4.8
(44)
355
hikers
02:47
9.60km
240m
Hiking
The Scenic Trail provides a moderate hiking experience through diverse landscapes. You will cover 6.0 miles (9.6 km) and gain 776 feet (237 metres) in elevation, typically taking about 2 hours and 46 minutes to complete. As you hike, you can expect to see vibrant wildflowers and tall trees, especially…
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
354 m
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
3.22 km
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
9.60 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
8.03 km
1.29 km
274 m
Surfaces
9.30 km
292 m
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Elevation
Highest point (290 m)
Lowest point (100 m)
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Wednesday 6 May
14°C
5°C
33 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 21.0 km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
This route was planned by komoot.
The trail conveniently starts at the Glenariff Forest Park — Viewpoint and Trailhead. There is parking available within Glenariff Forest Park, which serves as the primary access point for this route and other trails in the park.
Rated as moderate, this trail is suitable for hikers with a reasonable level of fitness. While it's not overly difficult, it does involve some elevation gain (around 237 meters) and covers nearly 10 kilometers, so it's a good step up for those comfortable with shorter, easier walks.
Generally, dogs are welcome in Glenariff Forest Park, but they must be kept on a lead at all times to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other visitors. Please clean up after your dog.
The trail can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and autumn offer particularly beautiful scenery with vibrant foliage or blooming wildflowers. Summer provides longer daylight hours, while winter can be picturesque, though some sections might be muddy or slippery. Always check local weather conditions before you go.
Yes, there is typically an entrance fee for vehicles entering Glenariff Forest Park. This fee contributes to the maintenance of the park's facilities and trails. No specific hiking permits are usually required for the trails themselves once inside the park.
The terrain is varied, typical of a forest park trail. You can expect well-maintained paths, but also some uneven surfaces, potential tree roots, and possibly muddy sections, especially after rain. The route includes some gradual ascents and descents.
As its name suggests, the trail offers stunning scenery. You'll experience lush forest landscapes, river views, and potentially panoramic vistas from elevated points. Key highlights include the Glenariff Forest Park — Viewpoint and Trailhead and the picturesque Bridge Over Inver River.
Yes, this route largely follows the official Scenic Trail (97% of the route) and also intersects with sections of the Moyle Way, Inver Trail, Waterfall Trail, Viewpoint Trail, and Rainbow Trail within Glenariff Forest Park, offering opportunities to explore further.
The route is approximately 9.6 kilometers long and generally takes around 2 hours and 47 minutes to complete at a moderate hiking pace. This duration can vary depending on your speed, breaks, and how much time you spend enjoying the viewpoints.
Given the moderate difficulty and varied terrain, wear comfortable hiking boots with good ankle support. Dress in layers suitable for the weather, and bring a waterproof jacket. Carry enough water, snacks, a map or GPS device (like the komoot app), and a first-aid kit.
This specific komoot route for the Scenic Trail is designed as a loop, bringing you back to your starting point at the Glenariff Forest Park — Viewpoint and Trailhead.
Glenariff Forest Park is a scenic nature park in County Antrim. We opted for the waterfall tour, which includes a few meters of altitude and great views. The weather was quite changeable, but as quickly as the rain came, it was gone again. At the end of the tour we had a short refreshment in the nice café before we headed back towards the Causeway Coastal Route. The drive to Ballycastle along the coast was adventurous due to the narrow road but crowned with breathtaking views.