The best MTB trails around Ballymoney

The mountain bike trails around Ballymoney feature diverse landscapes, including rolling hills, forest paths, and scenic viewpoints. You'll encounter country lanes, quiet roads, and dedicated forest trails, with varied terrain and elevation changes. The region is also characterized by river valleys, ancient woodlands, and proximity to the dramatic coastline.

While the specific routes highlighted in this guide are rated moderate to difficult, Ballymoney and the wider Causeway Coast and Glens area offer options for various skill levels. For traffic-free cycling suitable for all ages, Riverside Park in Ballymoney provides accessible paths. Additionally, regional centers like Garvagh Forest have family-friendly tracks alongside more challenging routes.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the region offers several demanding routes. One such option is the Drumkeeragh Forest – Castlewellan Lake loop from Dromore Cathedral of Christ the Redeemer, a difficult 65.9 km path with over 1000 meters of elevation gain. Another is the Donard Park Waterfall – Lackan Road loop from Banbridge, which is 86.1 km long and also rated difficult.

Yes, several circular routes are available. The Gosford Castle & Park loop from Banbridge is a moderate 47.2 km circular trail. Locally, the Ballymoney Cycle Route is a 25.4-mile loop utilizing country lanes, and 'The Bush' is another circular route starting from the Joey Dunlop Leisure Centre that passes the iconic Dark Hedges.

The region is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. While riding, you might encounter ancient raths, mottes, standing stones, and glimpses of the Maine and Bush River Valleys. The famous Dark Hedges is also along one of the local cycling routes. Further afield, the Causeway Coastal Route offers world-renowned attractions like the Giant's Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, and Dunluce Castle.

Absolutely. Ballymoney serves as a gateway to several excellent mountain biking centers. Garvagh Forest offers a variety of routes, while Binevenagh Mountain provides extensive trails through woodlands and open moorland. Glenariff Forest Park also boasts mountain biking trails that traverse ancient woodlands and pass picturesque waterfalls.

The diverse landscapes of Ballymoney and the Causeway Coast and Glens region can be enjoyed throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn often offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. However, it's always advisable to check local weather conditions, especially during winter, as trails can become wet and muddy.

Mountain bikers exploring the Ballymoney area often praise the varied terrain, from rolling hills and forest paths to scenic viewpoints. The region's ability to serve as a base for accessing wider mountain biking opportunities within the Causeway Coast and Glens area, offering both local routes and more challenging regional hubs, is also highly valued.

Yes, the area around Ballymoney is dotted with interesting sites. You can find historical landmarks such as Scarva Village, Moyallan Pillbox, Loughbrickland Crannóg, and Dromore Viaduct. These offer glimpses into the region's rich history and can be explored as part of your biking adventure.

This guide highlights a selection of mountain bike trails around Ballymoney, featuring 3 distinct routes that showcase the region's diverse terrain and beauty. These include options ranging from moderate to difficult, catering to different skill levels.

Yes, if you're looking for trails with waterfalls, Glenariff Forest Park, located within the wider Causeway Coast and Glens region accessible from Ballymoney, boasts mountain biking trails that traverse ancient woodlands and pass picturesque waterfalls. Additionally, the Donard Park Waterfall – Lackan Road loop from Banbridge specifically includes a waterfall as a feature.