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Mountain biking around Ballyhowne offers routes through varied terrain, characterized by forests and reservoirs. The landscape provides opportunities for both easy and moderate rides. Riders can explore areas like Woodburn Forest and the vicinity of Woodburn Reservoir. The region's trails are suitable for those looking for accessible outdoor experiences.
Last updated: May 13, 2026
4
riders
15.9km
01:21
220m
210m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
31.3km
02:23
370m
370m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

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26.1km
01:54
290m
290m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Woodburn Forest is a picturesque woodland area west of Carrickfergus, renowned for its diverse flora and fauna. Popular among hikers, it offers scenic trails, serene reservoirs, and abundant wildlife.
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Hard packed gravel through Woodburn. Suitable and fun for all bike types.
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Take your rubbish home as there are no bins around any of the dams only in the carpark
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Woodburn Reservoir is a lovely waterbody surrounded by forested hills. The reservoir provides important habitats for diverse wildlife and plants such as rare mosses, grasses and damselflies. It's a lovely place to stop off with a picnic on a bike trip and admire the views.
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Brilliant views across Carrickfergus to the Left to Belfast to the right and across Belfast Lough to Holywood, Crawfordsburn and Bangor. Good place for a sunset spin, even better for a sunrise spin.
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The mountain bike trails around Ballyhowne primarily feature varied terrain, including forest paths and routes alongside reservoirs. You'll find opportunities to explore areas like Woodburn Forest and the vicinity of Woodburn Reservoir.
Yes, Ballyhowne offers several easy mountain bike trails. For instance, the Woodburn Reservoir – Woodburn Forest loop from Greenisland is an easy 9.9-mile (15.9 km) route, and the Woodburn Forest – Woodburn Reservoir loop from Lough Mourne Reservoir is another easy option at 16.2 miles (26.1 km).
Currently, the available mountain bike routes around Ballyhowne are categorized as easy or moderate. There are no trails specifically rated as difficult for advanced riders in this guide.
Trail lengths vary, but you can expect routes ranging from approximately 9.9 miles (15.9 km) to 16.2 miles (26.1 km). An easy 9.9-mile route might take around 1 hour 21 minutes, while a longer 16.2-mile trail could take about 1 hour 54 minutes to complete.
Yes, many of the mountain bike trails in Ballyhowne are designed as loops. Examples include the Woodburn Reservoir – Woodburn Forest loop from Greenisland and the Woodburn Forest – Woodburn Reservoir loop from Lough Mourne Reservoir, allowing you to start and finish at the same point.
The trails often pass through scenic forest areas and alongside reservoirs, offering pleasant views of the natural landscape. The routes around Woodburn Forest and Woodburn Reservoir are particularly noted for their natural beauty.
Beyond the trails, you can explore several interesting sites. Natural monuments like Cave Hill and Napoleon's Nose are nearby. For cultural attractions, consider visiting Titanic Belfast or the Albert Memorial Clock.
Given the prevalence of easy and moderate trails through forests and along reservoirs, Ballyhowne can be a suitable destination for families looking for accessible outdoor experiences on two wheels.
While mountain biking can be enjoyed year-round, spring and autumn often offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer provides longer daylight hours, and winter rides are possible, though conditions may be wetter.
The region's trails, particularly those through Woodburn Forest and around Woodburn Reservoir, are well-regarded by local mountain bikers. While not necessarily 'hidden,' they offer a genuine experience of the area's natural beauty away from more crowded spots.
Mountain bikers who have explored Ballyhowne with komoot often appreciate the varied terrain, the peaceful forest paths, and the scenic routes alongside the reservoirs. The accessibility of both easy and moderate options is also frequently highlighted.


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