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Best difficult hikes in Northern Ireland
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Best difficult hikes in Northern Ireland

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 Northern Ireland.

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

Slieve Meelbeg and Slieve Bearnagh Loop via Mourne Way

County Down, Northern Ireland · star 5.0 (2) · 11.5 km · Est. 3 hrs 33 min

3

Difficult

Slieve Commedagh - Chimney Rock Mountain Loop

County Down, Northern Ireland · star 5.0 (1) · 20.1 km · Est. 5 hrs 33 min

4

Difficult

Eagle Mountain and Shanlieve Walk

County Down, Northern Ireland · star N/A (0) · 9.5 km · Est. 3 hrs 13 min

5

Difficult

Slievelamagan and Cove Mountain Loop from Ulster

County Down, Northern Ireland · star 3.0 (1) · 16.5 km · Est. 4 hrs 30 min

6

Difficult

The Mournes Reservoir Views

County Down, Northern Ireland · star N/A (0) · 14.4 km · Est. 4 hrs 36 min

7

Difficult

Silent Valley Mountain Park to Millstone Mountain Walk

County Down, Northern Ireland · star N/A (0) · 32.8 km · Est. 2 days

8

Difficult

Crossone and Millstone Loop from Newcastle

County Down, Northern Ireland · star 5.0 (4) · 6.8 km · Est. 2 hrs 16 min

9

Difficult

Ronan’s Way - Red Loop

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

10

Difficult

Chimney Rock and Cove Mountain Loop from Glasdrumman

County Down, Northern Ireland · star N/A (0) · 20.2 km · Est. 5 hrs 59 min

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Reviews for difficult hikes in Northern Ireland

Kelsey Henry avatar

North Antrim Cliff Path – Dunseverick to Giant’s Causeway

Kels01 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Caroline Erwin avatar

Slieve Meelbeg and Slieve Bearnagh Loop via Mourne Way

Cerwin · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Richard Montgomery avatar

Slieve Commedagh - Chimney Rock Mountain Loop

DICKMONTY · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

No reviews available for Eagle Mountain and Shanlieve Walk.

Marcus Davies avatar

Slievelamagan and Cove Mountain Loop from Ulster

Numenorean · reviewed 9 months ago

star star star star star

The last quarter of this trail, between the Brandy Pad and the Head Road is non existent, making for wading through knee high grass an Heather. The descent is treacherous due to the lack of trail. Unless this is what you are looking for, I would avoid. Followed the trail on a Garmin Instinct 2

Frequently asked questions for hikes in Northern Ireland

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/).

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