Best waterfall hiking trails in Northern Ireland
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Best waterfall hiking trails in Northern Ireland

If the calming sound of cascading water fills your soul with joy, you're in for a treat. These waterfall trails will have you chasing misty rainbows and cooling off by nature's finest showers.

Here are some great trails to explore in Northern Ireland.

Most popular trails

1

Easy

Tollymore Forest Park – Mountain and Drinns Trail

County Down, Northern Ireland · star 5.0 (5) · 13.9 km · Est. 3 hrs 25 min

2

Easy

Tollymore Forest Park – River Trail

County Down, Northern Ireland · star 0.0 (0) · 5.3 km · Est. 1 hrs 15 min

3

Easy

Tollymore Forest Mountain Trail

County Down, Northern Ireland · star 5.0 (1) · 9.2 km · Est. 2 hrs 15 min

4

Medium

Central Mournes

County Down, Northern Ireland · star 0.0 (0) · 15.9 km · Est. 4 hrs 21 min

5

Easy

Glenariff Forest Park - Scenic Trail

County Antrim, Northern Ireland · star 5.0 (6) · 8.8 km · Est. 2 hrs 10 min

6

Easy

Belmore Forest – Pollnagollum Cave Walk

County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland · star 0.0 (0) · 5.9 km · Est. 1 hrs 28 min

7

Difficult

Redburn Country Park

County Down, Northern Ireland · star 5.0 (1) · 4.9 km · Est. 1 hrs 19 min

8

Medium

Glenariff Nature Reserve Waterfalls Walk

County Antrim, Northern Ireland · star 0.0 (0) · 3.0 km · Est. 49 min

9

Easy

Carntogher Way – Slí An Chairn

County Londonderry, Northern Ireland · star 5.0 (1) · 10.1 km · Est. 2 hrs 32 min

10

Medium

Glenariff Forest Park - Rainbow Trail

County Antrim, Northern Ireland · star 0.0 (0) · 3.7 km · Est. 1 hrs 0 min

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Reviews for waterfall hiking trails in Northern Ireland

Magzer Flood avatar

Tollymore Forest Park – Mountain and Drinns Trail

Maura Flood · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Gorgeous walk in forest, by the river and a lake. Fabulous views of the Mournes, Newcastle, the sea and surrounding villages.

No reviews available for Tollymore Forest Park – River Trail.

James Hughes avatar

Tollymore Forest Mountain Trail

James Hughes · reviewed 3 months ago

star star star star star

No reviews available for Central Mournes.

Ron Headrest avatar

Glenariff Forest Park - Scenic Trail

Ron Headrest · reviewed 12 months ago

star star star star star

Lovely mix of forest, waterfalls, and expansive views from top of escarpment. Bonus points for coffee and toasties at the park café at end of walk.

Frequently asked questions for hiking trails 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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