The best walks and hikes around Glen Upper

Yes, there are several family-friendly options. The An Creagán Biodiversity Trail is an excellent choice, as it's a relatively flat 3.5-mile (5.7 km) walk with minimal elevation, making it accessible for most ages and abilities.

Dogs are generally welcome in Gortin Glen Forest Park and on many of the surrounding trails, but they should be kept on a leash, especially in areas where livestock may be present. Always be prepared to clean up after your pet to help keep the trails beautiful for everyone.

Most of the popular routes in the area are loops, which means you can start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. For a rewarding loop with some elevation, consider the Gravel Path to Mullaghcarn – Darach the Guardian Sculpture loop from Gortin. It offers a great mix of forest paths and mountain scenery.

Gortin Glen Forest Park, the starting point for many hikes, has a main car park. It's recommended to arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, as it can get busy. For other trailheads, parking may be more limited to small lay-bys on the roadside.

For expansive views over the Sperrin Mountains, the hike to the summit of Mullaghcarn is hard to beat. The Mullaghcarn from Glenpark Road — Sperrins route provides a direct path to the top where you'll be rewarded with panoramic vistas on a clear day.

The terrain varies significantly. You'll find well-maintained gravel paths in Gortin Glen Forest Park, while higher routes in the Sperrins feature more rugged and uneven open hillside tracks. Proper hiking footwear with good grip is recommended for all but the easiest paths.

There are over a dozen marked trails and routes to explore in the immediate Glen Upper area. These range from easy, short walks suitable for all abilities to more challenging mountain hikes.

The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 stars. Hikers often praise the well-marked paths within Gortin Glen Forest Park and the stunning, wide-open views from the summit of Mullaghcarn.

While the main trails around Gortin Glen are more focused on forest and mountain scenery, you can find beautiful waterfalls in the wider region. The Clare Glens area is a local favorite, known for its lush forest and rushing waterfalls along the river.

Absolutely. The network of forest roads and gravel paths in Gortin Glen Forest Park is ideal for trail running. The Hiking loop from Gortin is a good example of a shorter route with moderate elevation that is also popular with runners.

The weather can change quickly in the mountains. It's essential to bring waterproof clothing, even if the forecast is good. Also pack sturdy hiking boots, extra layers, water, snacks, and a fully charged phone. A map and compass are also wise additions for any mountain routes.