5.0
(1)
85
riders
Mountain biking around Brackenagh East Upper offers access to the diverse terrain of the Mourne Mountains, characterized by rugged peaks and varied landscapes. The region features a mix of challenging climbs and forest paths, providing a range of experiences for mountain bikers. While specific Brackenagh East Upper mountain biking trails are integrated into the broader area, the surrounding Mourne Mountains and Tollymore Forest Park offer notable features for outdoor activities.
Last updated: October 14, 2026
5.0
(1)
28
riders
31.9km
02:40
490m
490m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
34
riders
12.0km
01:18
380m
380m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

15
riders
12.7km
01:09
300m
300m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
10.4km
01:03
290m
290m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
44.0km
02:44
440m
440m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
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FACEBOOK (History of Newcastle, Co. Down, Hore's Bridge, 2026-08-15): https://www.facebook.com/HistoryofNewcastleCo.Down/photos/hores-bridge-over-the-spinkwee-river-sw-tollymore-was-built-in-1824-the-date-is-/754755631362196/ “… Hore's Bridge over the Spinkwee River, SW Tollymore, was built in 1824. …”
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The stepping stones are currently fenced off. Please use the nearby bridges to cross the Shimna River.
2
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Wikipedia (Tollymore Forest Park, 2026-08-14): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tollymore_Forest_Park “... Parnell Bridge, named in recognition of Sir John Parnell who visited Tollymore in the late 18th century, was constructed in 1842. It was the last stone bridge to be built in Tollymore. …”
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Wikipedia (Tollymore Forest Park, 2026-08-14): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tollymore_Forest_Park “... The Hermitage is a small stone shelter designed by James Hamilton (2nd Earl of Clanbrassil) in the 1770s in memory to his friend the John Montagu, Marquess of Monthermer. It is built into the side of the gorge above the river and was used as a place for ladies to shelter while the men fished. There is an inscription in Greek within the Hermitage which translates as "Clanbrassil, to his very dear friend Monthermer 1770". …”
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Wikipedia (Tollymore Forest Park, 2026-08-14): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tollymore_Forest_Park “... Horn Bridge crosses a small culverted burn (stream) and is crossed by a gravel road. The burn below the bridge is covered with a board walk connected to a path. It was built c.1770 by either the 1st or 2nd Earl. ...”
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The park has no entry fee, you only have to pay 5 £ for parking.
1
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Easy route no special gear required. Very scenic
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The small, historic port provides a charming setting with views of the Mourne Mountains and the sea. The promenade is well maintained and is great for a relaxing cruise along the coast. However, it can get quite busy in good weather and at weekends, which can slow down the journey. A highlight is the proximity to Murlough National Nature Reserve, which is just a few kilometers away and is ideal for further exploration. Note, however, that some sections of the promenade can be slippery when wet, so care must be taken.
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There are 5 mountain bike trails documented on komoot around Brackenagh East Upper, offering a range of experiences from easier loops to more challenging climbs through the Mourne Mountains.
Yes, there are a couple of easier options. The Thomas's Quarry and Waterfall – Newcastle Harbour loop from Newcastle is an easy 12.7 km trail that takes you through coastal and quarry landscapes. Another easy route is the Stepping Stones at Mourne AONB – Parnell's Bridge loop from Bryansford, which is 10.5 km long.
For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the Donard Park Waterfall – Lackan Road loop from Newcastle is a difficult 43.7 km route with significant elevation changes. Another moderate but substantial option is the Bannanstown Road Climb – Tollymore Forest Park loop from Bryansford, covering 32.1 km with over 500 meters of ascent.
Yes, you can find routes that pass by waterfalls. The Thomas's Quarry and Waterfall – Newcastle Harbour loop from Newcastle includes a waterfall along its path. Additionally, the difficult Donard Park Waterfall – Lackan Road loop from Newcastle also features a waterfall in Donard Park.
The region offers diverse landscapes, from rugged peaks and dramatic vistas of the Mourne Mountains to lush forest paths within areas like Tollymore Forest Park. You'll also encounter coastal views, quarry landscapes, and scenic areas within the Mourne Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
All the mountain bike routes listed for Brackenagh East Upper are circular loops. Examples include the Bannanstown Road Climb – Tollymore Forest Park loop from Bryansford and the Stepping Stones at Mourne AONB – Parnell's Bridge loop from Bryansford.
While riding, you're in the vicinity of the majestic Mourne Mountains. Notable attractions include Slieve Bearnagh, known as the "Gapped Mountain," and the highest peak in Northern Ireland, the Summit of Slieve Donard. You can also explore Tollymore Forest Park and the dramatic mountain pass of Hare's Gap.
The routes in Brackenagh East Upper are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Over 80 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the rugged peaks and diverse forest paths.
Yes, Tollymore Forest Park is a significant feature in the region. The Bannanstown Road Climb – Tollymore Forest Park loop from Bryansford is a popular moderate route that features significant elevation gain through the park, offering a diverse forest environment for exploration.
While not all mountain bike trails directly follow the Mourne Wall, the wall itself is a significant landmark traversing several peaks in the Mourne Mountains, which form the backdrop for many of these routes. You can find viewpoints of the Mourne Wall within the broader area.
The Mourne Mountains region, including Brackenagh East Upper, offers beautiful scenery year-round. However, for mountain biking, spring and autumn generally provide more comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. Be aware that the landscape can feature deep-red bracken in winter, adding a characteristic glow, but conditions may be more challenging.


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