on the Visit Mid Ulster website.

Most established forest parks and country parks, such as Carnfunnock Country Park and Gortin Glen Forest Park, have dedicated car parks. For more remote hillside routes, parking may be limited to small lay-bys on country roads, so it's best to arrive early.