Search a hike or location

search
Best difficult hikes in County Antrim
Share:

Best difficult hikes in County Antrim

Got your game face on? These difficult hikes are designed for hikers who are looking for a serious adventure.

Here are some great hikes to explore in County Antrim.

Most popular hikes

1

Difficult

North Antrim Cliff Path – Dunseverick to Giant’s Causeway

County Antrim, Northern Ireland · star 4.8 (6) · 7.6 km · Est. 2 hrs 17 min

2

Difficult

Ronan’s Way - Red Loop

County Antrim, Northern Ireland · star 4.0 (1) · 6.5 km · Est. 1 hrs 54 min

3

Difficult

Carmoney Hill

County Antrim, Northern Ireland · star 4.0 (1) · 6.3 km · Est. 1 hrs 54 min

4

Difficult

Dunluce Castle

County Antrim, Northern Ireland · star N/A (0) · 444 m · Est. 9 min

5

Difficult

Ronan’s Way - Yellow Loop

County Antrim, Northern Ireland · star N/A (0) · 1.8 km · Est. 33 min

6

Difficult

Carnmoney Hill

County Antrim, Northern Ireland · star 4.0 (1) · 1.9 km · Est. 35 min

SHOW MORE HIKES

Reviews for difficult hikes in County Antrim

Kelsey Henry avatar

North Antrim Cliff Path – Dunseverick to Giant’s Causeway

Kels01 · reviewed 9 months ago

star star star star star

William White avatar

Ronan’s Way - Red Loop

Hiiker Bill · reviewed almost 4 years ago

star star star star star

it is a work in progress. I wore my hiking shoes and found the top wet and boggy. wellies would be better here. can also be breezy on top. Great views. and a shorter fairy for kids.

Thomas Shafe avatar

Carmoney Hill

Tommy · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

A nice but strenuous walk. Great 360 degree views on a clear day.

No reviews available for Dunluce Castle.

No reviews available for Ronan’s Way - Yellow Loop.

Frequently asked questions for hikes in County Antrim

What is the climate like for hiking in Northern Ireland?

Northern Ireland's climate is temperate, with relatively mild winters and cool summers, making it possible to hike all year round. However, weather changes rapidly, with rain being a frequent occurrence, so waterproof gear and layered clothing are advisable. Spring and autumn are generally less crowded and offer delightful scenery, while winter hiking can be challenging due to shorter daylight hours and icy paths.
Summers are cooler than much of mainland UK, with temperatures averaging around 15-20°C (59-68°F), and providing longer daylight hours, ideal for lengthy hikes. Despite this, summer's unpredictability can lead to sudden rain showers, requiring hikers to be prepared for changing conditions.
The best time for hiking in Northern Ireland often falls between April and October, encompassing late spring, summer, and early autumn. This period offers the most stable weather conditions and picturesque views. Hikers can enjoy locations like the Mourne Mountains, the Giant's Causeway, and the Glenariff Forest Park during these months. For more detailed weather information, check the Met Office (https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/).

Do I need a permit to hike in Northern Ireland?

In Northern Ireland, the majority of hiking trails are open and free to the public without a permit. For specific areas or events, such as organised group hikes, you might need permission from the landowner or the relevant local authority. For assistance, contact Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland (https://www.outdoorrecreationni.com/).

Is wild camping allowed in Northern Ireland?

Wild camping in Northern Ireland is not strictly legal without the landowner's permission. However, it's often tolerated in higher land and mountain areas, provided campers follow "leave no trace" principles. If in doubt, contact Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland (https://www.outdoorrecreationni.com/) for advice.

Are there mountain rescue services in Northern Ireland?

In case of emergencies while hiking in Northern Ireland, you should contact the police by dialling 999 or 112 and ask for Mountain Rescue. They work with the PSNI to provide rescue services. More information is available at the Mountain Rescue Ireland website https://nimrt.org/

Are there dangerous plants in Northern Ireland?

Northern Ireland's hiking trails are graced with an array of flora, from wildflowers to ancient woodlands. Notable are the bluebells in spring, the purple heather on the mountains in late summer, and the oak and ash trees in forests. For more information, refer to the Woodland Trust (https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/).

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Northern Ireland?

While hiking in Northern Ireland, you may encounter wildlife such as red deer, foxes, and badgers. The summer months bring out insects like midges, especially near water. Always maintain a safe distance from wildlife and consider insect repellent. For more, visit the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/).

More hikes in County Antrim

by difficulty

by type

by activity